The Handmaid's Tale Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Handmaid's Tale.
The Handmaid's Tale Ending Explained: In a dystopian, polluted right-wing religious tyranny, a young woman is put in sexual slavery on account of her now rare fertility. Directed by Volker Schlöndorff, this 1990 drama film stars Natasha Richardson (Kate), alongside Faye Dunaway as Serena Joy, Aidan Quinn as Nick, Elizabeth McGovern as Moira. With a 6.1/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Handmaid's Tale?
In a dystopian, polluted right-wing religious tyranny, a young woman is put in sexual slavery on account of her now rare fertility.
How Does Natasha Richardson (Kate)'s Story End?
- Natasha Richardson: Natasha Richardson's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Faye Dunaway (Serena Joy): Faye Dunaway's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Aidan Quinn (Nick): Aidan Quinn's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Handmaid's Tale Mean?
The Handmaid's Tale's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Natasha Richardson may feel rushed. Volker Schlöndorff's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.