The Little Things

Main Plot

The Little Things follows a former Los Angeles deputy sheriff, now a small-town deputy, who is called to assist in a serial murder investigation. As he delves deeper into the case, he becomes embroiled in a complex web of clues and psychological tension. The investigation is led by a current detective who is determined to catch the elusive killer, but the two men find themselves at odds due to their differing methods and philosophies. As they sift through evidence and confront their own pasts, they uncover dark secrets that challenge their understanding of justice. The film explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the moral ambiguities of law enforcement, ultimately leading them to confront the haunting nature of their pursuit. The narrative unfolds with a sense of urgency and tension, revealing the impact of the past on the present.

Characters

• Denzel Washington plays Joe "Deke" Deacon, a Kern County deputy sheriff who teams up with a detective to solve a series of murders in Los Angeles.
• Rami Malek plays Detective Jim Baxter, a young, ambitious detective who partners with a veteran to solve a series of gruesome murders.
• Jared Leto plays Albert Sparma, a suspect in a series of murders. His character's eerie demeanor and cryptic behavior intensify the investigation's tension.

Ending Explained

In the ending of The Little Things, the tension culminates as Deke, a former detective, takes matters into his own hands to resolve the case of a serial killer. After gathering evidence against a suspect, he confronts him in a secluded area. Deke's actions blur the lines between justice and morality, as he decides to plant evidence to ensure the suspect is implicated, despite the lack of concrete proof. The climax reveals Deke's internal struggle and the weight of his past failures, particularly regarding a previous case that haunts him. The film concludes ambiguously, with Deke's decision to cover up the truth, suggesting that he believes the ends justify the means. The final scenes show him driving away, leaving viewers questioning the nature of justice and the psychological toll on those who pursue it. Ultimately, the ending reinforces the film's themes of obsession, guilt, and the complexities of law enforcement. Deke's actions provide a temporary resolution to the case but also highlight the moral compromises made in the pursuit of closure. The narrative leaves an unsettling impression, emphasizing that sometimes the truth is obscured by the very systems meant to uphold it.