Destroyer is a gripping crime thriller directed by Karyn Kusama and released in 2018. The film follows the story of Erin Bell, a hardened detective haunted by her past. As the movie progresses, Erin’s journey takes her on a path of redemption and self-discovery, ultimately leading to a shocking and thought-provoking ending.
The film begins with Erin Bell, played by Nicole Kidman, being called to a crime scene where a dead body is found. This event triggers a series of flashbacks that take us back to Erin’s undercover operation years ago. We learn that Erin was once part of an undercover FBI operation targeting a gang led by Silas, played by Toby Kebbell.
As the story unfolds, we witness Erin’s transformation from a young and idealistic officer to a broken and damaged woman. The undercover operation takes a toll on her both physically and emotionally, leading to the disintegration of her personal life. Erin’s relationship with her daughter Shelby, played by Jade Pettyjohn, becomes strained, and she becomes estranged from her husband Ethan, played by Scoot McNairy.
The present-day investigation leads Erin to believe that Silas has resurfaced, and she becomes determined to bring him down once and for all. She embarks on a relentless pursuit, reconnecting with old contacts and revisiting past locations. Along the way, she encounters a series of obstacles and dangerous situations, but her determination remains unwavering.
As Erin gets closer to Silas, she discovers that he is planning a bank heist. She infiltrates his gang and becomes involved in the planning and execution of the robbery. However, her true motive is to gather evidence against Silas and ensure his capture. Erin’s actions become increasingly risky, and she puts herself in grave danger to achieve her goal.
In a climactic sequence, the bank heist goes awry, and a shootout ensues. Erin manages to apprehend Silas, but not without sustaining severe injuries. As she lies wounded on the ground, she reflects on the choices she has made and the consequences they have had on her life. It is at this moment that the film takes a surprising turn.
In a flashback, we learn that Erin had a partner during her undercover operation named Chris, played by Sebastian Stan. Chris was not just her partner but also her lover. However, their relationship became strained due to the pressures of the operation, and Chris ultimately betrayed Erin, leading to a tragic event that changed the course of her life.
The revelation of Chris’s betrayal adds a new layer of complexity to Erin’s character. It explains her relentless pursuit of Silas and her willingness to risk everything to bring him down. Erin’s actions are driven not only by a desire for justice but also by a need for closure and revenge.
In the final moments of the film, Erin confronts Chris, who is now a high-ranking member of the police force. She reveals her knowledge of his betrayal and demands answers. Chris, visibly shaken, tries to justify his actions, but Erin is not satisfied. She shoots him, delivering her own form of justice.
The film ends with Erin walking away from the scene, wounded but triumphant. She has finally avenged the betrayal that haunted her for years. However, the ending leaves us with a sense of ambiguity. While Erin has achieved her goal, it is unclear what the future holds for her. Will she find redemption and rebuild her life, or will she continue to be consumed by her past?
Destroyer is a film that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. The ending leaves the audience with a mix of emotions, questioning the morality of Erin’s choices while also empathizing with her pain and trauma. It is a thought-provoking conclusion that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, Destroyer is a gripping crime thriller that takes viewers on a dark and intense journey. The ending, with its shocking revelations and ambiguous resolution, adds depth to the story and leaves the audience pondering the complexities of the human psyche. With stellar performances from Nicole Kidman and a compelling narrative, Destroyer is a must-watch film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
