The final episode of The 100, titled “The Last War,” aired on September 30, 2020, marking the end of its seven-season run. This culmination brought to a close the complex and morally ambiguous saga of survival, leadership, and the enduring search for home, even in the face of constant adversity.
The End of an Era: Season 7 and “The Last War”
The 100 captivated audiences with its gritty realism, compelling characters, and willingness to explore the darkest corners of human nature when pushed to the brink. After seven seasons of navigating nuclear apocalypses, intergalactic conflicts, and internal strife, the series wrapped up with a finale that aimed to provide closure, albeit with mixed reactions from fans. The final season was particularly divisive, but understanding its context is crucial to appreciating the concluding episode.
Setting the Stage for the Finale
Season 7 explored the mystery surrounding the Anomaly Stones and the various time-dilated planets they connected to. This led the characters on a journey to assess the Transcendence test offered by the mysterious higher beings, represented primarily by the Judge. This judge would decide whether humanity was worthy of joining their collective consciousness or destined to be erased. The season was filled with twists and turns, introducing new factions, facing familiar enemies, and ultimately building to the final confrontation: “The Last War.”
“The Last War”: A Deeper Dive
The episode title itself is laden with irony, as it wasn’t a war of physical combat but a test of character and leadership. Clarke Griffin, driven by her unwavering protectiveness of Madi, nearly jeopardized humanity’s chances by assassinating Sheidheda, believing him to be the primary obstacle to peace. This act ultimately triggered the Transcendence test, with Clarke herself being the representative of humanity. Despite initially failing, Raven Reyes’s actions and Octavia Blake’s influence in uniting warring factions convinced the Judge that humanity deserved another chance. Many characters chose to Transcend, leaving behind their individual identities to become part of the collective consciousness. However, a select few, including Clarke, Bellamy’s sister Octavia, Raven, Murphy, Emori, Echo, Miller, Jackson, and Jordan (who chose to return from transcendence), were granted the opportunity to live out their lives on Earth, free from the cycles of violence and conflict. It was the end of the war, and potentially the start of true peace for a chosen few.
Unraveling the Mysteries: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the series finale and the broader context of The 100‘s conclusion:
Why did The 100 end after seven seasons?
The showrunner, Jason Rothenberg, stated that the decision to end the series after seven seasons was a collaborative one between the writers, the network (The CW), and Warner Bros. Television. While ratings were still decent, Rothenberg had a specific story arc in mind, and he felt seven seasons was the right length to tell that story without stretching it thin. He wanted to ensure the show ended on its own terms and with a planned conclusion.
Was there supposed to be a spin-off series?
Yes, there was a planned prequel spin-off series that would have explored the events leading up to the initial nuclear apocalypse that ravaged Earth. The pilot episode was embedded within the seventh season of The 100. However, despite initial enthusiasm, The CW ultimately decided not to move forward with the prequel series, citing various factors, including the network’s evolving priorities and the perceived lack of strong audience connection to the prequel concept.
What were the biggest criticisms of Season 7 and the finale?
Common criticisms included the complex and sometimes confusing mythology surrounding the Anomaly Stones and Transcendence, the perceived sidelining of some fan-favorite characters, and the divisive fate of certain characters (most notably Bellamy Blake). Some viewers felt the ending was rushed and didn’t adequately address all the lingering plot threads. Many expressed disappointment with Clarke’s near loss of transcendence for all humanity, which was reversed ultimately by Raven and Octavia.
Why was Bellamy killed off?
Bellamy’s death was arguably the most controversial aspect of the final season. The actor, Bob Morley, reportedly wanted to take some time off from the show, and the writers decided to kill off his character in a way that would have significant emotional impact on Clarke and the other characters. However, many fans felt that Bellamy’s death was poorly executed, served only as a plot device, and was out of character for someone who had been so instrumental in the group’s survival.
What is Transcendence and why did some characters choose it?
Transcendence is presented as a higher state of being where individuals relinquish their individual identities and join a collective consciousness. The motivation for choosing Transcendence varied between characters. Some, like Indra, chose it believing it offered a better future for humanity, free from conflict and suffering. Others, like Madi, were pressured to choose it to keep her safe from conflict. However, the ending highlighted that remaining in physical form allowed for a more organic and self-directed path toward peace and compassion.
What happened to Madi in the end?
Madi chose to Transcend to escape the pain of her memories being forcibly extracted by Cadogan. This decision deeply affected Clarke, as it meant Madi would no longer have an individual existence. The final scene implies that Madi’s consciousness is aware of Clarke’s presence on Earth, but their relationship is now fundamentally different.
What was the significance of the final scene?
The final scene, showing Clarke and the remaining members of her chosen family living peacefully on Earth, offered a bittersweet resolution. It suggested that true peace can be achieved not through enforced conformity (as represented by Transcendence), but through embracing individual differences and choosing to live together in harmony. It was a rejection of the perpetual cycle of violence that had plagued the characters throughout the series.
Did all the characters who Transcended have a choice?
The show strongly implies that the decision to Transcend was presented as a choice, but the circumstances surrounding that choice were often complex and coercive. Individuals were often pressured by the prospect of safety, the belief that Transcendence was the only path to salvation, or the influence of charismatic leaders like Cadogan. The ambiguous nature of the choice sparked much debate among viewers.
What were the original plans for the ending?
Showrunner Jason Rothenberg has alluded to the fact that the ending evolved throughout the writing process. The decision to kill off Bellamy and the specific details of Transcendence were not necessarily part of the initial plan. The creative process was influenced by various factors, including actor availability, network feedback, and the overall direction of the season.
What lessons did The 100 try to convey?
The 100 explored complex themes such as the nature of morality, the consequences of violence, the importance of leadership, and the enduring human desire for connection and belonging. The series often challenged viewers to consider difficult questions about what it means to survive, what sacrifices are justifiable, and whether true peace is ever attainable. The importance of remembering past mistakes, avoiding repeated cycles of destruction, and choosing hope were crucial elements.
Will there ever be a reboot or revival of The 100?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a reboot or revival of The 100. While the possibility remains open in the future, given the current media landscape, the network’s previous decision to cancel the prequel series suggests that any potential continuation is unlikely in the near future. However, fan interest remains strong, and the popularity of the series on streaming platforms could potentially reignite interest in a revival at some point.
Is The 100 worth watching?
Despite its divisive final season, The 100 is widely considered a compelling and thought-provoking science fiction series. Its strong characters, intricate plotlines, and willingness to tackle difficult moral questions make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. The early seasons, in particular, are highly regarded for their suspenseful storytelling and nuanced character development. While the later seasons may be more controversial, the show’s overall impact and its exploration of complex themes make it a significant contribution to the science fiction television landscape.