The directors of Final Destination Bloodlines have finally opened up about the film’s ending, sharing insights on an alternate conclusion that was almost chosen for the sixth installment of the Final Destination franchise. Final Destination Bloodlines has quickly gained popularity among fans, and while it concludes similarly to its predecessors, the original ending was quite different.
In a recent interview with Screen Rant’s Ash Crossan, directors Adam Stein and Zach Lipovsky discussed whether they ever contemplated keeping the main characters, Stefani and Charlie, alive. These characters met an unfortunate fate at the film’s climax, but as both directors noted, this was not the initial plan.
Stein revealed, “The script went through so many different versions,” exploring a myriad of possibilities. One of the script drafts featured Stefani reaching Iris’ old cabin and choosing to stay there to protect Charlie. Yet, the creative team ultimately decided that such an ending felt too somber and didn’t align with the Final Destination franchise’s spirit. Stein elaborated:
Yeah. I mean, the script went through so many different versions, and we explored every different possibility. I think one of the early drafts of the script ended with Stephanie making it inside the cabin and basically ended with herâ€â€that she’s going to live the rest of her life in the cabin to protect Charlie. And it sort of had this depressing feeling in the end. It was like, ‘Oh, okay, I get it. She’s the new Iris. She’s going to live her whole life in the cabin to protect her little brother.’ And it kind of emotionally made sense, but not in terms of the movie-going experience. It kind of ended on a sad, melancholy note, which just didn’t feel right for Final Destination. You kind of want people to leave with a spring in their step and a smile on their face.
What This Alternate Ending Means For Final Destination Bloodlines
It’s intriguing to realize that the ending of Final Destination Bloodlines evolved over different iterations. Stefani moving into Iris’ cabin seemed to align perfectly with the story’s narrative arc. The movie’s eventual ending feels somewhat abrupt, leaving some fans unsatisfied.
However, unexpected conclusions have been a hallmark of the Final Destination series since its inception. Several films in the franchise have wrapped up with characters unexpectedly meeting their demise just as they believe they’ve escaped Death’s embrace. Stein’s assertion that a thematic ending might not cater to audience expectations carries weight.
Our Take On Final Destination Bloodlines’ Cut Ending
While the final ending of Final Destination Bloodlines seems appropriate for the franchise, many argue that the alternate ending Stein described could have served as a more impactful conclusion. This version would have deepened the familial connections, further intertwining Stefani’s fate with that of Iris, making it feel more consistent with the overarching narrative.
Considering Iris’s meticulous preparations, Stefani’s rapid lapse in vigilance leading to her tragic end feels disjointed. An alternate ending that allowed Stefani to embody Iris’s protective instincts might have resonated more with viewers, making it disappointing that this version will remain unseen. It’s a testament to the complexity of storytelling and the balancing act that creatives endure in delivering both thematic weight and audience satisfaction.
Fans remain captivated by the Final Destination series, and with engaging discussions surrounding Final Destination Bloodlines, the anticipation for the film’s wider release on May 16, 2025, only continues to build excitement.