Behind the Scenes of Halloween Ends’ Controversial Endings

Los Angeles, CA – The 2022 film Halloween Ends has stirred up discussions among fans of the horror franchise, particularly regarding its controversial ending. As the final chapter in director David Gordon Green‘s sequel trilogy, the film aimed to conclude the long-standing story of Laurie Strode and Michael Myers while introducing a new character, Corey Cunningham, played by Rohan Campbell.

Many viewers entered the theater expecting a thrilling conclusion to the classic showdown between Laurie, portrayed by Jamie Lee Curtis, and Michael, the iconic masked killer. However, reactions to the film have varied, with some fans feeling unsatisfied. The film culminates in a dramatic scene where Laurie kills Michael, disposing of his body in an industrial shredder as the town of Haddonfield watches in silence.

In a new book, Jamie Lee Curtis revealed that Halloween Ends underwent significant changes from its original concepts. One early ending featured a mask factory, showcasing Michael Myers masks being produced en masse, illustrating a theme of shared monstrousness. Curtis described this concept as too ‘intellectual’ for the finale.

Another discarded ending involved a dark transference of evil between Laurie and Michael, where Laurie would take on a piece of Michael’s essence after killing him. Curtis noted that this plot point was ‘too dark’ for the culmination of the series that had spanned 40 years.

Ultimately, Curtis advocated for a hopeful ending, including a scene on Laurie’s porch with character Frank, suggesting a brighter future for Laurie. However, a haunting final shot of Michael’s mask in Laurie’s home implies she can never fully escape her trauma.

David Gordon Green also shared that a separate ending was considered, featuring the infamous Silver Shamrock mask factory from Halloween III: Season of the Witch, but he ultimately chose not to include it, fearing it would come off as mere fan service.

The discussions surrounding these alternate endings provide insight into the balancing act of satisfying audiences while maintaining the film’s themes and legacy.