Spoilers · the ending
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: the ending, explained
Chris Columbus · 2001
This page gives the ending away. Not seen the film yet? Its spoiler-free guide is here.
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Spoilers · the ending
Chris Columbus · 2001
This page gives the ending away. Not seen the film yet? Its spoiler-free guide is here.
What happens
Harry stops Quirrell, who carries Voldemort on the back of his head, from taking the Stone. His mother's love protects him. Snape, it turns out, was guarding Harry all along. Gryffindor wins the House Cup, and Harry goes back to the Dursleys.
The last image
Harry steps off the train at the end of term and heads back to the Dursleys, but now he has friends and a place to return to.
What it says
The ending answers the film's question about belonging. Harry's mother's love shields him, and he wins through friends and his own choices, not just his fame. He returns to the Dursleys, but he is no longer alone.