The April Fools Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The April Fools.
The April Fools Ending Explained: Newly-promoted if none too happily married Howard Brubaker leaves a rowdy company party early with the stunning Catherine, whom it turns out is herself unhappily married — to the boss. Directed by Stuart Rosenberg, this 1969 drama film stars Jack Lemmon (Howard Brubaker), alongside Catherine Deneuve as Catherine Gunther, Peter Lawford as Ted Gunther, Jack Weston as Potter Shrader. Rated 5.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The April Fools?
Newly-promoted if none too happily married Howard Brubaker leaves a rowdy company party early with the stunning Catherine, whom it turns out is herself unhappily married — to the boss. They spend an innocent night in New York becoming more and more attracted to each other, so that when Catherine announces she intends to leave her husband and return to Paris, Howard asks to go along too.
Stuart Rosenberg's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Jack Lemmon (Howard Brubaker)'s journey. They spend an innocent night in New York becoming more and more attracted to each other, so that when Catherine announces she intends to leave her husband and return to Paris, Howard asks to go along too.
How Does Jack Lemmon (Howard Brubaker)'s Story End?
- Jack Lemmon: Jack Lemmon's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Catherine Deneuve (Catherine Gunther): Catherine Deneuve's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Peter Lawford (Ted Gunther): Peter Lawford's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The April Fools Mean?
The ending of The April Fools brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Jack Lemmon's story may not satisfy all audiences.