Long Good Thursday Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of Long Good Thursday?

While on a shopping trip, Grump smells Saimi, a woman who smells just right and throws the whole man in a state of confusion. The Grump would not have believed that his chest could still feel like a young boy's. The Grump has to admit that he enjoys Saimi’s company. The words, looks, and touch of another awaken long-forgotten feelings. The Grump’s sons are incredulous and downright jealous of their father, and they don’t want to trust Saimi’s sincerity… could she be after the inheritance? Family meetings, misunderstandings, moonlight swims, and sleepless nights. Indeed, Cupid's arrow can pierce even an old man's flannel shirt.

Mika Kaurismäki's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Heikki Kinnunen (The Grump)'s journey. The Grump would not have believed that his chest could still feel like a young boy's.

As part of the The Grump Collection, the ending carries additional weight for fans following the franchise.

How Does Heikki Kinnunen (The Grump)'s Story End?

• Heikki Kinnunen: Heikki Kinnunen's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Jaana Saarinen (Saimi): Jaana Saarinen's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Iikka Forss (Hessu): Iikka Forss's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Long Good Thursday Mean?

Long Good Thursday's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Heikki Kinnunen may feel rushed. Mika Kaurismäki's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.