'Fancy Dance' Ending Explained: Is Tawi alive?

'Fancy Dance' shows a heartbreaking fate of Tawi and the struggles of Indigenous women
UPDATED JUN 28, 2024
'Fancy Dance' highlights Tawi's struggle to survive in a system that fails to protect her (@appletv+)
'Fancy Dance' highlights Tawi's struggle to survive in a system that fails to protect her (@appletv+)

Contains spoilers for 'Fancy Dance'

TULSA, OKLAHOMA: In the hauntingly beautiful landscape of 'Fancy Dance,' director Erica Tremblay and lead actress Lily Gladstone invite viewers into a world where every scene resonates with the echoes of Indigenous heritage and the stark realities of modern reservation life.

As the film nears its powerful conclusion, it carefully weaves together Jax's struggles, portrayed with raw intensity by Gladstone, and her relentless pursuit of justice following her sister's disappearance.

The poignant exploration of Indigenous identity and the legacy of colonialism culminates in the Oklahoma state powwow, a vibrant celebration that symbolizes cultural resilience and community solidarity.

This finale not only highlights the film's thematic depth but also underscores its dedication to raising awareness about the critical issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).

Why is Frank fighting Jax for the custody Of Roki?

Shea Whigham in a still from 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)
Shea Whigham in a still from 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)

Frank (Shea Whigham) wants custody of Roki after her mother Tawi's (Hauli Sioux Gray) death, feeling a personal void as he has distanced himself from the reservation to embrace a more conventional life with his wife Nancy (Audrey Wasilewski).

They've faced challenges in having children together, which intensifies their desire to raise Roki as their own.

However, they believe that Roki would have greater opportunities outside her Indigenous community. This clashes with Roki's strong connection to her cultural roots, which they fail to fully understand or appreciate.

The movie explores how societal biases often pressure people to assimilate rather than embrace and celebrate their cultural differences.

It shows how these issues affect families and sheds light on the historical challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

How do things unfold for Jax And Roki at the end of 'Fancy Dance'?

Isabel Deroy-Olson and Lily Gladstone play the lead roles in 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)
Isabel Deroy-Olson and Lily Gladstone play the lead roles in 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)

Jax and Roki's journey ends with a heartfelt reunion and their escape from the police. Despite their hardships, Roki's defiance and eventual reunion with Jax at the powwow demonstrate their strength and pride in their culture.

The film's ending blends hope with harsh realities: Roki goes back to Frank and Nancy, while Jax faces legal consequences.

Their bond, shaped by challenges and their heritage, reflects how Indigenous communities stay strong during difficult times.

Is Tawi dead or alive?

Hauli Sioux Gray's picture in a still from 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)
A still from 'Fancy Dance' (@appletv+)

Meanwhile, Tawi's story ends sadly as clues reveal she was involved with a man in a red truck, who ultimately killed her. Her story highlights how Indigenous women are often vulnerable and ignored by society.

The film highlights Tawi's struggle to survive in a system that doesn't protect her, shining a light on the persistent challenges faced by Indigenous women.

Her death serves as a powerful statement about the neglect and violence Indigenous people endure, highlighting broader societal issues.

'Fancy Dance' is available for streaming on Apple TV+.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

At the time of writing, there is no official word on a potential sequel
1 day ago
The lack of moolah, coupled with critics calling it a damp squib are believed to be major factors
1 day ago
Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone reunite for ‘Bugonia,’ a paranoia-soaked thriller now streaming, where conspiracies and truth blur in unsettling ways.
1 day ago
A new ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ trailer shifts focus to Thor’s most personal battle yet, teasing a vulnerable side of Chris Hemsworth’s characters.
1 day ago
'Madden' chronicles the rise of John Madden through his early days as a Super Bowl-winning coach for the Oakland Raiders
2 days ago
Released in 2020, 'Greenland' centers on the Garrity family's fight for survival after a devastating comet strike
2 days ago
Released on Wednesday, December 25, the new 'Anaconda' movie is based on the 1997 film of the same name
2 days ago
The holidays are here—don’t miss the longest-running Christmas special ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’
3 days ago
The Netflix action-thriller movie stars Charlize Theron as a woman who travels to the Australian wilderness as she grapples with grief
3 days ago
Released in 1990, the hit movie was followed by a sequel, 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,' which hit theaters in 1992
3 days ago