What Happens at the End of Krippendorf's Tribe?

After squandering his grant money, despondent and recently widowed anthropologist James Krippendorf must produce hard evidence of the existence of a heretofore undiscovered New Guinea tribe. Grass skirts, makeup, and staged rituals transform his three troubled children into the Shelmikedmu, a primitive culture whose habits enthrall scholars. But when a spiteful rival threatens to blow the whistle on Krippendorf's ruse, he gets into the act as well.

Todd Holland's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Richard Dreyfuss (Prof. Krippendorf)'s journey. Grass skirts, makeup, and staged rituals transform his three troubled children into the Shelmikedmu, a primitive culture whose habits enthrall scholars.

How Does Richard Dreyfuss (Prof. Krippendorf)'s Story End?

• Richard Dreyfuss: Richard Dreyfuss's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Jenna Elfman (Veronica): Jenna Elfman's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Zakes Mokae (Sulukim): Zakes Mokae's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Krippendorf's Tribe Mean?

The ending of Krippendorf's Tribe brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Richard Dreyfuss's story may not satisfy all audiences.