Der Geizige Ending Explained: What Really Happened?

Der Geizige Ending Explained: Paris in the 17th century: Harpagon is an old miser. Directed by Gerhard Klingenberg, this 1990 comedy film stars Harald Juhnke (Harpagon), alongside Daniela Strietzel as Élise, Volker Brandt as Valère, Margret Homeyer as Frosine. With a 9/10 audience rating, the ending has been widely praised.

What Happens at the End of Der Geizige?

Paris in the 17th century: Harpagon is an old miser. He is constantly obsessed with the fear that someone will steal his money box buried in the garden. The old man, who is completely indifferent to his children's wishes, wants to marry his daughter Élise to an unattractive old man without a dowry. His son Cléante is to marry a rich widow, whose death he hopes will come soon so that he can inherit her fortune. For himself, however, the miser has chosen a young girl named Mariane, with whom his son is in love. Confusion ensues, and when Harpagon's beloved money box is stolen, the situation reaches boiling point...

Gerhard Klingenberg's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Harald Juhnke (Harpagon)'s journey. He is constantly obsessed with the fear that someone will steal his money box buried in the garden.

How Does Harald Juhnke (Harpagon)'s Story End?

Harald Juhnke: Harald Juhnke's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with Gerhard Klingenberg delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's full runtime.
Daniela Strietzel (Élise): Daniela Strietzel's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
Volker Brandt (Valère): Volker Brandt's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Der Geizige Mean?

Der Geizige concludes with Gerhard Klingenberg reinforcing the comedy themes established throughout the film. The final moments with Harald Juhnke leave a lasting impression — the ending is both a resolution and a statement about the story's central questions.