Certain Women Ending Explained: Three strong-willed women strive to forge their own paths amidst the wide-open plains of the American Northwest: a lawyer forced to subdue a troubled client; a wife and mother whose plans to construct her dream home reveal fissures in her marriage; and a lonely ranch hand who forms an ambiguous bond with a young law student. Directed by Kelly Reichardt, this 2016 drama film stars Laura Dern (Laura), alongside Kristen Stewart as Elizabeth Travis, Michelle Williams as Gina, Lily Gladstone as The Rancher. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Certain Women?

Three strong-willed women strive to forge their own paths amidst the wide-open plains of the American Northwest: a lawyer forced to subdue a troubled client; a wife and mother whose plans to construct her dream home reveal fissures in her marriage; and a lonely ranch hand who forms an ambiguous bond with a young law student.

How Does Laura Dern (Laura)'s Story End?

  • Laura Dern: Laura Dern's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Kristen Stewart (Elizabeth Travis): Kristen Stewart's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Michelle Williams (Gina): Michelle Williams's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Certain Women Mean?

Certain Women's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Laura Dern may feel rushed. Kelly Reichardt's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.