Chokehold (2019) Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Yalin's story culminates in a bleak and brutal ending where his attempts to escape his past fail utterly. After killing Cevdet in a burst of rage and desperation, Yalin tries to cover up his crimes by hiding the bodies in the woods. Despite his efforts, the weight of his guilt and paranoia grows, and he continues to commit more murders—killing another villager and making a deal to help illegal immigrants cross into Greece, further chaining himself to his violent deeds. His fear of being caught and exposed drives him to violence, but in truth, he's also clinging to a sense of control and power.

Meanwhile, Beyza, who once believed she could reform Yalin and even reported his crimes, ultimately becomes his victim. Yalin kills her in a fit of rage when she threatens to give his stolen money to the authorities, exposing his true nature once and for all. Her death signifies the final collapse of any hope for redemption or change. Yalin's pride and ego remain intact, even in the face of his wife's murder; he kills Beyza to remind her—and himself—that he is still the powerful, ruthless man he once was. Her murder is a turning point that cements his descent into complete moral decay, refusing to accept responsibility or remorse.