Netflix’s “Animals” Ending Explained: Does Mark Pay the Ransom?
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Summary of the Article
This article delves into the moral complexities of Netflix's film Animals, starring Ben Affleck, Kerry Washington, and Gillian Anderson. The film poses a thought-provoking question: What happens when decency is traded for desire?
Plot Overview
Animals follows Mark Kimball (Affleck), a mayoral candidate, and his wife Abby (Washington) who face a ransom demand for their son Denny (Christopher Woodley). However, the kidnap plot goes awry when their housekeeper's boyfriend's son, Hector (Jacob Estrada), is mistakenly taken. The Kimballs must decide whether to pay the ransom, sacrificing their moral integrity for their son's safety and political career.
Ending Analysis
- Mark's Victory: Mark wins the mayoral election with help from Hector's father, Ramon (Luis Gerardo Méndez), who lies about his involvement in Hector's rescue. Ramon takes credit for saving them, allowing Mark to present himself as a hero to the Latino community.
- Dayle and Rand's Fate: Dayle (Gillian Anderson) and her driver Rand (Chris Gann) are killed by a third kidnapper. Despite Rand's immediate death, Dayle survives but is left alone with Mark, who doesn't call for help. She eventually dies, leaving Mark in possession of the $7 million he borrowed from her.
- Moral Compromise: The ending highlights Mark's moral compromise, as he not only avoids punishment but also benefits from Dayle's death, further complicating the film's central question about the thin line between humanity and animalistic behavior.