Paper Moon

Main Plot

"Paper Moon," directed by Peter Bogdanovich, is a 1973 film set during the Great Depression. The story follows a con man named Moses Pray who reluctantly agrees to take a young girl, Addie Loggins, to her aunt's home after her mother's funeral. Addie, who may or may not be Moses' daughter, quickly proves to be a sharp and resourceful partner in his small-time scams. As they travel through the Midwest, the duo engages in various cons, forming an unlikely bond. Their journey is filled with humorous and poignant moments, highlighting themes of survival, trust, and the makeshift family they create. The film's black-and-white cinematography and period-accurate details enhance its nostalgic and authentic feel.

Characters

• Ryan O'Neal plays Moses Pray, a con man who teams up with a young girl, Addie, to swindle people during the Great Depression.
• Tatum O'Neal plays Addie Loggins, a young girl who partners with a con man, Moses Pray, to swindle people during the Great Depression.
• Madeline Kahn plays Trixie Delight, a charming con artist who complicates the relationship between the main characters, Addie and Moses, by becoming Moses' love interest.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of "Paper Moon," directed by Peter Bogdanovich, Addie Loggins and Moses "Moze" Pray's journey reaches a poignant resolution. After a series of cons and adventures during the Great Depression, Addie, a sharp-witted orphan, and Moze, a small-time con man who may be her father, face a turning point. Moze decides to leave Addie with her aunt in Missouri, believing she deserves a stable home. However, Addie, having grown attached to Moze and their unconventional partnership, refuses to stay. She runs away from her aunt's house and catches up with Moze, who is initially reluctant but ultimately accepts her back. The film closes with the two driving off together, suggesting that their bond, forged through their shared experiences and mutual reliance, will continue. This ending underscores the themes of family, loyalty, and survival, highlighting how unconventional relationships can provide a sense of belonging and purpose amidst hardship.