The Affair Ending Explained: As a young woman, Oriko condemned her widowed mother for openly pursuing relationships with younger men. Directed by Yoshishige Yoshida, this 1967 drama film stars Mariko Okada (Oriko), alongside Yoshie Minami as Oriko's Mother, Tadahiko Sugano as Furuhata, Shigako Shimegi as Furuhata's Sister. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of The Affair?

As a young woman, Oriko condemned her widowed mother for openly pursuing relationships with younger men. After her mother passes away, she finds herself in an unhappy, loveless marriage and begins to understand her mother’s actions.

Yoshishige Yoshida's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Mariko Okada (Oriko)'s journey. After her mother passes away, she finds herself in an unhappy, loveless marriage and begins to understand her mother’s actions.

How Does Mariko Okada (Oriko)'s Story End?

  • Mariko Okada: Mariko Okada's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Yoshie Minami (Oriko's Mother): Yoshie Minami's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Tadahiko Sugano (Furuhata): Tadahiko Sugano's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Affair Mean?

The Affair's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Mariko Okada may feel rushed. Yoshishige Yoshida's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.