The Peeping Tom Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Peeping Tom.
The Peeping Tom Ending Explained: Roy Chen Chih Lai is a serial rapist and murderer with a leg fetish, and cuts off his victims' legs as trophies after he's through with them. Directed by Ivan Lai Kai-Ming, this 1997 crime film stars Jade Leung Tsang (Insp. Cheng Hsuen), alongside Mark Cheng Ho-Nam as Roy Chen Chih Lai, Michael Tse Tin-Wah as Ken Chang, Miho Nomoto as Kelly. Rated 4.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Peeping Tom?
Roy Chen Chih Lai is a serial rapist and murderer with a leg fetish, and cuts off his victims' legs as trophies after he's through with them. One day at a bank robbery shootout, he catches police woman Cheng Hsuen on camera, and chooses her to be his next victim. He begins to stalk her and enter her personal life, even waiting for her inside her home. He notices her sister, Kelly, as well (who is also a cop), and her boyfriend, Ken. After he kidnaps and rapes Kelly, Cheng decides to lure the madman by using herself as bait, and bring justice to the situation.
Ivan Lai Kai-Ming's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Jade Leung Tsang (Insp. Cheng Hsuen)'s journey. One day at a bank robbery shootout, he catches police woman Cheng Hsuen on camera, and chooses her to be his next victim.
How Does Jade Leung Tsang (Insp. Cheng Hsuen)'s Story End?
- Jade Leung Tsang: Jade Leung Tsang's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Mark Cheng Ho-Nam (Roy Chen Chih Lai): Mark Cheng Ho-Nam's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Michael Tse Tin-Wah (Ken Chang): Michael Tse Tin-Wah's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Peeping Tom Mean?
The ending of The Peeping Tom brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Jade Leung Tsang's story may not satisfy all audiences.