Se7en’s Darker Ending: Somerset’s Shocking Role in the Final Sin Revealed!

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The surprising finale of “Se7en” is what makes it so memorable, but it was never as initially planned. “Se7en” is one of David Fincher’s finest works, demonstrating his talent for crime stories. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman offer captivating performances as a detective duo pursuing a serial killer. The peculiarities of the murders provide an opportunity for Fincher to delve deeper into criminal psychology. Despite undergoing revisions during filming, the climactic twist in “Se7en” serves as a fitting conclusion to the story, showcasing its brilliance.

In the climax of Se7en, John Doe carries out the final act of his scheme by surrendering, unveiling that he had previously murdered Mills’ wife. By stirring up Mills’ jealousy and channeling his anger, John Doe fulfills his objective to carry out seven murders in accordance with the Seven Deadly Sins from the Bible. This chilling and typically grim ending concludes a dark and twisted thriller. However, it was not the initial plan; Fincher and his crew deliberated over several alternative ideas during production, one of which was even more unsettling.

Se7en Was Originally Supposed To End With Detective Somerset Committing The Final Sin

Somerset Was Supposed To Be The One To Kill Doe, Not Mills

In an alternate ending for the movie Se7en, Somerset instead chose to shoot John Doe rather than trying to persuade Mills. This twist is dramatically different from his actions in the actual film ending, leaving it unclear how this scenario might have unfolded. Whether this move was a symbolic act to deny John Doe his triumph or a means of shielding Mills from legal consequences, it would have been a surprising shift to witness Somerset transform into a killer during the climactic scene, given his calm and prudent character throughout the movie.

This ending could have been more ominous than the one ultimately chosen for Se7en. While Mills is quick to let his feelings overpower him, Somerset tends to be more rational. Implying that Somerset might also succumb to John Doe’s manipulation implies that no one is immune to corruption and that even the strongest can be swayed under extreme circumstances. On a different note, withholding Mills’ moment of ill-advised release, his catharsis, would leave his narrative feeling unfinished as he wouldn’t even have the solace of revenge.

There were various alternate conclusions under consideration before Fincher finally decided on Mills killing John Doe as the ending for Se7en. These options ranged from a more conventional Hollywood finale where Somerset and Mills save Tracy, to a surprising twist where the head in the box belonged to Mills’ dog. Brad Pitt strongly advocated for keeping the original ending of Se7en unchanged, and it appears that this was the right decision. While these other possibilities were never shot, they could have compromised the entire movie at the very last moment.

Why Se7en’s Actual Ending Is Better Than The Cut Ending

The Real Ending Feels More Complete

In a more poetic turn than any other potential endings for the film “Se7en”, Mills, driven by his primal need for revenge over his wife’s death, is unable to resist and ultimately succumbs. This suggests that John Doe had meticulously planned his actions, which underscores the sobering truth that human behavior can be remarkably predictable.

John Doe’s thesis is that everyone is tainted by sin, and in his distorted state of mind, he can easily foresee Mills’ reaction. This idea ties back to Doe’s warped interpretation of the Old Testament, completing the circle, and painting “Se7en” as a moral struggle where good battles evil, orchestrated by an all-knowing higher power.

Altering the narrative so that Somerset kills Doe would have significantly shifted the story’s tone and message.

The original ending of the movie “Se7en” leaves a lasting impression on viewers even long after the credits have finished rolling. Although having Somerset shoot Doe might have been more impactful at the time, it wouldn’t have carried the same darkly fulfilling feeling and may not be as widely discussed today as “Se7en” is now. The storylines of Mills and Somerset would feel incomplete with an alternate ending, and Somerset’s character arc would take a sharp turn that doesn’t align with his established persona. Thankfully, Fincher stuck to his vision, resulting in the movie being recognized as a timeless classic in the crime thriller genre. Altering the ending could potentially tarnish this esteemed reputation.

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2025-05-31 23:27