Notoriety Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Notoriety.
Notoriety Ending Explained: Pigeon Deering, a girl of the tenements, while watching a society ball through a window, witnesses a murder and is arrested. Directed by William Nigh, this 1922 drama film stars Maurine Powers ('Pigeon' Deering), alongside Mary Alden as Ann Boland, Rod La Rocque as Arthur Beal, George Hackathorne as Batty. With a 10/10 audience rating, the ending has been widely praised.
What Happens at the End of Notoriety?
Pigeon Deering, a girl of the tenements, while watching a society ball through a window, witnesses a murder and is arrested. Because she craves notoriety, Pigeon confesses to the crime. During her trial, attorney Arthur Beal exposes the murderer and urges her not to accept any offer from theatrical producers hoping to cash in on her "fame." When Pigeon rejects his advice, Arthur fakes an offer, which she accepts, and has her brought to his country farm for "rehearsals." An attack by a hired man, who assumes from her publicity that she is susceptible, finally convinces Pigeon of her mistake, and she accepts Arthur's proposal of marriage.
William Nigh's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Maurine Powers ('Pigeon' Deering)'s journey. Because she craves notoriety, Pigeon confesses to the crime.
How Does Maurine Powers ('Pigeon' Deering)'s Story End?
- Maurine Powers: Maurine Powers's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with William Nigh delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 20m runtime.
- Mary Alden (Ann Boland): Mary Alden's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Rod La Rocque (Arthur Beal): Rod La Rocque's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Notoriety Mean?
Notoriety concludes with William Nigh reinforcing the drama themes established throughout the film. The final moments with Maurine Powers leave a lasting impression — the ending is both a resolution and a statement about the story's central questions.