The Living Corpse Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Living Corpse.
The Living Corpse Ending Explained: The central character of the play, Fedor Protasov, is tormented by the belief that his wife Liza has never really chosen between him and the more conventional Victor Karenin, a rival for her hand. Directed by Fyodor Otsep, this 1929 drama film stars Vsevolod Pudovkin (Fyodor Protasov), alongside Maria Jacobini as Yelizaveta Andreyevna Protasova, Viola Garden as Sasha, Yelizaveta's sister, Julia Serda as Anna Pavlovna. Rated 5.4/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Living Corpse?
The central character of the play, Fedor Protasov, is tormented by the belief that his wife Liza has never really chosen between him and the more conventional Victor Karenin, a rival for her hand. He wants to kill himself, but doesn't have the nerve. Running away from his life, he first falls in with Gypsies, and into a sexual relationship with a Gypsy singer, Masha.
Fyodor Otsep's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Vsevolod Pudovkin (Fyodor Protasov)'s journey. He wants to kill himself, but doesn't have the nerve.
How Does Vsevolod Pudovkin (Fyodor Protasov)'s Story End?
- Vsevolod Pudovkin: Vsevolod Pudovkin's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Maria Jacobini (Yelizaveta Andreyevna Protasova): Maria Jacobini's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Viola Garden (Sasha, Yelizaveta's sister): Viola Garden's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Living Corpse Mean?
The ending of The Living Corpse brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Vsevolod Pudovkin's story may not satisfy all audiences.