Devil in the Flesh Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Devil in the Flesh.
Devil in the Flesh Ending Explained: In France during World War I, Marthe waits for her husband, Jacques, while he fights on the front lines. Directed by Claude Autant-Lara, this 1947 drama film stars Micheline Presle (Marthe Grangier), alongside Gérard Philipe as François Jaubert, Denise Grey as Madame Grangier, Jean Debucourt as Edouard Jaubert. With a 6.2/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Devil in the Flesh?
In France during World War I, Marthe waits for her husband, Jacques, while he fights on the front lines. Marthe then begins a tempestuous affair with 17-year-old François, with whom she had a dalliance before marrying Jacques. Jealous François struggles with the fact that Marthe is married, while she tries to prove her devotion to her young, hotheaded lover. Things become even more complex when Marthe becomes pregnant with Jacques' baby.
Claude Autant-Lara's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Micheline Presle (Marthe Grangier)'s journey. Marthe then begins a tempestuous affair with 17-year-old François, with whom she had a dalliance before marrying Jacques.
How Does Micheline Presle (Marthe Grangier)'s Story End?
- Micheline Presle: Micheline Presle's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Gérard Philipe (François Jaubert): Gérard Philipe's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Denise Grey (Madame Grangier): Denise Grey's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Devil in the Flesh Mean?
Devil in the Flesh's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Micheline Presle may feel rushed. Claude Autant-Lara's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.