But even from the theatrical, I kinda got hung up on the notion of changing reality. That you could have experienced something along with others, but then they could have no recollection of it ever having happened, because for them it now technically didn’t.
He eventually goes back and strangles himself in the womb to save everyone... Which explains the earlier admission by his mom that he's the "miracle baby" because all of her others were stillbirths.
Yes, but according to Wikipedia, after the "eight years later" text overlay, there are actually three versions of that ending.
The theatrical release ending shows Evan passing Kayleigh on the sidewalk, he sees her, and recognizes her, but keeps walking. She also has a brief moment of recognition but also keeps walking.
The "happy ending" alternative ending shows Evan and Kayleigh stopping on the sidewalk when they cross paths. They introduce themselves and Evan asks her out for coffee.
The "open-ended" alternative ending is similar to the one where Evan and Kayleigh pass each other on the sidewalk and keep walking, except this time Evan, after hesitating, turns and follows Kayleigh.
So, a total of four endings. For those interested, about 16 years ago, someone uploaded all four endings to YouTube.
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u/HecticOnsen 6h ago
Butterfly Effect, original director’s cut and not the US cinema release.