'Irish Wish' Ending Explained: Madeline Kelly experiences profound realization after her wish comes true

In Netflix's 'Irish Wish', Madeline Kelly's perspective toward her own life witnesses a major shift after her wish magically comes true
UPDATED MAR 15, 2024
Lindsay Lohan and Alexander Vlahos in a still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)
Lindsay Lohan and Alexander Vlahos in a still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)

Contains spoilers for 'Irish Wish' on Netflix

COUNTRY MAYO, WEST IRELAND: The fantasy romantic comedy film 'Irish Wish', starring Lindsay Lohan, premiered on Netflix on Friday, March 15.

The story centers on Madeline "Maddie" Kelly, a book editor who hides her feelings for writer Paul Kennedy (Alexander Vlahos) and attends his wedding with her best friend Emma Taylor (Elizabeth Tan).

However, everything changes when she makes a wish to marry Paul, which unexpectedly comes true. Through this magical experience, she comes to understand that her destiny lies elsewhere and that she wasn't meant to be with Paul after all.

Madeline Kelly cancels her wedding with Paul Kennedy in 'Irish Wish'

A still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)
A still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)

Despite her wish finally coming true, Madeline Kelly (Lindsay Lohan) finds herself still discontented. As she gets ready for the wedding, she confesses to Father Callahan (Aidan Jordan) that she made a wish to Saint Brigid.

He advises her that Saint Brigid (Dawn Bradfield) may not grant what she wants but rather what she needs. 

Just before walking down the aisle, she confronts Emma and acknowledges her feelings for Paul. Emma then admits she has felt a connection with Paul since their initial meeting.

Realizing that she doesn't truly love Paul, Madeline promises Emma to make things right. When the time comes for the wedding, Madeline shocks everyone by appearing in casual attire instead of her wedding gown.

She addresses the crowd, admitting that she and Paul are not in love and should not proceed with the marriage. Paul blames James Thomas (Ed Speleers) for "stealing" his bride, leading to a physical altercation between the two men.

Madeline Kelly wants to undo her wish in 'Irish Wish'

Lindsay Lohan as Madeline Kelly in a still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)
Lindsay Lohan as Madeline Kelly in a still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)

After the turmoil, James packs his bags and departs from the Kennedy residence, convinced that he bears responsibility for the chaos.

Emma comforts him, reassuring him that he isn't to blame. She shares her happiness about being with him and kisses him.

Despite Emma's affection, Madeline decides to depart. Overwhelmed with emotions, she returns to the wishing chair and calls Saint Brigid.

She pleads with Saint Brigid to undo her wish, but the saint informs her that the wish has already been fulfilled and then vanishes. Undeterred, Madeline persists in wishing to reclaim her former life.

Madeline Kelly embarks on a journey to write her destiny

A still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)
A still from 'Irish Wish' (@Netflix)

Madeline's wish is undone and she wakes up as a bridesmaid. She joyfully participates in Paul and Emma's wedding ceremony.

After the festivities, Paul asks her to write the sequel to his book while he goes on his honeymoon.

Madeline asserts that she'll agree to Paul's proposal only if she receives co-writer credits, but Paul dismisses her request. Unwilling to compromise, she rejects his offer

She then meets James, whom she thinks is her actual soulmate. He reveals that he turned down his next project and intends to stay in Ireland to pursue love. Madeline also decides to stay in the country and explore it alongside him.

'Irish Wish' is available to stream on Netflix.

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