Kinds of Kindness

In the closing moments of Kinds of Kindness, the theme of inevitable tragedy and the corrupting power of control become even more stark. R.M.F., who has served as the mysterious connector between each story, remains a detached observer, symbolizing the unescapable nature of trouble that follows everyone regardless of their actions. In the last scene, he casually eats a sandwich, spilling ketchup over himself — a small but telling sign that chaos is an unavoidable part of life, no matter how much one tries to stay outside or maintain control. Throughout the film, the recurring motif of people sacrificing their autonomy or their sense of goodness to satisfy abusive figures reveals a nihilistic view: kindness, true or distorted, inevitably leads to degradation and death. Robert’s extreme submission to Raymond, Liz’s tragic self-destruction to please her husband, and Emily’s reckless desperation to find a miracle all illustrate how the pursuit of love or kindness, when corrupted, results in loss. R.M.F.’s presence at the end underscores the idea that no matter how detached or outside we may feel, trouble is always circling, waiting to claim us. In this universe, genuine goodness often ends in sacrifice, and ultimately, everyone crosses the limits of morality or self-control. The film concludes with the quiet, almost mundane act of spilling ketchup — a reminder that chaos is always lurking, even in the simplest of moments.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44