Dead Ringers Ending Explained, What happens in the movie?
by Sona
Updated Apr 22, 2023
Dead Ringers
Dead Ringers is a 1988 psychological thriller movie that features Jeremy Irons playing dual roles as twin gynecologists. The film was directed and co-written by David Cronenberg, who collaborated on the screenplay with Norman Snider. The story was inspired by the lives of Stewart and Cyril Marcus, as well as the novel "Twins" by Bari Wood and Jack Geasland, which is a fictionalized account of the Marcus brothers' lives.
The film received critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including multiple Genie Awards, with Irons' performance being particularly praised. It was also ranked among the Top 10 Canadian Films of All Time by critics at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Dead Ringers Ending Explained
In the finale of Dead Ringers, the theme of "twin swap" was prominent, as the sisters had frequently switched identities to share romantic experiences. However, things took a turn for the worse when journalist Silas Jordan threatened to expose Elliot's malpractices and Rebecca urged Beverly to sever ties with her sister.
Beverly publicly announced the split from her sister and enjoyed the success of their enterprise, but she fell into depression when her lover left and Tom accused her of riding on her sister's success. She contacted Elliot again, who revealed that she was growing embryos from Beverly and Tom's DNA.
Beverly and Elliot then came up with a plan for the ultimate twin swap. Elliot cut a C-section-like incision into her body and did the same to Beverly after tying her hair up. Beverly bled out on the operating table, and Elliot assumed her sister's identity to start a new life with Genevieve and the twins.
In the final scene, it was revealed that Beverly had been attending grief therapy sessions, suggesting that she may have had a more complex plan in mind. However, the film provided no further explanation, leaving the audience to ponder the true motivations behind the twin swap.
Does Elliot Die?
In the show, it is implied that Elliot dies due to his illness. Maura, unable to cope with the loss, creates a simulation where Elliot can live on forever, even if she doesn't remember him. The fact that there is a grave outside of Henry's mental hospital suggests that Elliot has passed away.
Additionally, Maura and Daniel's first simulation was a bunker located beneath Elliot's grave, suggesting that they were attempting to create a permanent home for him even after his death.
What Happens in Dead Ringer?
The final episode of Dead Ringer begins with Beverly leading a successful life after separating from her sister Elliot. However, her new-found success is threatened when journalist Silas threatens to expose Elliot's past drug use and possible involvement in the murder of a homeless woman.
Beverly is also hurt by her lover Genevieve's departure for a new job and her sister Rebecca's demand that she publicly sever ties with Elliot. As the episode progresses, we hear the sound of Elliot's voice and a phone ringing in the background, indicating that Beverly is still thinking about her sister.
At an awards ceremony, Beverly uses the opportunity to publicly separate from Elliot as urged by Rebecca and Genevieve.
Dead Ringer Plot
Dead Ringer follows the story of twin gynecologists Elliot and Beverly Mantle, who operate a successful fertility clinic in Toronto. Elliot seduces patients, and when he tires of them, Beverly takes over. One patient, Claire Niveau, becomes emotionally involved with Beverly, and they both begin to abuse prescription drugs.
Beverly's mental state deteriorates when Claire leaves, and he becomes obsessed with mutant women. The film ends tragically as Beverly kills Elliot in a drug-induced delirium and dies from drug withdrawal in Elliot's arms.
The film delves into the complicated relationship between the twin brothers and the consequences of their unethical behavior. It explores themes of identity, dependence, and obsession, ending with a sense of tragedy and loss as both brothers meet their untimely demise.
Dead Ringers Ending Explained: FAQs
Dead Ringers is a psychological thriller film about identical twin gynecologists who operate a highly successful clinical practice in Toronto that specializes in treating fertility problems.
Dead Ringers was directed by David Cronenberg, a Canadian filmmaker known for his distinctive style of exploring the intersection between science fiction, horror, and body horror in his films.
Dead Ringers was released in 1988 and has since become a cult classic and a critical and commercial success. The film was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
No, Dead Ringers is not based on a true story.
Elliot slashes open her own stomach, takes her sister's babies, and races out into the halls crying for help. Meanwhile, Beverly bleeds out on the operating table. In the final scene, Elliot now pretending to be Beverly happily raising her children with Genevieve.