The Criminal Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of The Criminal?

Jasper Rawlins, a none-too-successful musician, finds himself chatting with a beautiful woman at his neighborhood bar. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness. During the night, someone breaks into his flat and cuts her throat. He runs into the arms of the police, who dismiss his story, but release him while they search for the weapon. He investigates the crime, and over the next few days, meets a knowing pornographer, hit men, and other schemers. As dead bodies pile up wherever he goes, the police are soon looking for him with guns drawn. As he discovers secrets about a shadowy corporation, the police close in. Can he find someone to trust?

Julian Simpson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Steven Mackintosh (Jasper Rawlins)'s journey. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness.

How Does Steven Mackintosh (Jasper Rawlins)'s Story End?

• Steven Mackintosh: Steven Mackintosh's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Bernard Hill (Det. Insp. Walker): Bernard Hill's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Eddie Izzard (Peter Hume): Eddie Izzard's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Criminal Mean?

The ending of The Criminal brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Steven Mackintosh's story may not satisfy all audiences.