Oddity (2024)

Oddity (2024) Ending Explained: Is It Based on a True Story or a Book?

Damian McCarthy’s 2024 horror thriller Oddity has left horror fans reeling, offering a chilling narrative with a twisted ending that has sparked many questions. The Irish psychological horror film is a haunting exploration of grief, betrayal, and supernatural forces, blending suspense with moments of dark humor. After its release, many viewers were left scratching their heads, eager to understand the true meaning of its conclusion. To clear up the confusion, we’ve delved deep into the movie’s ending and examined the key revelations.

Plot Summary of Oddity (2024)

Oddity opens with Dani (Carolyn Bracken), a medium who is grieving the mysterious death of her twin sister, Dani. Working alone in a remote Irish home, she receives a visit from one of Ted’s (Gwilym Lee) former patients, Olin (Tadhg Murphy), who warns her that something sinister lurks in the house. Before Dani can fully comprehend the danger, she’s brutally murdered, and Olin is blamed for the crime.

A year later, Ted is living in the house with his new girlfriend, Yana (Caroline Menton), but Dani’s twin sister, Darcy, arrives at the home to investigate the truth behind her sister’s death. Darcy, also a medium with the ability to see the past through physical objects, begins uncovering dark secrets. Using her powers, she learns that Ted may have played a role in Dani’s death, sparking a terrifying series of events as Darcy uncovers the truth about Ted’s involvement and the supernatural forces surrounding them.

What Happened to Dani and Ted at the End of Oddity?

The movie’s shocking twist reveals that it was, in fact, Ted who orchestrated his wife Dani’s murder. Ted, portrayed by Gwilym Lee, conspired with Ivan (Steve Wall), an orderly from the psychiatric hospital where he works, to kill Dani. However, things take a darker turn when Darcy, the clairvoyant sister, uncovers the truth using her powers. Darcy, in a desperate attempt to stop Ted, kills Ivan, mistakenly believing him to be the murderer.

As Darcy digs deeper into the mystery, she uncovers another horrifying truth about Ted’s involvement. Ted, realizing that Darcy is onto him, tries to cover up his tracks by sending Ivan to kill her. But instead of succumbing to Ted’s plot, Darcy animates a wooden mannequin with her psychometric abilities, terrorizing Ivan into submission. Ted continues his efforts to silence anyone who may expose his dark secrets.

Just when it appears that Ted has escaped justice, another chilling twist awaits. One evening, Ted receives a peculiar package from Darcy’s oddities shop containing a haunted concierge bell. Darcy had previously warned him of its sinister origins, but in his arrogance, Ted rings the bell. Unbeknownst to him, this act summons a malevolent spirit — a bellhop from beyond the grave — setting the stage for his grim fate. In a final scene that cuts abruptly, the spirit appears to exact its vengeance, leaving Ted’s demise implied but undeniable.

Director Damian McCarthy spoke about the twist, stating, “It’s his own arrogance that led to his demise…He’s gotten away with everything; he just can’t help himself. So, I like to think he’s definitely dead. If the film were another 40 seconds long, maybe we’d see the bellboy tear him apart.”

Is Oddity Based on a True Story or Book?

No, Oddity is not based on a true story or any specific book. While the film’s plot is entirely original, the director, Damian McCarthy, drew inspiration from horror tropes and cultural folklore. The concept of the animated wooden mannequin is influenced by Jewish folklore, specifically the golem — a mythical creature made from inanimate material that can be brought to life. This folkloric element adds a layer of mystery and supernatural dread to the film.

Oddity Review: A Supernatural Horror That Will Tear You to Piece

Oddity stands out as a true horror gem in 2024, thanks to McCarthy’s deft direction and the powerful performances, especially by Carolyn Bracken. Her portrayal of Darcy is both haunting and emotionally gripping, adding depth to a story that becomes increasingly sinister as it progresses.

The film expertly builds tension, using slow pacing and restraint to evoke a sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. McCarthy knows how to unsettle his audience, balancing moments of horror with dark humor, all while keeping us on edge with unpredictable supernatural occurrences. The eerie wooden mannequin is an iconic element that heightens the film’s sense of foreboding, making every scene involving it utterly chilling.

Bracken’s performance gives the film emotional weight, as she conveys the grief and determination of a sister desperate for justice. The movie’s themes of unresolved agony and lingering terror are felt in every corner of the film, culminating in a heartbreaking and terrifying conclusion.

Cast

• Gwilym Lee as Ted Timmis, a psychiatrist and Dani’s husband.
• Carolyn Bracken as Dani Odello-Timmis / Darcy Odello.
• Tadhg Murphy as Olin Boole.
• Caroline Menton as Yana, Ted’s girlfriend.
• Steve Wall as Ivan.
• Jonathan French as Declan Barrett.

Oddity (2024) is a supernatural horror experience that leaves a lasting impression. Its final twist, eerie atmosphere, and exploration of the supernatural elements make it a standout thriller that horror fans won’t soon forget.