The Revenant
| 2015Directed by: Alejandro G. Iñárritu
Main Plot
The Revenant follows the harrowing journey of a frontiersman named Hugh Glass in the early 19th century. After being severely injured by a bear during a hunting expedition, Glass is left for dead by his expedition team. Despite his grave injuries, he survives and embarks on a relentless quest for survival and revenge against those who abandoned him. As he navigates the treacherous wilderness, Glass faces harsh elements, hostile Native American tribes, and his own inner demons. His determination to return to civilization and confront his betrayer drives him through a brutal landscape filled with challenges. The film explores themes of resilience, vengeance, and the struggle for survival in a harsh, unforgiving environment.
Characters
- Leonardo DiCaprio plays Hugh Glass, a frontiersman seeking revenge against those who left him for dead after a bear attack.
- Tom Hardy plays John Fitzgerald, a ruthless fur trapper who betrays the protagonist, leaving him for dead and killing his son, driving the protagonist's quest for revenge.
- Will Poulter plays Jim Bridger, a young trapper who abandons Hugh Glass, believing he wouldn't survive, which intensifies Glass's quest for revenge and survival.
Ending Explained
In the ending of The Revenant, Hugh Glass finally confronts John Fitzgerald after a harrowing journey of survival and revenge. After enduring extreme hardships, including bear attacks and near-fatal injuries, Glass tracks Fitzgerald to a remote camp. The tension culminates in a brutal confrontation where Glass, fueled by rage and the desire for justice, overpowers Fitzgerald. In their struggle, Glass has the opportunity to kill Fitzgerald but ultimately chooses to spare him, instead leaving him to face the elements. This decision reflects Glass's transformation throughout the film; he moves from a singular focus on vengeance to a recognition of the futility of such a path. The act of mercy signifies a deeper understanding of survival and humanity, contrasting with Fitzgerald's ruthless nature. The film concludes with Glass gazing into the distance, symbolizing his acceptance of loss and the harsh realities of life. The overarching narrative of survival, revenge, and the struggle against nature culminates in this moment, emphasizing themes of resilience and the human spirit. Glass's journey is not just about revenge but also about finding a sense of peace amidst the chaos, ultimately connecting him to the natural world and his own humanity.