Victoria Mahoney, director of The Old Guard 2, recently revealed the reasoning behind the film’s cliffhanger ending in an interview. The sequel to the 2020 original, both films adapt the comic series by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández, with Rucka contributing to the screenplays for both installments.
Victoria Mahoney on The Old Guard 2’s Cliffhanger Ending
In an interview with The Direct, Mahoney explained that the film’s cliffhanger was designed to evoke “wonderment and hope and joy” among viewers. The story culminates in the death of Booker, portrayed by Matthias Schoenaerts, while Uma Thurman’s character, Discord, escapes after capturing Andy’s team, played by Charlize Theron. However, before the credits roll, Andy and Quynh (Veronica Ngô) reconcile and commit to rescuing their captured allies.
Mahoney reflected on discussions surrounding the film’s conclusion: “There were so many discussions about how we would leave audiences and what the strongest emotion to leave them with was. To some degree, that ending brings about wonderment and hope and joy.”
Emotional Intentions Behind The Old Guard 2 Ending
Taking over directorial duties from Gina Prince-Bythewood, who directed the first film, Mahoney emphasized that while other emotions are important, the blend of hope, joy, and wonderment was chosen to inspire audiences during challenging times. She stated, “I didn’t want to see a dark, gut-wrenching ending right now in a movie like this.”
Highlighting a pivotal scene, Mahoney shared her appreciation for the dynamic between the two characters, saying, “I enjoyed how those two actors were in that scene, and I enjoy how it’s cut together, and I enjoy when I watch it.”
Availability of The Old Guard 2
The Old Guard 2 is currently available for streaming on Netflix, continuing the story of immortal warriors facing new threats.