Blast music, attract monsters: Decoding 'A Quiet Place' ending song
A Quiet Place: Day One, the prequel to John Krasinski's two-part series, has piqued the interest of viewers with its concluding song. The film, set in New York City, revolves around Samira aka Sam (Lupita N'Yongo), a terminally ill cancer patient residing in hospice with her cat, Frodo. Unlike its predecessors, this installment introduces an alien species that hunts based on sound, adding a new layer of terror to the franchise.
The role of the final song in the film's climax
The film reaches its climax with Sam playing Nina Simone's Feeling Good on her iPod, a decision that ultimately leads to her death. As the narrative progresses, Sam, Frodo, and their companion Eric (Joseph Quinn) discover boats rescuing survivors from the alien-infested city. However, they find themselves surrounded by these creatures. Before this revelation, Eric assists Sam in fulfilling her bucket list which includes visiting a jazz club from her childhood and enjoying pizza from a renowned New York eatery.
Sam's sacrificial act and the importance of music
When their escape route is blocked, Sam makes a sacrificial move by smashing car windows to set off alarms and distract the creatures. This allows Eric and Frodo to escape safely, a plan conceived by Sam herself. Later, she strolls through the deserted streets of Manhattan playing Feeling Good. Eventually, she removes her earphones, allowing the music to blare out loud and draw the creatures toward her. The song signifies Sam's acceptance of her fate in this post-apocalyptic world.
Sam's final moments and the power of choice
Before the alien invasion, Sam was already terminally ill. With Eric's assistance, she manages to create some beautiful and lasting memories. Most importantly, she decides to summon the creatures herself. While listening to Simone's empowering song, Sam chooses how her story concludes. Despite its tragic elements, A Quiet Place: Day One grants its protagonist a final bit of control during an otherwise bleak moment.
The significance of music in Sam's life and story
Music holds a significant place in Sam's life. She shares with Eric that one of her cherished childhood memories is associated with a jazz club. The lyrics of Simone's song — "it's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life" — resonate with the post-apocalyptic world of the Quiet Place films. This song, played during her final moments, signifies Sam's acceptance of her fate and adds depth to her character within the narrative.
