Spoilers · the ending
The Wind That Shakes the Barley: the ending, explained
Ken Loach · 2006
This page gives the ending away. Not seen the film yet? Its spoiler-free guide is here.
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Spoilers · the ending
Ken Loach · 2006
This page gives the ending away. Not seen the film yet? Its spoiler-free guide is here.
What happens
Damien is captured by Free State troops, men who once fought beside him. Teddy offers to save him if he reveals where the arms are hidden. Damien refuses, Teddy lets the execution happen, and he then has to break the news to Sinéad.
The last image
Sinéad receives the news of Damien's death from Teddy, and grief settles on her and on what is left of the family.
What it says
The ending shows a cause consuming the family it was meant to defend. Teddy chooses the new state over his brother, and Damien chooses principle over his life. The film leaves no victory, only the cost.