re: Does Shawshank Redemption Have The Best Ending In Movie History?

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I upvoted, but would add that the question you’re really asking in your subject line is “does Shawshank have the most satisfying/rewarding ending”.

As others have mentioned, you take the ending to a film like Casablanca which is considered great - though it may not be “rewarding” for the audience that wanted Rick and Ilsa to wind up together. Gone With the Wind is another with an iconic ending - though some may have wanted Rhett and Scarlet to live happily ever after….or have a different result in the war.

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Exactly. There are many endings that are great, however, they aren't satisfying in any way, shape, or form. In fact, I appreciate endings that don't wrap the story in a nice little bow., but instead, leave you asking more questions, or simply just sitting there. A few that do that:

The Deer Hunter - When they sing God Bless America, it is simply chilling.

American Sniper - seeing this in the theatre was incredible. Not a single person said a word. Many had tears in their eyes. Absolutely beautiful.

Seven - What a twisted, sick ending, but also incredible.

Inception - Love this ending for all the debate it generated.