The Good Mother Ending Explained: When troubled teen Jillian is arrested and her mother is missing, she is taken in by the well-respected family of her best friend, Melanie. Directed by Richard Gabai, this 2013 drama film stars Helen Slater (Cheryl), alongside Camille Cregan as Jillian, Jean Louisa Kelly as Rachel, Ron Melendez as Will. Rated 4.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.

What Happens at the End of The Good Mother?

When troubled teen Jillian is arrested and her mother is missing, she is taken in by the well-respected family of her best friend, Melanie. She starts to rebuild her life, but when Melanie dies after a long illness, Jillian discovers that Melanie's mom might not be "The Good Mother" we think she is.

Richard Gabai's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Helen Slater (Cheryl)'s journey. She starts to rebuild her life, but when Melanie dies after a long illness, Jillian discovers that Melanie's mom might not be "The Good Mother" we think she is.

How Does Helen Slater (Cheryl)'s Story End?

  • Helen Slater: Helen Slater's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Camille Cregan (Jillian): Camille Cregan's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Jean Louisa Kelly (Rachel): Jean Louisa Kelly's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Good Mother Mean?

The ending of The Good Mother brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Helen Slater's story may not satisfy all audiences.