Year: 2017
Runtime: 109 min
Language: English
Directors: Anthony LaMolinara, Xiaoding Zhao
Three hundred years prior, a tragic parting on Zhu Xian Terrace marked the heartbreaking end of a couple's relationship, an event witnessed by a bronze mirror. Fate intervenes centuries later when they unexpectedly reunite within the mystical East Sea Dragon Palace. Their destinies are once again entwined, forcing them to confront the sorrow of their past and the challenges of a renewed connection.
Warning: spoilers below!
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Still thinking about how Once Upon a Time (2017) ended? Here’s a full breakdown of the ending, key final moments, major twists, and the deeper meaning behind the film’s conclusion.
The ending of “Once Upon a Time… Happily Never After” reveals that the town’s curse is ultimately broken when Maxi and Juana, the reincarnations of the love story’s prince and princess, work together to release the dragon into the lake. Earlier, it was misunderstood that they had to be in love with each other to break the curse, but it turns out that what really mattered was their willingness to fulfill the prophecy by releasing the dragon, regardless of romantic feelings. Goya, who looks like the princess and is also the reincarnation of the fairy tale’s princess, initially believes she is just a friend to Maxi and does not feel romantic love for him. However, in a twist, Goya and Maxi share a kiss, acknowledging that their connection isn’t based on romantic love but on fulfilling the story’s requirements. Goya then leaves town, skeptical about the fairy tale and love itself, while Maxi remains hopeful about fixing things in his own way. The crucial detail uncovered is that the original curse was a misunderstanding—one that could only be broken if the reincarnated lovers simply performed the act of release together, not necessarily with love. Once they do so, the curse lifts, love is restored to the town, and people realize they have always been connected across reincarnations. The story ends on a note of reconciliation and renewal, emphasizing that love, in its true form, is less about romantic idealism and more about genuine intent and action. The curse is broken, Antonio is arrested for his misdeeds, and the townspeople understand that their repeated reincarnations reveal a deeper, unbreakable bond that has persisted across centuries. In the end, it’s a mix of a problem being solved and a celebration of the enduring nature of connection, rather than a traditional fairy-tale happily-ever-after.**
Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44
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Read a complete plot summary of Once Upon a Time, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
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