The Great Lie Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Great Lie.
The Great Lie Ending Explained: After a newlywed's husband apparently dies in a plane crash, she discovers that her rival for his affections is pregnant with his child. Directed by Edmund Goulding, this 1941 drama film stars Bette Davis (Maggie Patterson Van Allen), alongside Mary Astor as Sandra Kovak, George Brent as Peter 'Pete' Van Allen, Lucile Watson as Aunt Ada Greenfield. Rated 7/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.
What Happens at the End of The Great Lie?
After a newlywed's husband apparently dies in a plane crash, she discovers that her rival for his affections is pregnant with his child.
How Does Bette Davis (Maggie Patterson Van Allen)'s Story End?
- Bette Davis: Bette Davis's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with Edmund Goulding delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 48m runtime.
- Mary Astor (Sandra Kovak): Mary Astor's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- George Brent (Peter 'Pete' Van Allen): George Brent's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Great Lie Mean?
The ending of The Great Lie ties together the narrative threads involving Bette Davis. Edmund Goulding chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes.