The Upside culminates in a poignant and hopeful conclusion where Philip Lacasse, a quadriplegic billionaire, finds a renewed zest for life, and Dell Scott, his formerly incarcerated caretaker, discovers purpose and a brighter future. The film ultimately emphasizes the unlikely yet profound bond forged between two men from vastly different backgrounds, showcasing the transformative power of human connection.
The Final Scenes: A Breath of Fresh Air
The ending of The Upside, directed by Neil Burger, is designed to leave audiences feeling optimistic and inspired. After a tumultuous period of personal growth for both protagonists, the film gracefully weaves their individual journeys together, highlighting the enduring strength of their unexpected friendship.
Philip’s Journey to Independence and Acceptance
Philip, played by Bryan Cranston, initially hires Dell (Kevin Hart) as his caretaker on a whim, drawn to his candor and lack of pity. Over time, Dell’s unconventional approach to caregiving – pushing Philip beyond his comfort zone and encouraging him to embrace life’s possibilities – allows Philip to rediscover joy and overcome his deep-seated grief over the loss of his wife.
The ending shows Philip, having undergone a life-altering spinal surgery, finally regaining partial use of his arms. This physical improvement symbolizes his emotional and spiritual healing. He also reconnects with Lily, his pen pal and former love interest (played by Nicole Kidman), leading to a tender and hopeful romantic relationship. This represents Philip letting go of the past and embracing the potential for future happiness.
Dell’s Path to Redemption and Success
Dell, meanwhile, evolves from a struggling parolee to a responsible and motivated individual. He develops genuine empathy for Philip and takes pride in his work. The ending sees Dell successfully navigating the challenges of his parole, reconciling with his ex-wife Latrice and son Anthony, and starting his own carpentry business, fulfilling his lifelong dream. This signifies his commitment to a better life and his dedication to his family.
The Power of Unlikely Friendship
The final scene encapsulates the core message of the film: the transformative power of genuine human connection. Dell takes Philip on an exhilarating ride in his newly built custom motorcycle, a testament to their enduring friendship and mutual respect. They share laughter and a sense of freedom, reinforcing the idea that even in the face of adversity, life can be filled with joy and purpose. This shared experience underscores the reciprocal nature of their relationship, where each man has profoundly impacted the other’s life for the better.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Upside Ending
Here are some common questions viewers have about the ending of The Upside, providing further insight into the film’s themes and character arcs.
H3: 1. Does Philip Lacasse actually die in The Upside?
No, Philip Lacasse does not die in The Upside. The film concludes with him experiencing significant improvements in his health and embarking on a new romantic relationship with Lily. His survival and thriving are central to the film’s optimistic message.
H3: 2. What is the significance of Philip regaining movement in his arms?
Philip regaining partial use of his arms after surgery is a powerful symbol of his overall healing. It represents his renewed sense of hope and his ability to embrace life with renewed energy. It’s a visual representation of his emotional breakthrough and willingness to move forward.
H3: 3. Why does Dell take Philip for a motorcycle ride at the end?
The motorcycle ride is a symbolic gesture of freedom and adventure. Dell, having helped Philip rediscover his zest for life, takes him on the ride as a celebration of their friendship and Philip’s newfound independence. It’s a culmination of their journey together and a symbol of breaking free from limitations.
H3: 4. Does Dell go back to jail at the end of The Upside?
No, Dell does not go back to jail. He successfully completes his parole and demonstrates his commitment to living a law-abiding life. His positive actions and his dedication to his work and family help him stay on the right path.
H3: 5. What happens to Dell’s relationship with his ex-wife and son?
Dell reconciles with his ex-wife, Latrice, and his son, Anthony. He actively works to be a better father and husband, and the ending suggests that their relationship is on a path to healing and rebuilding. This family reconciliation is a key element of Dell’s personal redemption.
H3: 6. Why did Philip choose Dell as his caretaker in the first place?
Philip was drawn to Dell’s lack of pity and his unfiltered honesty. He was tired of being treated with kid gloves and appreciated Dell’s willingness to challenge him and treat him like a regular person. Philip wanted someone who would help him rediscover his passion for life, and he saw that potential in Dell.
H3: 7. Is The Upside based on a true story?
Yes, The Upside is based on the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou, as detailed in Philippe’s memoir, Le Second Souffle (A Second Wind). The film is an adaptation of their real-life experiences and the unlikely friendship that blossomed between them. While liberties are taken for cinematic effect, the core narrative remains rooted in reality.
H3: 8. What is the significance of the opera scene in The Upside?
The opera scene is significant because it introduces Dell to a world he knows nothing about, expanding his horizons and exposing him to high culture. It also allows Philip to share a passion with Dell and further bridge the gap between their vastly different backgrounds. This scene demonstrates the transformative power of shared experiences.
H3: 9. What are the main themes explored in The Upside?
The main themes explored in The Upside include: the power of friendship, overcoming adversity, finding purpose, personal growth, and the importance of human connection. The film examines how individuals from different backgrounds can enrich each other’s lives and inspire positive change. Ultimately, it’s a story about hope and the potential for redemption.
H3: 10. How does the film portray disability?
While The Upside has faced criticism for its portrayal of disability, particularly the casting of Bryan Cranston, it also aims to show Philip as a complex individual with desires and frustrations. The film explores the challenges he faces but also highlights his resilience and determination to live a full life. It sparks a conversation about representation and the importance of authentic portrayals of disability in media.
H3: 11. What role does Yvonne (Philip’s head of operations) play in the movie’s ending?
Yvonne (played by Golshifteh Farahani) serves as a grounding presence throughout the film. In the ending, she represents stability and unwavering support for both Philip and Dell. Her presence highlights the importance of a strong support system in navigating life’s challenges. She provides a sense of continuity and reassurance.
H3: 12. What is the overall message of The Upside?
The overall message of The Upside is that unexpected friendships can be transformative and that even in the face of adversity, life can be filled with joy, purpose, and hope. It celebrates the human spirit and the power of connection to overcome obstacles and find meaning in life. The film underscores the importance of looking beyond superficial differences and embracing the potential for positive change in ourselves and others.