The Deer King Ending Explained: What Really Happened?

The Deer King Ending Explained: Following a brutal war, former soldier Van toils in a mine controlled by the ruling empire. Directed by Masayuki Miyaji, this 2021 animation anime stars Shinichi Tsutsumi (Van (voice)), alongside Ryoma Takeuchi as Hohsalle (voice), Anne Watanabe as Sae (voice), Hisui Kimura as Yuna (voice). With a 6.7/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of The Deer King?

Following a brutal war, former soldier Van toils in a mine controlled by the ruling empire. One day, his solitary existence is upended when a pack of wild dogs carrying a deadly and incurable disease attack, leaving only Van and a young girl named Yuna as survivors. Finally free, the pair seek out a simple existence in the countryside but are pursued by nefarious forces. Intent on protecting Yuna at all costs, Van must uncover the true cause of the plague ravaging the kingdom—and its possible cure.

Masayuki Miyaji's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Shinichi Tsutsumi (Van (voice))'s journey. One day, his solitary existence is upended when a pack of wild dogs carrying a deadly and incurable disease attack, leaving only Van and a young girl named Yuna as survivors.

How Does Shinichi Tsutsumi (Van (voice))'s Story End?

Shinichi Tsutsumi: Shinichi Tsutsumi's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
Ryoma Takeuchi (Hohsalle (voice)): Ryoma Takeuchi's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
Anne Watanabe (Sae (voice)): Anne Watanabe's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Deer King Mean?

The Deer King's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Shinichi Tsutsumi may feel rushed. Masayuki Miyaji's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.