What does the end of collateral beauty mean?

Answered by Antonio Sutton

The end of Collateral Beauty signifies a significant turning point in Howard’s journey of healing and acceptance. Throughout the film, we witness Howard’s immense pain and grief following the tragic loss of his daughter. He becomes consumed by his sorrow, and his perception of the world is distorted by his overwhelming emotions. However, as the story progresses, Howard starts to find solace and meaning in unexpected places.

One of the key elements that contribute to the end of Collateral Beauty is Howard’s relationship with Madeline, a fellow support group member who is also coping with her own loss. Madeline’s presence in Howard’s life brings a sense of understanding and companionship that he desperately needs. Their connection allows them to share their pain and support each other in the healing process. Madeline becomes a beacon of light for Howard, guiding him towards acceptance and helping him find his collateral beauty.

Furthermore, Howard’s own self-will plays a crucial role in his transformation. He makes a conscious decision to confront his pain and embrace the collateral beauty that exists alongside his grief. Instead of allowing himself to be consumed by his loss, Howard chooses to find meaning in the connections he has with others and the beauty that still exists in the world. This newfound perspective allows him to move forward and let go of the past, ultimately leading to his emotional healing.

Love, death, and time, which initially torment Howard’s mind, no longer hold him captive. These abstract concepts, personified in the film, lose their power over him as he finds his own sense of purpose and meaning beyond his grief. Howard’s journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of immense pain and loss, there is always a potential for healing and rediscovering the beauty that exists in life.

The end of Collateral Beauty signifies Howard’s transformation from a broken and grief-stricken individual to someone who has found his collateral beauty. Through his relationship with Madeline and his own self-will, Howard is able to move past his pain and embrace the beauty that still exists in the world. Love, death, and time no longer dominate his thoughts, allowing him to finally find solace and move forward in his healing journey.