What is the ending of Perfect Blue?
The ending of Perfect Blue, a 1997 psychological thriller directed by Satoshi Kon, is one of the most enigmatic and debated conclusions in the history of anime. The film, which explores themes of identity, reality, and the blurred lines between the two, leaves viewers questioning the true nature of the protagonist’s experiences. This article aims to delve into the various interpretations of the ending and shed light on the possible explanations behind it.
Deciphering the Ending
The ending of Perfect Blue is divided into two parts: the “real” ending and the “fake” ending. The “real” ending occurs after the protagonist, Mima, has been hospitalized after a series of traumatic events. In this version, Mima is revealed to be a victim of her own success, having become too consumed by her role as a pop star to distinguish between her real life and her fictional persona. The “fake” ending, on the other hand, presents a different perspective, suggesting that Mima is actually a serial killer who has been manipulating the events to appear as if she is the victim.
Interpretations of the Ending
One interpretation of the ending is that Mima is indeed a victim of her own success. This interpretation suggests that Mima’s mental state deteriorated as she struggled to maintain her identity as a pop star while dealing with the pressures of fame. The “real” ending implies that Mima’s mental breakdown was a result of her inability to separate her real life from her fictional persona, leading her to the brink of madness.
Another interpretation posits that Mima is a serial killer who has been manipulating the events to appear as if she is the victim. This interpretation is supported by the fact that Mima has been taking on the roles of the victims she has been portraying in her music videos. The “fake” ending suggests that Mima is responsible for the deaths of the women she has been impersonating, and that her mental state is a facade to cover up her true nature.
Symbolism and Themes
The ending of Perfect Blue is rich in symbolism and themes that contribute to its complexity. The film’s exploration of identity and reality is reflected in the blurred lines between Mima’s real life and her fictional persona. The use of mirrors, which are prevalent throughout the film, symbolize the duality of Mima’s identity and the difficulty of discerning between reality and illusion.
Additionally, the film’s themes of fame, obsession, and the dark side of the entertainment industry are all present in the ending. Mima’s descent into madness is a commentary on the price of fame and the consequences of living a life that is constantly in the public eye.
Conclusion
The ending of Perfect Blue remains one of the most controversial and debated conclusions in the world of anime. With its enigmatic nature and rich symbolism, the film leaves viewers questioning the true nature of Mima’s experiences. Whether Mima is a victim of her own success or a serial killer manipulating events, the ending of Perfect Blue serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of identity and the blurred lines between reality and illusion.
