'Poolman' Ending Explained: June Del Ray's jaw-dropping secret puts Darren's life in danger
Warning: Contains spoilers for 'Poolman'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Poolman' hit the theatres on Friday, May 10, 2024. The movie offers a comedic twist on the L.A. Noir genre, paying homage to films like 'Chinatown'.
The film is written and directed by Chris Pine, who also takes on the lead role of Darren Barrenman in the film. The storyline delves into Barrenman's dual life as a pool cleaner and his desire to rid the town of corruption.
The film takes an interesting turn when he gets offered a chance to expose a water scandal akin to the water scandal in Chinatown. June Del Ray approaches him, accusing Stephen Toronkowski (Stephen Tobolowsky) of corruption.
Following an absurdist sequence of events, Stephen Toronkowski comes face to face with Darren in a dressing room, where Darren is dressed as a woman named Blanche. Suddenly, a gunshot rings out, striking Stephen.
Does Darren get accused of his murder? Can Darren discover the truth behind the scandal?
Darren gets framed for Stephen's murder in 'Poolman'
Darren, being the last person seen with Stephen, becomes the prime suspect in the murder, prompting a police hunt for him. Darren meditates but wakes up in hysteria
Upon waking up, he discovers footage from his friend Jack Denisoff's (Danny DeVito) documentary, which reveals that underground water is being stolen by William Van Patterson (Ray Wise).
He immediately goes to confront June, blaming her for setting him up. June refutes the claim, revealing that Stephen was her father. Darren believes her, and they share a kiss as June leaves.
Darren discovers the truth about June
Darren discovers a picture of June and Patterson together and confronts them. He realizes that June and Patterson are lovers and that it was both of them who came up with the plan to kill Stephen and frame Darren.
Darren, confused and in a hysterical fit, clings to the idea of victory, still caught up in his obsession with the film 'Chinatown'. June tries to bring him back to reality.
Dirk Pfumpter saves Darren and arrests Paterson
As Darren is about to be killed by Patterson, Wayne who introduces himself as Dirk Pfumpter (John Ortiz) enters and shoots at Patterson, injuring him enough to arrest him.
Jack seizes this opportunity to capture the climax of the film, as Darren ultimately triumphs in a comedic turn of events. Afterward, Darren returns to the pool and meditates, reflecting on the events of his life.
'Poolman' Trailer
'Poolman' was released on Friday, May 10, 2024 in theatres.