Moll Flanders

| 1996

Directed by: Pen Densham

Main Plot

Moll Flanders follows the life of a resourceful and determined woman in 18th-century England. Born in a prison, Moll is raised in a world of hardship and struggle. As she grows up, she navigates a series of tumultuous relationships and societal challenges, driven by her desire for wealth and security. Throughout her journey, Moll marries multiple times, each union reflecting her quest for a better life. However, her choices often lead her into morally ambiguous situations, including theft and deception. As she travels across England and America, Moll's resilience is tested as she faces the consequences of her actions. The film explores themes of survival, love, and the pursuit of happiness in a society that often limits women's options. Ultimately, Moll's story is one of transformation and the relentless pursuit of a better future amidst adversity.

Characters

  • Robin Wright plays the titular character, Moll Flanders, a resilient woman navigating poverty, love, and crime in 18th-century England, seeking redemption and a better life.
  • Morgan Freeman plays Hibble, a compassionate servant who helps Moll navigate her tumultuous life, offering guidance and support throughout her journey.
  • Stockard Channing played Mrs. Allworthy, a brothel owner who influences Moll's life, guiding her through a world of crime and survival.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Moll Flanders, the protagonist finally confronts the consequences of her tumultuous life filled with crime, deceit, and survival. After a series of misadventures, including multiple marriages and thefts, Moll finds herself reflecting on her choices and the impact they have had on her life and those around her. The climax occurs when Moll, having experienced the highs and lows of her relentless pursuit of wealth and security, ultimately seeks redemption. She realizes that her quest for material gain has led her to a cycle of betrayal and loss. In a pivotal moment, she decides to turn her back on her past, seeking a more honest and fulfilling existence. The resolution comes as Moll embraces her true identity and seeks forgiveness, culminating in her reunion with her children. This moment symbolizes a break from her former life and a commitment to a more virtuous path. The ending reinforces the themes of redemption and the importance of family, illustrating that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in love and connection. Moll's journey concludes with a sense of hope, as she embarks on a new chapter, free from the burdens of her past.

Pen Densham Drama Romance Robin Wright Morgan Freeman Stockard Channing