Color Purple 2023 Ending Explained

Celie finds peace and independence from her abusive husband, Mister, after discovering her true identity and opening her own business.

The 2023 film adaptation of The Color Purple, directed by Blitz Bazawule, brings a refreshing and hopeful conclusion to Celie's traumatic journey. Based on Alice Walker's novel, the film combines elements from the Broadway musical and the book, providing a new perspective on Celie's story. Celie finally finds peace and independence from her abusive husband, Albert "Mister" Johnson, after discovering her true identity and opening her own business.

The film reveals that Alphonso, the man Celie believed to be her biological father, was actually her stepfather. Celie's mother married Alphonso after Celie's biological father died, and it wasn't until Alphonso's death that she learned the store had been her biological father's, who'd left it to her in his will.

Nettie, Celie's sister, didn't return home out of fear for her safety and the possibility of retaliation from Mister. She had become a missionary and traveled to Africa, but her passport was taken after an attack on her village, creating an obstacle for her reunion with Celie. Nettie also feared what Mister might do to her, and she was waiting for Celie to write back before considering a reunion.

Mister, who was physically and emotionally abusive to Celie, finally helps Celie and brings Nettie back home to reconcile for the pain he caused. He realizes the consequences of his actions and sells his land to bring Nettie back home to Celie. This change of heart comes too late, but it shows a shift in Mister's character as he tries to make amends for his past behavior.

Shug Avery, a close friend of Celie's, initially refuses to take Celie with her when she leaves town, but she returns years later to bring Celie to Tennessee. This decision allows Celie to gain her independence on her own terms and stand up for herself without relying on Shug to escape her life.

The Color Purple explores themes of racism, sexism, self-respect, and empowerment, and the title itself symbolizes Celie's transformation into a confident, powerful woman who is independent and bold. The color purple represents her inner strength, spiritual and sexual awakening, and her journey towards resilience amidst trauma.

Overall, the 2023 adaptation of The Color Purple draws comparisons to previous film and stage adaptations, but it brings a new perspective on Celie's story, emphasizing her journey towards peace and independence. The film stays true to the central story of the book while incorporating elements from the Broadway musical, providing a fresh and meaningful portrayal of Celie's transformative journey.