The Changeling

Main Plot

"The Changeling," directed by Peter Medak, follows John Russell, a composer who relocates to a secluded mansion in Seattle after the tragic death of his wife and daughter. Seeking solace, he soon discovers that the house is haunted by the restless spirit of a young boy. As supernatural occurrences escalate, John delves into the mansion's dark history, uncovering a web of deceit, murder, and a long-buried secret involving a powerful local family. With the help of a historian, Claire Norman, John pieces together the mystery, driven by the ghost's need for justice and resolution. The film blends psychological horror with a compelling investigation, creating a chilling atmosphere.

Characters

• George C. Scott plays John Russell, a grieving composer who uncovers a haunting mystery in his new mansion, driving the film's supernatural investigation.
• Trish Van Devere plays Claire Norman, a historical society member who helps uncover the mystery behind the haunted mansion and supports the protagonist in his investigation.
• Melvyn Douglas plays Senator Joseph Carmichael, a key figure whose dark past is central to the mystery and supernatural events unraveling in the story.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of Peter Medak's film "The Changeling," the protagonist, John Russell, uncovers the dark truth behind the haunting of his rented mansion. He discovers that the spirit of a young boy named Joseph Carmichael, who was murdered by his father in 1906, is seeking justice. The father had killed Joseph to replace him with a healthy orphan, ensuring the family fortune remained intact. The orphan, now an elderly Senator Joseph Carmichael, has lived his life unaware of his true identity. John confronts Senator Carmichael with the evidence, including a music box and a medal that belonged to the real Joseph. The Senator, shaken by the revelation, returns to the mansion. Meanwhile, supernatural events escalate, leading to the house catching fire. The spirit of Joseph finally finds peace as the mansion burns down, symbolizing the end of his torment. The film concludes with John escaping the inferno, and the Senator dying of a heart attack, suggesting that the truth has ultimately brought retribution and closure to both the living and the dead.