Gift (2019) Plot Summary & Ending Explained

The ending of The Gift leaves viewers with a lasting sense of shock and uncertainty. In the original conclusion, Gordo reveals that he might be Simon’s biological child, suggesting a disturbing possibility that Gordo could have been the product of Simon’s past abuse. This revelation is accompanied by visuals showing Gordo taking Robyn to their bedroom, implying he may have assaulted her and that the baby could be his. This horrifying implication is intentionally left ambiguous, creating a powerful emotional impact. Simon, devastated by what he discovers, is left in a state of shock and horror, unsure whether his wife and child have truly been violated or if Gordo’s threat was just a cruel game. The ambiguity heightens the tension, emphasizing that Gordo’s revenge is about inflicting psychological torment rather than clear-cut revenge.

The alternate ending, however, clears up this ambiguity. It shows Gordo placing Robyn’s unconscious body on their bed, and he removes his mask with a look of remorse and shame, indicating he did not assault Robyn or the baby. This version makes it clear that Gordo's revenge was solely directed at Simon and was not about harming Robyn. While it reduces the horror of the climax, it also lessens the emotional punch of the story. The original ending's unresolved questions force viewers to share Simon’s raw shock and fear, making the conclusion more memorable and impactful. Director Joel Edgerton believed the ambiguous ending preserved the film’s tension and emotional depth, whereas the more straightforward alternate ending would have been less intense and more predictably resolved.