It Ends (2025): Cast, Ratings & Plot
It Ends is a 2025 comedy thriller directed by Alexander Ullom, starring Phinehas Yoon as James, Akira Jackson and Noah Toth. It runs 1 hour 27 minutes and was made on a reported $80,000 budget. Critics gave it 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 5.7/10.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 27m (87 min)
- Director
- Alexander Ullom
- Original language
-
English - Studio
- Snoot Entertainment
- Budget
- $80K
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is It Ends About?
The premise of It Ends without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.
During a late-night drive for food, a group of friends find themselves stranded on a seemingly endless highway. As otherworldly dangers emerge from the darkness beyond, they are confined within their Jeep Cherokee. Faced with an inescapable situation, the friends must confront their circumstances and decide whether to succumb to their fate or risk everything in a desperate attempt to escape.
It Ends Cast & Characters
Phinehas Yoon leads the cast as James, with Akira Jackson as Day and Noah Toth as Fisher. Directed by Alexander Ullom; 4 actors are credited in all.
- Director Alexander Ullom
- Phinehas Yoon as James
- Akira Jackson as Day
- Noah Toth as Fisher
- Mitchell Cole as Tyler
It Ends Reviews & Ratings
Critics gave It Ends 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 5.7/10. Our Echo Score gives it 93/100, strongest in rewatch factor (95) and weakest in sensory experience (90).
It Ends Echo Score Breakdown
It Ends delivers a consistently effective indie horror experience that resonates with contemporary audiences. Critics highlight the film's thoughtful direction, strong performances, and inventive use of genre conventions, noting its ability to balance existential themes with genuine scares. The screenplay’s economy and the atmospheric sound design further reinforce its impact, while the modest runtime maintains tight pacing. Overall, the film stands out as a compelling addition to low‑budget horror, offering lasting relevance beyond its initial viewing.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 92
In terms of direction and visual craft, the film is noted for its efficient framing and surprising cinematographic choices. Reviewers mention the director's ability to create an eerie atmosphere with a modest budget, emphasizing precise editing and a measured pace. The production design supports the thematic focus without excess. These observations indicate a high level of artistic competence.
- Character & Emotion 94
When it comes to character work, the quartet of performances receives strong praise for depth and chemistry. Critics describe the acting as nuanced and central to grounding the film’s metaphoric storytelling. The emotional resonance of the protagonists enhances the existential themes, making the characters memorable despite limited screen time. Overall, the character work is a notable strength.
- Story & Flow 93
The narrative is recognized for its original premise and tightly woven plot. Reviewers highlight the film’s existential horror framework, its smart script, and the logical progression that sustains engagement to the final moment. The story balances subtext with a satisfying conclusion, avoiding melodrama while maintaining intrigue. Consequently, the story’s coherence and originality are considered highly effective.
- Sensory Experience 90
In the sensory domain, the film’s sound design and visual style receive commendation for contributing to an unsettling mood. Critics note the effective use of a minimalist score and atmospheric soundscapes that amplify tension. The visual palette remains understated yet purposeful, reinforcing the thematic undercurrents. These elements collectively enhance immersion without overwhelming the narrative.
- Rewatch Factor 95
The rewatch factor is emphasized through the film’s layered subtext and its blend of horror with philosophical inquiry. Reviewers suggest that repeat viewings reveal additional thematic nuances and deepen appreciation for the performances. Its concise runtime and thoughtful construction make it appealing for multiple screenings. Overall, the film offers strong lasting appeal and encourages revisiting.
-
IMDb 5.7 /10
3796 votes
-
Rotten Tomatoes 93% Tomatometer
Popcornmeter 59%
See on Rotten Tomatoes -
TMDB 59% User score
See on TMDB -
Letterboxd 3.3 /5
101870 ratings
See on Letterboxd
It Ends Plot Summary
What happens in It Ends from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 14 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 4-minute read.
Spoilers ahead
Three recent graduates — James, Day, and Fisher — are picked up by their friend Tyler, a reunion they hadn’t enjoyed for a year. The trio hops into a car and set off along a quiet country road, while playful, almost improvised debates about which animals would win in a fight drift through the cabin. James guides the conversation with a mix of intellect and restraint, while Day carries a quiet tension that hints at deeper trouble, and Fisher keeps the mood light with easygoing sarcasm. As they search for a turn-off, the road feels unfamiliar and the way out seems to vanish, turning a simple drive into an unsettling puzzle.
Full summary
The whole story of It Ends, scene by scene
How Well Do You Know It Ends?
10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.
Question 1 of 10
- Question 1: not answered
- Question 2: not answered
- Question 3: not answered
- Question 4: not answered
- Question 5: not answered
- Question 6: not answered
- Question 7: not answered
- Question 8: not answered
- Question 9: not answered
- Question 10: not answered
What are the names of the four friends who reunite for the drive?
Seen It Ends?
It Ends FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast, budget, ratings and post-credit scenes of It Ends, each answered in a sentence.
How long is It Ends?
It Ends runs 1 hour 27 minutes (87 minutes).
When was It Ends released?
It Ends was released on March 7, 2025.
Who directed It Ends?
It Ends was directed by Alexander Ullom.
Who is in the cast of It Ends?
It Ends stars Phinehas Yoon as James, Akira Jackson as Day and Noah Toth as Fisher, among 4 credited actors.
What was the budget of It Ends?
It Ends had a reported budget of $80,000.
How is It Ends rated?
It Ends has 5.7/10 on IMDb, 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, 59% on TMDB and 3.3/5 on Letterboxd.
Does It Ends have a post-credit scene?
No. It Ends has no extra scene during or after the credits.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
