The Frighteners Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Frighteners.
The Frighteners Ending Explained: Once an architect, Frank Bannister now passes himself off as an exorcist of evil spirits. Directed by Peter Jackson, this 1996 horror film stars Michael J. Fox (Frank Bannister), alongside Trini Alvarado as Lucy Lynskey, Peter Dobson as Ray Lynskey, John Astin as The Judge. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Frighteners?
Once an architect, Frank Bannister now passes himself off as an exorcist of evil spirits. To bolster his facade, he claims his "special" gift is the result of a car accident that killed his wife. But what he does not count on is more people dying in the small town where he lives. As he tries to piece together the supernatural mystery of these killings, he falls in love with the wife of one of the victims and deals with a crazy FBI agent.
Peter Jackson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Michael J. Fox (Frank Bannister)'s journey. To bolster his facade, he claims his "special" gift is the result of a car accident that killed his wife.
How Does Michael J. Fox (Frank Bannister)'s Story End?
- Michael J. Fox: Michael J. Fox's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Trini Alvarado (Lucy Lynskey): Trini Alvarado's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Peter Dobson (Ray Lynskey): Peter Dobson's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Frighteners Mean?
The Frighteners's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Michael J. Fox may feel rushed. Peter Jackson's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution. Based on 1,726 audience ratings, the consensus is that the ending is adequate but divisive.