1. Memento (2000)
2. The Usual Suspects (1995)
3. Fight Club (1999)
4. Donnie Darko (2001)
5. American Beauty (1999)
6. The Sixth Sense (1999)
7. The Prestige (2006)
8. Atonement (2007)
9. The Butterfly Effect (2004)
10. Se7en (1995)
11. Shutter Island (2010)
12. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
13. The Machinist (2004)
14. The Others (2001)
15. Vanilla Sky (2001)
16. Primal Fear (1996)
17. Inside Man (2006)
18. Unfaithful (2002)
19. The Game (1997)
20. The Village (2004)
21. The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)
22. The Mist (2007)
23. Sphere (1998)
24. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
25. Arlington Road (1999)
26. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
27. Exam (2009)
28. Oldboy (2003)
29. The Others (2001)
30. The Departed (2006)
More About Movies That Start With The Ending
Title: Unraveling the Suspense: Movies that Begin with the Ending
Introduction:
In the realm of filmmaking, directors are constantly seeking innovative ways to captivate their audiences. From stylistic choices to intricate storytelling techniques, cinema has evolved over the years to create unforgettable experiences for moviegoers. One unconventional approach that has gained significant attention in recent times is the concept of beginning a film with its ending.
Imagine walking into a theater, settling into your seat, and within moments, being thrust into the climactic closing moments of a film. This unique narrative structure challenges traditional storytelling, compelling viewers to immerse themselves in a thrilling journey of discovering how it all came to be. From mysteries to thrillers, and even romance, this approach has become an exciting trend, captivating audiences and leaving them eagerly yearning to unravel the suspense.
By utilizing the reverse storytelling technique, filmmakers indulge in a creative gambit that heightens the viewer’s anticipation, compelling them to stay engrossed throughout the entire movie. The element of surprise, coupled with the intrigue of piecing together the narrative puzzle, creates a heightened sense of engagement rarely found in traditional storytelling.
One notable film that embraced this technique masterfully is “Memento” (2000), directed by Christopher Nolan. The movie opens with its ending, immersing the audience in the mind of Leonard Shelby, a man suffering from anterograde amnesia. Forced to solve the mystery of his wife’s murder, the audience experiences the story in reverse, mirroring Leonard’s fragmented memory. This approach allows viewers to share the protagonist’s confusion and to empathize with his desperate search for answers. The tantalizing enigma presented by “Memento” has forever etched itself in the annals of filmmaking, leaving viewers awestruck as they scramble to connect the dots alongside the protagonist.
However, these cinematic gems are not limited to tales of suspense and mystery. Romance is an equally enticing genre to explore using this unique storytelling technique. “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004), directed by Michel Gondry, beautifully employs it to craft an emotionally resonant love story. Guided by non-linear narratives, the film presents a fractured relationship that slowly unfolds in reverse. Through this approach, audiences are afforded a fresh perspective on love and heartbreak, forcing them to reconsider the significance of the moments that shape relationships and the powerful memories that remain etched in our minds.
The appeal of movies that start with the ending lies in their ability to challenge preconceived notions of linear storytelling. By turning the narrative structure on its head, they defy common expectations and create an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Filmmakers tap into our innate desire to play detective, urging us to actively participate in the unraveling of the story, engaging us on both intellectual and emotional levels.
In the following articles, we will delve into a diverse range of films that have embraced this intriguing narrative technique across various genres, exploring how each movie manages to captivate and surprise its audience. Be prepared to embark on a cinematic adventure like no other, where endings become beginnings, and mystery intertwines with revelation. Welcome to the realm of movies that start with their endings, where the journey of discovery begins in the most unexpected places.
Movies That Start With The Ending FAQs:
1. Q: What are some movies that start with the ending?
A: Some movies that begin with the ending include “Memento” (2000), “Fight Club” (1999), and “American Psycho” (2000).
2. Q: Why do some movies use this storytelling technique?
A: Starting with the ending can create intrigue and captivate the audience’s attention from the beginning, making them want to know how the story unfolded to reach that point.
3. Q: Are there any advantages to starting a movie with the ending?
A: Yes, it can create a sense of mystery and engage the audience, as they are eager to discover how the events unfolded to reach the conclusion shown at the start.
4. Q: Is it common to find movies that employ this technique?
A: While not as common as traditional storytelling methods, movies starting with the ending have been used throughout cinema history to provide a unique narrative approach.
5. Q: Does starting with the ending spoil the movie for the audience?
A: Starting with the ending can provide a sense of anticipation, allowing the audience to experience the story in reverse chronological order and immerse themselves more fully in the narrative.
6. Q: Do movies that start with the ending often have twists or surprises?
A: Yes, these films often contain unexpected twists and surprises, as the beginning and ending don’t always match up in a straightforward sequence.
7. Q: What are some other well-known films that use this technique?
A: Other movies that start with the ending include “The Usual Suspects” (1995), “The Prestige” (2006), and “No Country for Old Men” (2007).
8. Q: Does this narrative technique work for all genres of movies?
A: While it can be found in various genres, movies starting with the ending are more commonly seen in thrillers, crime dramas, and psychological films.
9. Q: Are there any drawbacks to starting with the ending?
A: Some viewers might find the narrative structure confusing or challenging to follow, as the story unravels in reverse order, requiring them to piece together the events.
10. Q: Is there a specific term for movies that begin with the ending?
A: This technique is often referred to as “in medias res,” which means starting a story from the midpoint or even the end, and then filling in the backstory.
