Endings can make or break a movie. 2015 featured 10 final scenes ranging from memorable and funny to genuinely emotional and completely unexpected. (SPOILER-FREE – I PROMISE!):
1. “THE PEANUTS MOVIE” – Like the entire CGI feature adaptation of the beloved comic strip and holiday specials, the last scene is sweet, heartwarming and surprisingly moving.
2. “IRRATIONAL MAN” – Woody Allen’s crime drama starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone had a twist I didn’t see coming. Be careful the next time you step onto an elevator.
3. “THE WALK” – Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s on-screen narration as tightrope walker Philippe Petit didn’t work throughout Robert Zemeckis’ true-story biopic. But Levitt’s last speech, along with the beautiful symbolism, are powerful.
4. “RICKI AND THE FLASH” – Some who saw this music dramedy felt the ending was corny and unrealistic. But if you actually invested yourself in the story and Meryl Streep’s title character, her showcase song (chosen and performed perfectly), and the meaning behind it, actually work quite well.
5. “ALOHA” – Cameron Crowe’s all-star romance was consistently messy. But Bradley Cooper rose to the occasion with an effective, speechless finale.
6. “TRAINWRECK” – Amy Schumer + Knicks Cheerleaders + “Uptown Girl” = A Winner!
7. “FURIOUS 7” – The tribute to late star Paul Walker was handled quite well.
8. “SPOTLIGHT” – It’s a straightforward finish, but it caps-off the ensemble drama’s stellar final 20 minutes.
9. “CAROL” – This Cate Blanchett/Rooney Mara romance has a simple conclusion, but with perfect pacing and emotional punch.
10. “CREED” – The legendary franchise comes full circle in just the right location.