Not Only But Always Ending Explained: What Really Happened?

Not Only But Always Ending Explained: The story of the working and personal relationship between the comedians Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, a hugely popular duo in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s. Directed by Terry Johnson, this 2004 drama film stars Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook), alongside Aidan McArdle as Dudley Moore, Jodie Rimmer as Wendy Snowden, Camilla Power as Judy Huxtable. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Not Only But Always?

The story of the working and personal relationship between the comedians Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, a hugely popular duo in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s. Focusing primarily on Cook, the film traces the pair from their first meeting through their career as part of the Beyond the Fringe review, their television series Not Only... But Also and various other projects before their later estrangement as Moore became a successful Hollywood film star and Cook remained in the UK.

Terry Johnson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook)'s journey. Focusing primarily on Cook, the film traces the pair from their first meeting through their career as part of the Beyond the Fringe review, their television series Not Only.

How Does Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook)'s Story End?

Rhys Ifans: Rhys Ifans's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
Aidan McArdle (Dudley Moore): Aidan McArdle's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
Jodie Rimmer (Wendy Snowden): Jodie Rimmer's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Not Only But Always Mean?

Not Only But Always's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Rhys Ifans may feel rushed. Terry Johnson's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.