Baby Ruby ending explained: Who is that mysterious figure?

As a mother who has experienced postpartum depression myself, I was captivated by the raw and authentic portrayal of this often overlooked struggle in Baby Ruby. Kit Harington delivers an intense performance that brings the anxiety and paranoia to life, while Noémie Merlant’s portrayal of Jo is heart-wrenchingly real.

Warning: Contains spoilers for Baby Ruby.

5 years after the last season of Game of Thrones, Kit Harington returns to keep you awake at night with an even greater terror in a new Netflix psychological horror titled “Baby Ruby”.

While it wasn’t newly released, the directorial debut of Tony-nominated playwright Bess Wohl is now reaching a broader audience as the film has been made available on Netflix.

In this role, Noémie Merlant becomes the main focus as she portrays Jo, a devoted spouse to Spencer (played by Kit Harington). However, after the birth of their daughter Ruby, Jo encounters difficulties and struggles to cope.

As I ponder over the peculiar occurrences that have been taking place lately, I can’t help but wonder if my actions might have somehow upset Ruby. It seems like everything has taken a turn for the worse ever since then, leaving me in a whirlwind of confusion and concern.

The result is an intriguing horror which feels painfully real for anyone who’s felt overwhelmed by new parenthood and the pressures of motherhood, especially in a society where postpartum depression is often dismissed as nothing more than just the “Baby Blues”.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but ponder over the poignant conclusion of the captivating film “Baby Ruby”. You might be wondering if the finale is as bleak as it seems or if our protagonist, Jo, finally finds some semblance of peace. Let me shed light on the ending for you… Read on to unravel the enigmatic Baby Ruby conclusion.

Baby Ruby ending explained: Who is that mysterious figure at the end?

It takes some time for Spencer and his mom, Doris, to notice that something’s off about Jo, as the warning signs initially appear subtly over time.

One evening, Spencer proposes they both head out for a meal together while leaving Ruby in Doris’ care at home. However, the plan goes awry as Jo checks the baby monitor and discovers it has been accidentally knocked over.

In a state of alarm, the couple hastily return home, finding all seems well. Yet, one might wonder, as when Jo attempts to nurse her baby later in the evening, Ruby unexpectedly bites Jo’s nipple, causing Jo to ponder if the child harbors some resentment towards her for leaving…

Gradually, an idle notion transforms into an obsessive concern for Jo, who now believes that Ruby is dissatisfied with her parenting. Overwhelming worry and illusions grip her, causing outrage when Spencer proposes that she should take a break to enjoy some solo quality time with their child.

With her self-doubt intensifying, her suspicions also become stronger. Later, a parenting book seems to confirm Ruby’s theory that she’s trying to communicate with Jo. However, when she confides in Spencer at work about this, it only increases his worry that something is amiss.

In an attempt to alleviate some stress, I invite my dear mom, Doris, to stay with us temporarily. She’ll lend a hand in taking care of Ruby, easing the burden that falls on Jo.

As if inviting your mother-in-law is ever going to calm things down…

Despite their initial reserve, these two women eventually share their feelings with one another. In doing so, Doris discloses a personal struggle she faced – experiencing postpartum depression following the birth of her child. During this period, she admitted to having unsettling thoughts about harming her own son.

Doris chose not to take action in that situation. If she had, Spencer wouldn’t exist today, right? However, even though Jo finds this secret troubling, disclosing it only amplifies her unease rather than alleviating it as planned.

Baby Ruby ending explained: Who is that mysterious figure?

At this stage, Jo becomes increasingly suspicious that everyone around, such as Doris, the other mothers, and even Ruby’s husband Spencer – despite his constant support – may be plotting to cause harm to Ruby. When he sensibly proposes seeking professional help for her delusions, Jo abruptly takes Ruby and hurriedly drives away in their car.

A collision occurs, resulting in extensive damage to the car and serious injuries to Jo. Remarkably, Jo uses her body to protect Ruby during the crash, sparing her any harm. Medical professionals attend to Jo’s physical wounds, but also provide emotional and mental support until they deem it suitable for her to be discharged and go home.

Despite appearing improved now, Jo continues to harbor fear about being near her daughter due to the possibility that her delusions might resurface and potentially harm their child. Spencer attempts to comfort Jo by reminding her of the efforts she made to save Ruby during critical moments. Maybe she’ll feel more at ease after a night back home…

However, during the dead of night, Ruby’s cries jolt Jo from sleep. Hungry as she was, Jo falters and finds it difficult to nourish her. It is at this moment that events take an unsettling turn.

All of a sudden, Jo encounters an enigmatic figure grabbing Ruby and darting into the woods nearby. However, when Jo manages to reach them, she discovers that the culprit is none other than herself, or at least a different version of her. Therefore, could it be that a supernatural double of hers had been present all along in this place?

Instead of saying, “it’s Jo’s internalized fears and paranoia brought to life inside her psyche,” you can rephrase it as, “Jo is experiencing manifestations of her deep-seated anxieties and suspicions within herself.”

As the credits unfold, it implies that the healing process has concluded, if not, then certainly progressing towards shared family happiness.

While Baby Ruby isn’t a traditional horror movie, it explores the terrifying reality of postpartum psychosis that Jo’s character must confront, rather than supernatural issues.

It’s quite typical for new mothers to feel a detachment from their newborn infants due to hormonal shifts during pregnancy and delivery. However, this issue is often overlooked or not discussed enough. Unfortunately, it’s frequently dismissed as unimportant, even though it can lead to genuine distress.

Absolutely, “Baby Ruby” is indeed a chilling horror film, drawing from genuine terrors, which amplifies its fear factor yet also makes it deeply affecting. It tackles crucial concerns that deserve far greater attention in our broader culture, conversations we need to have more often.

Little Ruby can now be watched on Netflix! Subscribe starting at just £4.99 per month. You can also enjoy Netflix on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream.

2024-08-16 12:35

Baby Ruby ending explained: Who is that mysterious figure at the end?

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