'Expats' Ending Explained: Margaret Woo, Hilary Starr, and Mercy Cho embark on new journeys
LOS ANGELS, CALIFORNIA: The last episode of the Amazon Prime Video series 'Expats,' directed by the stalwart of her art, Lulu Wang, aired on Friday, February 23.
The series, which debuted with its first two episodes on Monday, January 26, delves into the intricate lives of three women: Margaret Woo (Nicole Kidman), Hilary Starr (Sarayu Blue), and Mercy Cho (Ji-young Yoo). Each of them grapples with personal demons that may seem distinct on the surface but are eerily identical at a deeper level.
Several questions were left unresolved in the series finale, with the fate of Gus (Connor James) being the primary one left hanging.
Nevertheless, the conclusion provides a glimpse into the future of the three women, all of whom undergo considerable personal development and evolve.
Hillary Starr and David Starr part ways amicably in 'Expats' finale
It was evident throughout the series' runtime that Hillary is crumbling down under the pressure of her overbearing Punjabi family and, of course, her cheating husband, David Starr (Jack Huston).
However, Hillary gradually and methodically came to terms with her predicament, first confronting her unfaithful and violent father Daleep (Kavi Raz), and then seeing Mercy to ask for forgiveness since she was the one who made her lose her job.
Finally, she reconciles with David, and the two mutually agree to part ways amicably. Hillary was seen embracing her newfound life, where she is more secure and adores life a bit more.
Mercy Cho finally reconciles with Margaret Woo and Hilary Starr in 'Expats' finale
Mercy, who was seen throughout the series struggling with guilt, saw significant character growth. Mercy has undoubtedly come a long way, from being an unruly young woman to opting to become a single parent.
Mercy ultimately meets Margaret in the series finale, where she expresses her grief for Gus' disappearance, even offering her unborn child to her. Margaret forgives her and advises her to move forward.
She also extends an apology to Hillary Starr for her past inappropriate relationship with her ex-husband, David. Finding a sense of closure, she is relieved when Hillary, in turn, offers her forgiveness.
Furthermore, Mercy's choice to retain the baby indicates her determination to succeed in life, even though she is still haunted by guilt over her involvement in Gus' disappearance.
Margaret Woo remains in Hong Kong in the 'Expats' finale
Heartbroken by the disappearance of her youngest son Gus, Margaret Woo appears to be in a struggle to regain control of her family life.
Despite her husband, Clarke Woo (Brian Tee), repeatedly urging her to relocate to America, she refuses, burdened by guilt to abandon the search for Gus.
However, she chooses to emigrate after seeing the detrimental effects her choice is having on her other two children, Daisy Woo (Tiana Gowen) and Philip Woo (Bodhi del Rosario).
However, just as the family was about to board the plane, she hesitated and changed her mind. Her family, except Daisy, backed her decision.
Finally, Margaret was spotted navigating the city's crowded streets, determined to find her son.
