What Shall I Do With This Sword? Ending Explained: By cross-editing footage of Portuguese workers protesting against NATO forces and various movies, Monteiro shows how one 'sword' can confront the army. Directed by João César Monteiro, this 1975 documentary film stars Maria Velho da Costa, alongside João Diogo, Margarida Gil. Rated 7/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.

What Happens at the End of What Shall I Do With This Sword??

By cross-editing footage of Portuguese workers protesting against NATO forces and various movies, Monteiro shows how one 'sword' can confront the army.

How Does Maria Velho da Costa's Story End?

  • Maria Velho da Costa: Maria Velho da Costa's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with João César Monteiro delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 4m runtime.
  • João Diogo: João Diogo's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Margarida Gil: Margarida Gil's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is What Shall I Do With This Sword? Based on a True Story?

Yes — What Shall I Do With This Sword? draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though João César Monteiro has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of What Shall I Do With This Sword? Mean?

The ending of What Shall I Do With This Sword? ties together the narrative threads involving Maria Velho da Costa. João César Monteiro chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes.