Prepare for your heart to break, as we delve into the full explanation of the ending of Andrew Haigh's All of Us Strangers. Featuring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, the film has received rave reviews and fans are eagerly anticipating its release.
Our five-star review raved about the movie, calling it one of the year's greatest triumphs. Watching it means facing forgotten demons and coming out changed on the other side. Andrew Scott leads an emotional cinematic revolution that shouldn't be missed. Now playing in theaters across the US, here's a spoiler-filled explanation of the ending of All of Us Strangers.
All of Us Strangers ending explained: Adam relives his past
Adam, portrayed by Andrew Scott, is a solitary screenwriter residing in a run-down apartment building in London. His days are mostly spent in isolation as he diligently works on a screenplay centered around his own childhood. One fateful day, a man named Harry, played by Paul Mescal, appears at his door, claiming to have seen him around the premises. Despite Harry's request to join him for a drink, Adam declines and shuts the door on him. Seeking inspiration for his writing, Adam embarks on a journey back to his childhood home – a place he has not visited in nearly three decades.
After exploring the local area, a man encounters Adam wandering in a field and is invited to visit the local newsagents. Upon bringing Adam home, it is revealed that the man is actually Adam’s Dad (Jamie Bell) and his Mum (Claire Foy) warmly welcomes him into their childhood home. The trio shares dinner together as they catch up on Adam’s life. Adam leaves, but is asked by his Mom to visit again.
Later, Adam sees Harry in the building and apologizes for not inviting him in sooner. Harry returns to Adam’s place, and the two begin an intimate relationship. Adam confides in Harry about his script and the fact that his parents passed away when he was a child. He then returns to his childhood home and has a heartfelt conversation with his Mom about his identity and the changing world.
Relationships get complicated
Searchlight Pictures
Adam and Harry's bond deepens as they spend more time together at Adam's flat. Adam opens up about being bullied in his childhood and expresses regret for not being able to make amends with his late parents. One night, while out at a club, Adam becomes disoriented and experiences a vivid dream in which he celebrates Christmas with his parents. He pleads with them to stay home, knowing that it is the night of their fatal car accident.
One final twist awaits
Startled awake, Harry recounts taking Adam home when he was in distress and calling out for his parents. Adam, in turn, attempts to bring Harry to his childhood home to meet his parents, only to find no one answering the door. Despite Adam seeing his parents’ reflections in the window, Harry is unsettled and decides to leave. Upon waking up in his childhood home, Adam is informed by his parents that the visits will soon come to an end as they believe it is having a negative impact on his life.
Searchlight Pictures
Struggling to deal with the prospect of separation once more, the conclusion of All of Us Strangers depicts Adam pleading for just one more day with his parents, as they head to a shopping center that Adam cherished in his youth. Seated at a diner, Adam orders their meals before earnestly asking his parents not to leave him again. They reassure him that their visits were never meant to be permanent and express their pride in the person Adam has become. Gradually, both Mom and Dad fade away, mirroring the sequence and afflictions of the car accident.
Adam returns to the block of flats in search of Harry, venturing into his apartment for the first time. There, he discovers Harry's lifeless body in the bedroom, having passed away the same night Adam came knocking. To Adam's surprise, Harry's ghost then appears behind him, expressing regret for being found in such a state. Adam brings Harry's spirit back to his own apartment, where he lies beside him, vowing to keep him safe from the outside world. As Frankie Goes To Hollywood's The Power of Love serenades them, the scene zooms out to reveal the pair as a single star in an endless galaxy.
All of Us Strangers is currently showing in cinemas. Read our review and catch up on the latest TV & Movies news here.
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of Andrew Haigh's work, I eagerly awaited the conclusion of "All of Us Strangers," and I must say, it left me profoundly moved and contemplative. The film's exploration of Adam's haunting past and the complexities of his relationships is masterfully executed, culminating in an unexpected and emotionally charged ending.
The performances by Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal are nothing short of exceptional. Scott brings depth and vulnerability to the character of Adam, while Mescal's portrayal of Harry adds a layer of intrigue and emotional connection. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, making their relationship feel authentic and believable.