Tethered Movie Ending Explained, The Plot Summary, and More
by Janani
Updated Jun 07, 2023
Tethered Movie 2022 Wikipedia
Tethered is an independent horror-thriller that begins with a clever premise and a strong start. The film effectively establishes an atmosphere of foreboding, aided by the eerie setting, haunting music, and subtle hints of lurking danger, all of which contribute to an engaging first act. However, as the story unfolds and a new character is introduced, the film noticeably loses its momentum and fails to maintain the initial level of intrigue and suspense.
Tethered Movie was released on 18 March 2022. Tethered was directed by Daniel Robinette. The main cast of the movie includes Jared Laufree, Alexandra Paul, Brody Bett, Kareem Ferguson, Chris Demm, Jared Cook, and Grace Mumm.
Tethered Movie Ending Explained
Initially, due to its small cast and isolated setting, I thought Tethered was set in a post-apocalyptic world, with Solomon's mother suffering from radiation poisoning and an unseen creature being a mutation. However, if the film is indeed post-apocalyptic, it is never explicitly stated.
There are atmospheric sequences when Hank begins searching for the creature, but the film still revolves around Solomon and his inner turmoil. He grapples with whether to disobey the rule of never letting go of the rope and assist Hank in tracking the beast. This internal conflict can be seen as a metaphor for growing up and finding one's identity, even if it means rejecting or releasing the beliefs instilled during upbringing.
Unfortunately, the film concludes with numerous unanswered questions and a shift from being effective to appearing ludicrous in the blink of an eye. It feels as though the filmmakers were pressed for time and resources, resulting in a hastily put-together ending. With seven writers involved, it's surprising that so many unanswered questions remain and that the final shot looks poorly executed.
Nevertheless, considering its presumably low budget and mostly inexperienced cast, Tethered is surprisingly well-crafted. Just be aware that it is a slow-burning film, more focused on drama and suspense than a traditional monster movie.
Tethered is released by Gravitas Ventures in selected theaters and on various VOD and digital platforms. If Tethered doesn't meet your preferences but you're looking for something similar, FilmTagger offers some recommendations.
Tethered Movie Plot Summary
A young boy named Solomon (Brody Bett), who is blind and confined to the cabin he lives in, checks animal traps using a long stick while his mother Nidia (Alexandra Paul, known for her roles in Christine and Baywatch) watches. Nidia oversees Solomon as he guts and cleans a squirrel caught in one of the traps.
Years pass, and Solomon (now played by Jared Laufree) lives alone since his mother mysteriously disappeared without any explanation. Despite being alone, he still follows the three rules his mother ingrained in him: always give back to the forest that provides for him, find solace in their song when his spirits are low, and most importantly, never let go of the rope.
Director Daniel Robinette, one of seven credited writers, based Tethered on his 2017 short film of the same name, which also featured Laufree as Solomon. The film offers few clues about the underlying story. A recording made by Solomon's father, Lucas (Chris Demm, known for Hank vs. The Undead), reveals that he had to leave for unspecified reasons and that Nidia's illness was not alleviated by their move to the remote location. However, the specifics of her illness and why relocating would help remain unknown.
The first half-hour of Tethered unfolds at a slow pace, particularly after Nidia's departure. Apart from a few clever moments, such as Solomon using a bell on his fishing line to signal a bite or his device for splitting firewood, the film teeters on dullness. Some point-of-view shots from the trees and mysterious noises in the distance hint at the presence of someone or something, but they fail to inject excitement into the film.
Things pick up slightly when a hunter named Hank (Kareem Ferguson, known for Talking with the Taxman About Poetry and Something Blue) stumbles upon Solomon. However, this doesn't suddenly make the film thrilling. Tethered is primarily a two-character drama and can be considered more of a horror-tinged version of A Knight's Tour—a post-apocalyptic science fiction film with a similar focus on two characters.
Tethered Movie Cast
S.No.
Actor/Actress
1
Jared Laufree
2
Alexandra Paul
3
Brody Bett
4
Kareem Ferguson
5
Chris Demm
6
Jared Cook
7
Grace Mumm
Tethered Movie Ending Explained - FAQ
Tethered movie was released on 18 March 2022.
Tethered was directed by Daniel Robinette.
The main cast of Tethered movie includes Jared Laufree, Alexandra Paul, Brody Bett, Kareem Ferguson, Chris Demm, Jared Cook, and Grace Mumm.
The ending of Tethered movie leaves several questions unanswered and takes a sudden and questionable turn. It appears that the filmmakers may have rushed the ending, resulting in a less satisfying conclusion. Despite the involvement of seven writers, there are lingering unanswered aspects and a poorly executed final shot.
Tethered follows the story of a young blind boy named Solomon (played by Brody Bett and later by Jared Laufree) who lives in a cabin with his mother Nidia (Alexandra Paul). After years pass and his mother mysteriously disappears, Solomon lives alone, adhering to the rules instilled by his mother. The film gradually reveals the challenges Solomon faces and the mysteries surrounding his isolated existence.