The Duel

The film’s ending is heavily symbolic and raises questions about toxic masculinity and the destructive ways some men choose to handle conflicts. Throughout the story, Colin and Woody, childhood friends, are driven by pride, ego, and notions of honor rooted in outdated ideas of masculinity. Their rivalry culminates in a duel, an old-fashioned way of settling disputes, which ultimately leads to their deaths. This tragic finale seems to suggest that such toxic notions of masculinity are not only harmful to the individuals involved but also to everyone around them, especially the women who care about these men, like Abbie.

In a climactic and highly emotional scene, both men fire their guns and shoot each other, dying before the crowd’s eyes while the crowd applauds, glorifying their self-destructive act as a heroic feat. However, this dramatized ending is open to interpretation. It can be viewed as a symbolic comment on how violence and pride often overshadow genuine emotional connection and rationality. The film hints that the entire duel might have been a hallucination, a nightmare, or a metaphorical representation of the destructive cycle driven by toxic masculinity. A flashback or dream-like sequence shows Colin and Woody exchanging piercing glances at a party, ending in blood, which suggests that their tragic fate might be more about their internal struggles and societal pressures rather than an actual physical duel.

Ultimately, the ending underscores that the true tragedy lies in the emotional immaturity and societal norms that push individuals towards irrational and violent responses. The story warns that clinging to outdated ideals about masculinity can destroy lives, as demonstrated by the mutual destruction of Colin and Woody. Abbie, witnessing both their deaths, is left in despair, representing the collateral damage caused by such toxic ideas. The film’s conclusion invites viewers to reflect on the importance of emotional intelligence and overcoming pride to prevent such tragedies. Through its powerful symbolism, the story condemns the harmful notions of masculinity that continue to threaten real human connection and well-being.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:00