What's with the ending of "The Departed"?

Question

Is there a reason behind everyone getting shot because it seemed a little random

Answer 1

The ending echoed that of the original movie, Infernal Affairs (which is from Hong Kong, by the way, not Korea; read EW's review at the link below). I didn't have any problem with it -- until the very last shot, with the scurrying rat. Yes, the whole movie is about rats, I get it, you didn't need to hit me over the head with such an obvious symbol, Mr. Scorsese.

Answer 2

It seemed very Scorsese to me. I would have been surprised if it had had a different ending.

Answer 3

Yea it kind bugged me too, I mean the entire cast is dead by the end of the movie. Whats up with that? Sorry to anyone who hasn't seen it yet I guess I sort of blew it for you. It's a good movie though.  

Answer 4

This is based off a true story, so I guess they had to follow it.  

Answer 5

It's just how the movie was supposed to end--it's actually a remake of a Korean action/thriller.  I think it's supposed to be more realistic because in real life the good guy doesn't always win.  This is sad, so most movies aim for a feel good ending because they're paranoid about how their ratings will be affected.

I, personally, loved the ending because I did -not- see that coming.  I mean, that elevator scene?  Good God...  Credits were rolling, and I was still just staring at the screen telling my boyfriend "that did -not- just happen."

Answer 6

Wasn't that the point of the movie......they were "departed" from life by getting killed. It's story behind random killings. All people are connected...nothing is random. Chaos theory....that whole thing.

Answer 7

They were all trying to get revenge / cover their tracks.

Answer 8

i guess it did