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Daisy Edgar-Jones and On Swift Horses Director Break Down That Hopeful “Ride into the Sunrise” Ending
Apr
While On Swift Horses ends with its three main characters seemingly alone, director Daniel Minihan and star Daisy Edgar-Jones want viewers to know the film is ultimately about hope, independence, and new beginnings.
The film’s emotional conclusion sees Muriel (Daisy Edgar-Jones) embracing her truth after realizing she’s queer. She leaves her husband, Lee (Will Poulter), and finds solace back in her mother’s long-kept home in the Midwest — a property she secretly never sold. As Muriel gazes out the window, there’s a peaceful, hopeful look on her face.
Meanwhile, Julius (Jacob Elordi), after fleeing Las Vegas and his relationship with Henry (Diego Calva), realizes he wants Henry back. In the final moments, Julius rides off into the sunrise — a literal and symbolic journey toward reclaiming love.
“A Push Toward Inner Peace”
Director Minihan emphasizes that the ending isn’t meant to be tragic or ambiguous — it’s about the characters making choices that bring them closer to happiness.
“We like to believe that eventually Muriel reconnected with Sandra,” Minihan says, referencing Muriel’s neighbor and love interest, played by Sasha Calle. “Muriel holding onto her mother’s home meant something deeply significant. She seems contented there.”
Muriel’s quiet rebellion starts much earlier, through her success at gambling, Edgar-Jones explains.
“She’s starting to push back or rebel in her own quiet way,” says Edgar-Jones. “Gambling gives her independence, the freedom to make choices based on what she wants — not out of necessity.”
But it’s not just financial independence that transforms Muriel. Meeting Sandra sparks her emotional awakening.
“When she meets Sandra, it’s so exciting,” Edgar-Jones continues. “Sandra’s comfort in her own skin gives Muriel the space to explore who she is — something that’s always been within her, even if she didn’t have the words for it yet.”
Julius’s Ride: Not Just a Metaphor
As for Julius’s dramatic ride into the sunrise? Some viewers have interpreted it metaphorically, but Minihan insists it’s very much real.
“He’s going to find Henry and probably blow up his life again,” Minihan says with a laugh. “Our intention was literal — he’s chasing after the love he realized he couldn’t live without.”
In the end, On Swift Horses leaves audiences with a bittersweet but ultimately uplifting message: freedom, love, and self-discovery are worth the risks they demand.
On Swift Horses is now playing in select theaters and available to stream.
