Little Shop of Horrors

| 1986

Directed by: Frank Oz

Main Plot

Little Shop of Horrors follows the story of Seymour Krelborn, a timid and struggling florist's assistant working in a small flower shop in a rundown part of town. One day, he discovers a mysterious plant that he names Audrey II, which quickly becomes a sensation due to its unique appearance and carnivorous appetite. As Seymour nurtures the plant, it grows larger and more demanding, requiring increasingly bizarre and sinister forms of nourishment. Meanwhile, Seymour harbors feelings for his co-worker, Audrey, who is caught in a tumultuous relationship with a sadistic dentist. As Audrey II's hunger escalates, Seymour faces moral dilemmas and the consequences of his choices, leading to a darkly comedic exploration of ambition, love, and the price of success. The story blends elements of horror and musical comedy, culminating in a series of unexpected and dramatic events.

Characters

  • Rick Moranis plays Seymour Krelborn, a florist who raises a plant that feeds on human blood, leading to a series of darkly comedic events.
  • Ellen Greene plays Audrey, a florist who dreams of a better life and is the love interest of her coworker, Seymour.
  • Vincent Gardenia played Mr. Mushnik, the owner of the failing flower shop where the main character works and discovers a peculiar, carnivorous plant.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Little Shop of Horrors, the main conflict reaches a climax as Seymour realizes the true nature of the plant, Audrey II, which has grown increasingly demanding and sinister. After initially enjoying the fame and success brought by the plant, Seymour discovers that Audrey II requires human blood to thrive. The tension escalates when Audrey is captured by the plant, leading Seymour to confront the monstrous entity. In a desperate attempt to save Audrey, Seymour battles Audrey II, but ultimately, he is unable to defeat it. The film culminates in a dark twist as Audrey II triumphs, consuming Seymour and leaving destruction in its wake. The narrative resolves the central conflict of ambition versus morality, illustrating the consequences of unchecked desires and the dangers of succumbing to temptation. The ending serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the idea that striving for success without considering the ethical implications can lead to dire outcomes. The film concludes with a haunting vision of a world overrun by Audrey II's offspring, suggesting that the cycle of greed and destruction continues. This final scene reinforces the overarching themes of the story, highlighting the perils of ambition and the loss of innocence.

Frank Oz Comedy Horror Musical Rick Moranis Ellen Greene Vincent Gardenia