The ending of the movie “House of Hummingbird” is a poignant and thought-provoking conclusion to a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story. Directed by Kim Bora, the film takes place in Seoul, South Korea, in the year 1994, and follows the life of a 14-year-old girl named Eun-hee.

Throughout the movie, Eun-hee navigates the challenges of adolescence, dealing with family issues, school pressures, and the search for her own identity. She finds solace in her friendship with Ji-sook, a fellow student who becomes her confidante and source of support. However, as the story progresses, Eun-hee’s relationships become strained, and she is left feeling isolated and misunderstood.

In the final scenes of the movie, Eun-hee’s world is turned upside down when she discovers that her father has been having an affair. This revelation shatters her already fragile sense of security and trust in her family. She confronts her father, expressing her anger and disappointment, but he dismisses her feelings, further deepening her emotional turmoil.

As Eun-hee grapples with the aftermath of her father’s betrayal, she also faces the impending closure of her school. The building is set to be demolished, symbolizing the end of an era and the loss of a familiar and comforting environment. This event serves as a metaphor for the changes and uncertainties that Eun-hee is experiencing in her own life.

In the midst of these challenges, Eun-hee finds solace in her relationship with Ji-sook. The two friends share a tender moment, where Ji-sook expresses her love and appreciation for Eun-hee. This moment of connection and understanding provides Eun-hee with a glimmer of hope and reassurance that she is not alone.

The movie concludes with Eun-hee attending a school dance. As she dances with her classmates, she reflects on the ups and downs of her journey and the lessons she has learned along the way. The dance scene is a powerful representation of Eun-hee’s resilience and ability to find joy amidst adversity.

In the final shot of the movie, Eun-hee gazes out into the distance, contemplating her future. The camera lingers on her face, capturing a mix of determination, vulnerability, and hope. This open-ended conclusion leaves the audience with a sense of anticipation and curiosity about what lies ahead for Eun-hee.

The ending of “House of Hummingbird” is a masterful blend of realism and ambiguity. It does not neatly tie up all loose ends or provide easy answers. Instead, it invites the audience to reflect on the complexities of life and the challenges of growing up.

One interpretation of the ending is that Eun-hee’s journey is far from over. The open-ended nature of the final shot suggests that there is still much for her to discover and navigate in her life. It leaves room for the audience to imagine various possibilities for her future, whether it be finding love, pursuing her dreams, or simply finding happiness and contentment.

Another interpretation is that the ending represents a turning point for Eun-hee. Throughout the movie, she has been searching for her place in the world and struggling to find her voice. The final scenes, with Eun-hee standing strong and reflective, suggest that she has grown and matured through her experiences. She has learned to assert herself, confront her emotions, and find strength in her relationships.

The ending also highlights the theme of resilience and the power of human connection. Despite the challenges she faces, Eun-hee finds solace and support in her friendship with Ji-sook. Their bond serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for love, understanding, and healing.

In conclusion, the ending of “House of Hummingbird” is a powerful and evocative conclusion to a coming-of-age story. It leaves the audience with a sense of hope and anticipation for Eun-hee’s future, while also acknowledging the complexities and uncertainties of life. Through its realistic portrayal of adolescence and its exploration of themes such as family, friendship, and resilience, the movie resonates with viewers and prompts reflection on their own journeys of self-discovery.