Main Plot
"The Snowman," directed by Tomas Alfredson, follows detective Harry Hole as he investigates the disappearance of a woman whose pink scarf is found wrapped around an ominous-looking snowman. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a series of similar disappearances and murders that span several years, all linked by the presence of snowmen at the crime scenes. With the help of a new recruit, Katrine Bratt, Harry races against time to connect the dots and stop the elusive killer before more lives are lost. The investigation becomes increasingly personal and dangerous, revealing dark secrets and testing Harry's resolve and detective skills.
Ending Explained
In the conclusion of "The Snowman," directed by Tomas Alfredson, the identity of the serial killer is revealed to be Mathias Lund-Helgesen, a seemingly unassuming doctor. Detective Harry Hole uncovers Mathias's traumatic past, which involved his mother abandoning him in the snow, leading to his pathological obsession with women who are unfaithful mothers. Mathias's modus operandi involves building snowmen at the crime scenes, symbolizing his childhood trauma.
The climax unfolds as Mathias kidnaps Rakel, Harry's ex-girlfriend, and her son Oleg, intending to kill them. Harry tracks them to a remote cabin, where a tense confrontation ensues. Mathias attempts to escape but falls through the ice on a frozen lake, ultimately drowning, thus ending his killing spree.
The film concludes with Harry reflecting on the case and its impact on his life. Despite solving the mystery, he remains haunted by the personal losses and the psychological toll of the investigation. The final scenes depict Harry ready to move forward, suggesting a semblance of closure and a renewed sense of purpose in his life.