Elliott's Suicide Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Elliott's Suicide.
Elliott's Suicide Ending Explained: A homage to the late American singer-songwriter Elliott Smith, Elliott’s Suicide is a sentimental 15 minute tribute, lacking Anger’s usual irony for obvious reasons. Directed by Kenneth Anger, this 2007 documentary film stars Elliott Smith (Self (archive footage)). Rated 0/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Elliott's Suicide?
A homage to the late American singer-songwriter Elliott Smith, Elliott’s Suicide is a sentimental 15 minute tribute, lacking Anger’s usual irony for obvious reasons. The film begins with shots of friends’ and fans’ last words written on Smith’s memorial on Sunset Boulevard, then to footage of a Macy’s parade, focusing closely on the oddly outfitted participants, some in renaissance attire, cowboys with lassos, and beauty queens. The film is scored with Smith’s music, resulting in a melancholy effect, especially in the segment that follows Smith through the woods and films him as he digs up a guitar, then plays a song. This footage is repeated in the end of the film, but in a negative reversal print, suggesting pretty damn clearly that the subject matter has moved beyond the veil.
Kenneth Anger's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Elliott Smith (Self (archive footage))'s journey. The film begins with shots of friends’ and fans’ last words written on Smith’s memorial on Sunset Boulevard, then to footage of a Macy’s parade, focusing closely on the oddly outfitted participants, some in renaissance attire, cowboys with lassos, and beauty queens.
How Does Elliott Smith (Self (archive footage))'s Story End?
- Elliott Smith: Elliott Smith's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
What Does the Ending of Elliott's Suicide Mean?
The ending of Elliott's Suicide brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Elliott Smith's story may not satisfy all audiences.