The Hospital Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Hospital.
The Hospital Ending Explained: Bock, the chief of medicine at a Manhattan hospital, is suicidal after the collapse of his personal life. Directed by Arthur Hiller, this 1971 comedy film stars George C. Scott (Dr. Herbert Bock), alongside Diana Rigg as Barbara Drummond, Barnard Hughes as Drummond, Richard Dysart as Dr. Welbeck. With a 6.6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Hospital?
Dr. Bock, the chief of medicine at a Manhattan hospital, is suicidal after the collapse of his personal life. When an intern is found dead in a hospital bed, it appears to Bock to be a case of unforgivable malpractice. Hours later, another doctor, who happens to be responsible for another case of malpractice, is found dead. Despondent, Bock finds himself drawn to Barbara, the daughter of a comatose missionary.
Arthur Hiller's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on George C. Scott (Dr. Herbert Bock)'s journey. When an intern is found dead in a hospital bed, it appears to Bock to be a case of unforgivable malpractice.
How Does George C. Scott (Dr. Herbert Bock)'s Story End?
- George C. Scott: George C. Scott's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Diana Rigg (Barbara Drummond): Diana Rigg's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Barnard Hughes (Drummond): Barnard Hughes's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Hospital Mean?
The Hospital's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving George C. Scott may feel rushed. Arthur Hiller's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.