When it comes to divisive films, few have stirred as much debate as the sequel, Halloween Ends. While many descriptions have been tossed around, only the most ardent supporters would argue that the film's themes were too complex or insightful for its critics to grasp. Interestingly, Jamie Lee Curtis recently shared insights about two alternate conclusions that were initially considered for the movie. One such ending would have unfolded in a mask factory, which evokes comparisons to Halloween III: Season of the Witch and even Child's Play 2. Curtis mentioned that these endings were ultimately discarded because they were deemed "too intellectual and profound."
In a recently published book, Horror’s New Wave: 15 Years of Blumhouse, Curtis elaborates on these alternatives, acknowledging the assistance of our friends at Bloody Disgusting for sharing these intriguing details. She explained, "The original conclusion of Halloween Ends, which was initially titled Halloween Dies, featured a scene set in a mask factory. In this setting, a conveyor belt would showcase Michael Myers masks being produced. The idea was to suggest that we all become monsters if we don the mask; it's not just Michael that embodies evil, but all of us can, through the choices we make. Despite its intentions, this concept did not resonate with audiences. I believe it was perhaps too thought-provoking for a grand finale. It was certainly a daring idea, and I genuinely appreciate that creativity.
Moreover, there was another potential ending that delved into a transfer of evil between Laurie and Michael. In this sequence, Laurie faced off against Michael in a climactic final act where, in the moment she ended his life, she began to embody him. This dark turn suggested that she would inevitably need to retreat from the world, isolating herself for life, now burdened with a fragment of Michael within her. However, this exploration was deemed too somber and too deeply reflective to fit the narrative expectations accumulated over the past 40 years. Thus, the film transitioned into a different scene where the town of Haddonfield quietly honors the concluding chapter of Michael’s story, leading Laurie back to her home for the final moments.
David Gordon Green directed Halloween Ends, continuing his role from previous installments, Halloween (2018) and Halloween Kills. The screenplay was crafted in collaboration with Danny McBride, Paul Brad Logan, and Chris Bernier. The plot unfolds four years after the events of Halloween Kills, highlighting Laurie as she lives with her granddaughter, Allyson, and is in the midst of writing her memoir. With Michael Myers mysteriously absent, Laurie seeks to liberate herself from the fear and rage that has consumed her for decades, only to have her resolution shattered when a young man named Corey Cunningham is implicated in a tragic incident. This sets off a horrifying chain of events that compels Laurie to confront the malevolent force she thought she could leave behind.
In the film's closing moments, there exists a glimmer of hope that Laurie Strode, portrayed by Curtis, may finally find a path to healing. The final shot poignantly reveals a Michael Myers mask resting on a table in her home. Curtis reflects, "I think there’s an intentional ambiguity here. It creates a similar effect that the original idea of the mask factory overflowing with masks would have achieved."
What was your take on the ending of Halloween Ends? Would you have favored an alternate conclusion set in a mask factory, or do you prefer the concept where Laurie bears some of the evil? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below!
