The Snowman

| 2017

Directed by: Tomas Alfredson

Main Plot

The Snowman follows a detective named Harry Hole as he investigates a series of mysterious disappearances of women in Oslo, Norway, during the onset of winter. The case takes a chilling turn when a snowman is discovered at the scene of one of the disappearances, leading Hole to suspect a serial killer is at work. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a pattern linking the victims and begins to connect the dots between the past and present. With the help of a new recruit, Hole races against time to solve the case before more lives are lost. The investigation reveals dark secrets and personal demons, as the detective grapples with his own troubled past while trying to stop the elusive killer before the first snowfall. The film weaves together elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological drama against a stark, wintry backdrop.

Characters

  • Michael Fassbender plays Detective Harry Hole, who investigates a series of gruesome murders linked to a mysterious serial killer in a snowy Norwegian setting.
  • Rebecca Ferguson plays Katrine Bratt, a detective who partners with Harry Hole to investigate a series of grisly murders linked to a mysterious serial killer.
  • Charlotte Gainsbourg plays Rakel Fauke, the ex-girlfriend of the protagonist, Harry Hole. She becomes entangled in the investigation due to her personal connections.

Ending Explained

In the ending of The Snowman, the narrative culminates in a tense confrontation between the protagonist, a detective, and the elusive serial killer responsible for a series of murders linked to the titular snowman. Throughout the film, the detective has been piecing together clues that suggest the killer's identity and motives, leading him to a chilling realization about the personal connections involved. As the detective races against time to prevent another murder, he discovers that the killer has been manipulating events from the shadows, using the snowman as a signature for his crimes. The climax reveals the killer's identity, which is tied to the detective's own past, adding a layer of personal stakes to the resolution. In a dramatic showdown, the detective confronts the killer, leading to a violent and chaotic sequence that ultimately results in the killer's demise. The ending resolves the main conflict by bringing justice to the victims and allowing the detective to confront his own demons. However, the film leaves lingering questions about the impact of the events on the detective's psyche, emphasizing themes of guilt and the haunting nature of unresolved trauma. The narrative concludes on a somber note, reflecting the darkness that permeates the story.

Tomas Alfredson Crime Drama Mystery Michael Fassbender Rebecca Ferguson Charlotte Gainsbourg