Uglies ending, explained: 3 ‘pretty’ major questions answered

Uglies ending, explained: 3 'pretty' major questions answered

As a die-hard fan of dystopian fiction who’s spent countless hours immersed in the dark and twisted realms created by authors like Orwell, Atwood, and Westerfeld, I must say that the Netflix adaptation of “Uglies” was an absolute thrill ride!


On September 13th, the Netflix release of the film adaptation based on Scott Westerfeld’s popular novel “Uglies” became available. This McG-directed movie features Joey King, Chase Stokes, Keith Powers, and Laverne Cox in lead roles. The story is set in a future society where all teens are required to undergo a cosmetic procedure to transform into “beautiful” individuals.

However, when Tally’s friend Shay mysteriously vanishes just before her planned transformation, an exciting journey and brewing revolution ensues. The story of Uglies unfolds in a vibrant and intricate sci-fi setting brimming with unique laws and surprising turns.

If you’re left puzzling over aspects of the finale of Uglies, such as character deaths and transformations, and are curious if Netflix might create a follow-up, let’s delve into the juicy details (this is your final spoiler alert!).

Uglies ending, explained: 3 'pretty' major questions answered

Peris might have died, but maybe he didn’t?

In a crucial moment near the movie’s end, it’s a nail-biting situation as Peris (Chase Stokes) teeters on the edge of a precipice over tumultuous waters. Tally is frantically trying to assist her friend in this critical moment. As it seems like Peris was starting to recall his identity beyond the modifications done by Dr. Cable (Laverne Cox), there’s a heart-wrenching slip-up – Peris loses his grip and plunges off the cliff, leaving everyone to believe he met his end in the water below.

In the captivating novel, Uglies, I, as a devoted fan, witnessed an extraordinary metamorphosis in Peris. As he transitioned into a Pretty, our bond as friends seemed to wane, and his interactions with Tally weren’t as frequent as they should have been. The shift from being a Pretty to a Special wasn’t just physical; it altered him profoundly on an emotional level too. Once transformed into a Special, he was subjected to stringent mind control, essentially turning into a weapon. Although it remains uncertain if his current form would have succumbed to the fall, until a potential sequel provides clarity, for all intents and purposes, Peris appears to be no more.

Uglies ending, explained: 3 'pretty' major questions answered

Tally turns Pretty as a means to save the world

Towards the end of the film, Tally experiences quite a few extraordinary incidents during his undercover mission for Dr. Cable and the pursuit of Shay. Some aspects of the plot may seem confusing to certain spectators, but those who have read the book will find it easier to follow the narrative. In essence, there’s a straightforward central idea that serves as the foundation to grasp and remember.

David (Keith Powers) learned that individuals transforming into ‘Pretties’ might develop brain abnormalities enabling mind manipulation. Escaping the city, a remedy was devised but couldn’t be administered without the subject’s approval first. Intriguingly complex! Eventually, Tally elects to undergo transformation and become a Pretty herself to test the cure.

At the movie’s conclusion, Tally undergoes the Pretty treatment, now boasting golden hair and eyes she’d long desired. She resides in a luxurious flat within New Pretty Town, but there’s an eerie undertone amidst the elegance. Yet, her hand bears the scar she and Peris obtained as kids – a lingering reminder of their shared past. This final, startling disclosure hints that Tally isn’t entirely transformed and remains somewhat independent.

Uglies ending, explained: 3 'pretty' major questions answered

And of course… Should there be an Uglies sequel?

It’s clear that Westerfeld wrote additional books in the series beyond “Uglies”, such as “Pretties”, “Specials”, and “Extras”. The movie ending implies a potential continuation in a sequel, although it also serves as a fulfilling conclusion to the story. As of September 13th, Netflix hasn’t announced any plans for sequels to “Uglies” yet.

If Netflix hasn’t yet approved more Uglies sequels, then the chance that we’ll see Uglies 2 (or Pretties or another title) depends largely on viewers and viewership numbers. Unless the ratings are exceptionally high, negative reviews aren’t building a strong argument for a follow-up, so it seems unlikely that there will be one unless public interest increases significantly.

Watch Uglies only on Netflix.

Read More

2024-09-13 22:33