Busman's Honeymoon Ending Explained: When Lord Peter Wimsey marries Harriet Vane, a crime author, they both promise to give up crime for good. Directed by Arthur B. Woods, this 1940 mystery film stars Robert Montgomery (Lord Peter Wimsey), alongside Constance Cummings as Harriet Vane, Leslie Banks as Inspector Kirk, Seymour Hicks as Mervyn Bunter (as Sir Seymour Hicks). With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Busman's Honeymoon?

When Lord Peter Wimsey marries Harriet Vane, a crime author, they both promise to give up crime for good. As a wedding present, Peter purchases the old house where Harriet grew up, but when they try to move in the previous owner is nowhere to be found, until they start to clean the house and find his body in the cellar...

Arthur B. Woods's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Robert Montgomery (Lord Peter Wimsey)'s journey. As a wedding present, Peter purchases the old house where Harriet grew up, but when they try to move in the previous owner is nowhere to be found, until they start to clean the house and find his body in the cellar.

How Does Robert Montgomery (Lord Peter Wimsey)'s Story End?

  • Robert Montgomery: Robert Montgomery's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Constance Cummings (Harriet Vane): Constance Cummings's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Leslie Banks (Inspector Kirk): Leslie Banks's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Busman's Honeymoon Mean?

Busman's Honeymoon's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Robert Montgomery may feel rushed. Arthur B. Woods's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.