The Passenger

In the final moments of The Passenger, we see a transformation in Randy’s character. After enduring and surviving Benson’s violent rampage and the chaos of their joint escape, Randy begins to show signs of personal growth. The film reveals that both men carry deep childhood traumas—Benson’s rooted in a violent incident from his early years, and Randy’s in a tragic act of accidental violence involving his teacher during second grade. Benson’s uncontrollable rage and violence seem to stem from his past abuse, while Randy’s inability to react has been shaped by the guilt and remorse over his childhood accident.

Despite Benson’s confident brutality, it’s clear that he is not the in-control predator he appears to be; rather, he’s haunted by his childhood trauma, which ultimately overpowers him. When Randy confronts Benson during their final encounter and urges him to stop, Benson’s internal conflict erupts, leading him to shoot Randy in the shoulder. However, after finally realizing that Randy had called the police, Benson’s violence subsides, and he is shot dead by the police, showing that his own past and unresolved issues dominate his actions.

In contrast, Randy’s assault and captivity become catalysts for change. He begins to find a sense of confidence and purpose, reconnecting with the kindness of Miss Beard and developing a better relationship with his mother. The act of gifting the toy crocodile to Tessa symbolizes his emotional growth and newfound ability to connect with others. The ending suggests that Randy has begun to confront and accept his past, turning his trauma into a source of strength and moving towards a healthier future. The film concludes with a quiet note of hope, illustrating that even in the darkest circumstances, healing and transformation are possible.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:01