The Empress Dowager Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager Ending Explained: Han Hsiang Li's lush epic re-creates the fascinating life and times of Tzu Hsi, the Manchu Qing dynasty empress who rose from the ranks of Emperor Xianfeng's many concubines to become the de facto ruler of China for nearly 50 years. Directed by Li Han-Hsiang, this 1989 drama film stars Liu Xiaoqing (Empress Dowager Cixi), alongside Gong Li as Guilian, Chen Daoming as Emperor Tongzhi, Tony Leung Ka-fai as Emperor Xian Feng. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Empress Dowager?
Han Hsiang Li's lush epic re-creates the fascinating life and times of Tzu Hsi, the Manchu Qing dynasty empress who rose from the ranks of Emperor Xianfeng's many concubines to become the de facto ruler of China for nearly 50 years.
How Does Liu Xiaoqing (Empress Dowager Cixi)'s Story End?
- Liu Xiaoqing: Liu Xiaoqing's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Gong Li (Guilian): Gong Li's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Chen Daoming (Emperor Tongzhi): Chen Daoming's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is The Empress Dowager Based on a True Story?
Yes — The Empress Dowager draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Li Han-Hsiang has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of The Empress Dowager Mean?
The Empress Dowager's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Liu Xiaoqing may feel rushed. Li Han-Hsiang's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.