The movie The Fault in Our Stars concludes with the profoundly moving death of Augustus Waters, followed by Hazel Grace Lancaster reading the eulogy he wrote for her before his passing. It’s a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the enduring power of love in the face of unimaginable loss.
The Closing Scene: Augustus’s Departure
The ending of The Fault in Our Stars is perhaps one of the most emotionally impactful scenes in modern romantic drama. It centers around the pre-planned memorial service Augustus had arranged for himself. Knowing his end was near, Augustus, with the help of Isaac, orchestrated a funeral where his friends and loved ones could share their feelings and memories while he was still alive, in a sense, to witness it.
Hazel, devastated by his deteriorating health, delivers a powerful eulogy. She speaks of the profound impact Augustus had on her life, how he showed her the beauty in the world even amidst suffering, and how he taught her the true meaning of unconditional love. She emphasizes that while their time together was short, it was infinitely valuable and filled with moments that she would cherish forever. The scene closes with Hazel reading a letter Augustus wrote for her, revealing his reflections on life, love, and his desire to be remembered well. This final letter solidifies Augustus’s enduring influence on Hazel’s life, even after his death. The film ends leaving the audience to contemplate the ephemerality of existence and the everlasting mark individuals can leave on each other’s hearts.
Unraveling the FAQs About the Ending
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide further context and understanding of the complex emotions and plot points surrounding the ending of The Fault in Our Stars.
H3: What Happens to Hazel After Augustus Dies?
Following Augustus’s death, Hazel is understandably heartbroken. The film subtly suggests that she grieves, processes her loss, and eventually begins to heal, carrying Augustus’s memory with her. While the film doesn’t explicitly show her future, the ending emphasizes the lasting impact of their love. Hazel recognizes the “infinite within the finite” – the profound meaning and beauty found within their limited time together. The final scene indicates that Hazel has accepted Augustus’s death, finding solace in the love they shared and the knowledge that she was deeply loved in return. This, arguably, sets her on a path towards a future filled with hope and appreciation for life.
H3: What Did Augustus Write in His Letter to Hazel?
Augustus’s letter to Hazel is the culmination of his philosophical musings throughout the movie. He reflects on his desire to be a good person, to leave a mark on the world, and to be remembered fondly. Crucially, he expresses that his life had meaning simply because he loved Hazel and was loved by her. He acknowledges the pain of his death but insists that it doesn’t negate the beauty and significance of their relationship. He essentially affirms that their love story, despite its tragic brevity, was a worthwhile and fulfilling experience. The “little infinity” they shared, as he calls it, was enough.
H3: Why Did Augustus Plan His Own Funeral?
Augustus planned his own funeral because he wanted to be able to hear what people would say about him while he was still alive. He craved affirmation that he had made a difference, however small, in the lives of those around him. He yearned to understand how he would be remembered and to receive the comfort of knowing that he was loved and appreciated. Planning the funeral gave him a sense of control in the face of his inevitable death and allowed him to create a space for shared grief and celebration of his life. It was his way of leaving a lasting legacy and ensuring that his loved ones would have a chance to express their emotions and memories. It also gave Hazel and Isaac a chance to practice delivering their eulogies, a particularly devastating scene in the movie.
H3: How Does Isaac React to Augustus’s Death?
Isaac, Augustus’s best friend, is deeply affected by his passing. Having already endured his own struggles with cancer and blindness, the loss of Augustus further compounds his grief. While the film doesn’t explicitly showcase Isaac’s reaction in detail, it’s implied that he provides support to Hazel and finds solace in their shared loss. Isaac, also played a key role in helping Augustus organize the pre-funeral service, which is suggestive of his love and respect for Augustus and his acceptance of the impending death.
H3: What Role Does Peter Van Houten Play in the Ending?
Peter Van Houten, the reclusive author of Hazel’s favorite book, An Imperial Affliction, reappears at Augustus’s funeral. He is visibly remorseful for his past behavior and attempts to connect with Hazel. While their interaction is brief, it suggests that Van Houten is grappling with his own grief and regret. He recognizes the profound impact of his book on Hazel and Augustus and understands the pain they endured. His presence at the funeral serves as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the potential for redemption, even in the face of loss.
H3: Is There a Sense of Hope at the Very End of the Movie?
Despite the overwhelming sadness, the ending carries a subtle undercurrent of hope. Hazel’s ability to find solace in Augustus’s letter and to cherish the memories they shared suggests a path toward healing and acceptance. The film implies that while grief is inevitable, it doesn’t have to define one’s life. Hazel learns to appreciate the present moment and to find beauty in the face of adversity. The film leaves the audience with the understanding that even in the darkest of times, love and connection can provide strength and resilience.
H3: What is the Significance of the Cigarette Metaphor?
Augustus’s persistent habit of putting unlit cigarettes in his mouth is a central metaphor throughout the film. He explains that he enjoys the act of holding the cigarette between his lips but doesn’t actually light it, symbolizing his desire to control death and to deny it power over him. The unlit cigarette represents Augustus’s refusal to give in to cancer and his attempt to assert agency over his own life. It is a reminder that he is choosing not to give cancer what it wants, a symbolic act of defiance.
H3: What Does “Okay? Okay.” Mean?
The phrase “Okay? Okay.” becomes a significant affirmation of love and understanding between Hazel and Augustus. It’s a simple yet powerful expression of their commitment to each other, representing their willingness to accept each other’s flaws and vulnerabilities. It is a mantra, a promise to be there for each other, and a quiet acknowledgement of their shared experiences with cancer. It embodies the “perfectly acceptable” love they share, imperfections and all.
H3: What is the Overall Message of the Film’s Ending?
The film’s ending delivers a powerful message about the enduring power of love, the importance of cherishing life, and the acceptance of mortality. It acknowledges the pain and grief associated with loss but emphasizes the importance of finding meaning and beauty in the present moment. It suggests that while death is inevitable, the love and connections we forge with others can transcend physical limitations and leave a lasting impact on our lives. It champions finding “the infinite within the numbered days”.
H3: How Faithful is the Movie’s Ending to the Book’s Ending?
The movie’s ending is largely faithful to the book’s ending, capturing the essential emotional beats and plot points. Both the film and the novel depict Augustus’s death, Hazel’s eulogy, and the reading of his letter. While some minor details may differ, the overall message and emotional impact remain consistent between the two mediums.
H3: Is There a Post-Credits Scene in The Fault in Our Stars?
No, there is no post-credits scene in The Fault in Our Stars. The film concludes with Hazel reading Augustus’s letter, leaving the audience to reflect on the themes and emotions explored throughout the story. The absence of a post-credits scene reinforces the film’s focus on the immediate impact of loss and the importance of cherishing the present moment.
H3: Why is the Ending so Emotional for Viewers?
The ending of The Fault in Our Stars is so emotionally resonant because it taps into universal themes of love, loss, and mortality. The characters are relatable, their struggles are authentic, and their emotions are raw and vulnerable. The film confronts viewers with the fragility of life and the inevitability of death, prompting them to contemplate their own mortality and the importance of cherishing their relationships. The film’s masterful storytelling and compelling performances create a deeply empathetic experience, leaving a lasting impact on the audience long after the credits roll. Ultimately, it’s a beautiful, albeit heartbreaking, testament to the power of human connection.