The film They Live concludes with a dramatic and impactful revelation, as the protagonist, Nada, sacrifices himself to expose the hidden truth about alien control to the entire world.
The Climactic Confrontation
In the film's climax, Nada and his ally, Frank, pursue the objective of disabling the alien signal that cloaks their true forms and subliminal messages. Their desperate journey leads them to a rooftop where the main transmitter is located. They fight their way through obstacles, determined to reach their goal.
A Shocking Betrayal and Desperate Acts
Upon reaching the transmitter, a critical turn of events unfolds:
- Holly's Treachery: Holly, who had previously seemed like a potential ally or love interest, is shockingly revealed to be a collaborator with the alien forces. She is directly implicated as being responsible for a prior raid, indicating her deep involvement in the conspiracy.
- Frank's Murder: In a brutal act of betrayal, Holly murders Frank, a devastating blow to Nada and the mission.
- Nada's Retaliation: Enraged and driven by vengeance for his fallen comrade and the urgency of his mission, Nada quickly retaliates by killing Holly.
The Truth Revealed
With Holly dealt with, Nada wastes no time in destroying the alien transmitter. This pivotal action immediately disables the signal that has kept humanity enslaved in ignorance. The destruction of the transmitter allows all of humanity to see the aliens and their subliminal commands for what they truly are, revealing the hidden reality of their existence.
A Hero's Final Sacrifice
While the truth is finally broadcast to the world, Nada's victory comes at a tragic cost. Shortly after destroying the transmitter, he is mortally wounded by a police helicopter that arrives on the scene. Nada succumbs to his injuries, his final act being the liberation of humanity's perception. The film ends with a world suddenly awakened to its hidden oppressors, thanks to Nada's ultimate sacrifice.
