Ragtime (1981)

Sorry, we aren't able to watch and write up a full detailed plot yet. Check back in a few days.

In the ending of the movie "Ragtime," the lives of the main characters converge in a tragic and poignant manner. Coalhouse Walker Jr. confronts the injustices he has faced, leading to a violent climax. The film concludes with a sense of unresolved tension, reflecting the societal issues of the time.

As the film approaches its conclusion, we see Coalhouse Walker Jr. becoming increasingly desperate after the brutal treatment of his beloved Sarah and the destruction of his Model T Ford by a group of racist firemen. His quest for justice leads him to take drastic measures. He takes hostages in a standoff at the J.P. Morgan mansion, demanding justice and recognition for the wrongs done to him and his community.

Meanwhile, the character of Mother, who has been a witness to the unfolding events, grapples with her own understanding of race and justice. She has been supportive of Coalhouse and has developed a bond with him, but she is also torn by the violence that is erupting around her.

As the standoff escalates, Coalhouse's demands are met with resistance from the authorities. The police and the National Guard surround the mansion, leading to a tense confrontation. In a moment of desperation, Coalhouse is ultimately shot and killed by the police, despite his pleas for understanding and justice. His death symbolizes the tragic consequences of systemic racism and the struggle for dignity.

The film closes with a montage that reflects the broader societal changes occurring in America during this period. We see glimpses of the characters' fates: Mother and her family are left to ponder the events that have transpired, while the world around them continues to change, hinting at the ongoing struggles for equality and justice.

In the final scenes, we witness the aftermath of Coalhouse's death. The camera pans over the city, capturing the stark contrast between the lives of the privileged and the oppressed. The film ends on a note of ambiguity, leaving the audience to reflect on the unresolved issues of race, class, and justice that permeate the narrative.

In summary, the ending of "Ragtime" encapsulates the tragic fate of Coalhouse Walker Jr., the emotional turmoil of Mother, and the broader societal implications of their struggles, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer.

The movie "Ragtime," produced in 1981, does not have a post-credit scene. The film concludes with a powerful and poignant ending that encapsulates the themes of social change and the intersection of different lives in early 20th-century America. After the final scenes, the credits roll without any additional content or scenes following them. The focus remains on the narrative and the historical context presented throughout the film, leaving the audience to reflect on the events and characters they have witnessed.

Coalhouse Walker Jr. is a central character whose journey reflects the struggles of African Americans in early 20th century America. He is a talented pianist who faces racial injustice when a group of white firemen vandalizes his car. His emotional turmoil transforms him from a peaceful man into a figure of vengeance, ultimately leading to a tragic confrontation with the law. His character embodies the themes of dignity, rage, and the quest for justice.

Mother, a character representing the upper-middle-class white society, begins as a conventional figure who is primarily concerned with her family and societal expectations. As the story progresses, she becomes increasingly aware of the social injustices around her, particularly through her interactions with Coalhouse Walker Jr. and Sarah. Her emotional journey reflects a growing empathy and a challenge to her previously held beliefs, culminating in her decision to support those fighting against oppression.

Tateh, an immigrant from Eastern Europe, represents the struggles of the working class and the immigrant experience in America. His initial focus is on achieving the American Dream through his success in the business of making and selling ice cream. However, his character arc reveals a deepening disillusionment with the capitalist system as he faces personal and financial challenges. His relationship with his family, particularly with his daughter, reflects the tensions between ambition and familial loyalty.

Emma Goldman, a real historical figure, serves as a voice of radical thought and social change in the film. Her passionate speeches and activism inspire characters like Coalhouse Walker Jr. and others to confront the injustices they face. Goldman represents the growing labor movement and the fight for women's rights, and her interactions with other characters highlight the intersection of various social issues during the era.

Coalhouse Walker Jr. and Sarah share a deep, romantic relationship that is central to the emotional core of the story. Their love is tested by the societal challenges they face, particularly after Sarah becomes a victim of racial violence. This tragedy propels Coalhouse into a quest for justice, leading to his radicalization. Their relationship illustrates the personal impact of systemic racism and serves as a catalyst for the film's exploration of themes of love, loss, and revenge.

"Ragtime," produced in 1981, is a historical drama that explores complex themes and social issues in early 20th-century America. While it offers a rich narrative and visual storytelling, it contains several elements that may be objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Violence and Racism: The film depicts instances of racial violence and discrimination, including scenes that illustrate the harsh realities faced by African Americans during this period. These moments can be intense and distressing.

2. Death and Tragedy: There are scenes that involve death and the impact of loss on characters, which may be emotionally heavy for younger audiences.

3. Sexual Content: The film includes references to sexual relationships and situations that may not be suitable for children, including implied infidelity and adult themes.

4. Social Injustice: The narrative addresses issues of class struggle, poverty, and the exploitation of marginalized groups, which may be difficult for younger viewers to fully comprehend.

5. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience significant emotional distress, including feelings of despair, anger, and hopelessness, which could be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

Overall, while "Ragtime" is a powerful film with important historical context, its mature themes and content may not be appropriate for all audiences, particularly children.