It's been a long time since I've seen this. I can't remember if they ever said why he did it.
shareThe thing is, in New York City they've got this thing called the Rat Race.
Apparently it has a way of chewing people up and spitting them out.
"They who... give up... liberty to obtain... safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety."
To archosman,
I don't recall that they ever did. It might have had something to do with the woman he loved and lost even if it was years ago. He became very upset when Norville got to that part of the "blue letter."
I always got the feeling it was because he had already led a long life, and his professional success was at it's peak. There is a stoic look of contentment on his face as he listens to the board detail the extent of Hudsucker Industry's current position. He wanted to exit on a high note.
I am Jack's IMDb post.share
Points of reference: watch the classic Twilight Zone episodes 'Walking Distance', and 'A Stop at Willoughby' (both on Youtube, I believe - half-hour's each). That was late-50's period business malaise and suicidal urge entertainment as well. If you don't understand the desire to get off that merry-go-'round, maybe these pov's will help you empathize. They are wonderful.
"I'm Glad" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQP9QjNjeR4
I think his suicide was just a McGuffin.
shareI think his suicide was just a McGuffin.Bingo, nice call. Hudsucker has to die, it is a McGuffin, it could have been a heart attack or an accident or a murder, he has to die.
he had loved a girl, and he couldnt get her, mussberger did. he was sad and lonely, and though his company was doing very well, he always felt empty insideThis is the particular choice that the Coens went with, and they used it as a joke that she was pretty hideous and unbearable if I remember correctly. The suicide method or the suicide itself felt organic to the movie in my opinion. share
[deleted]
In case anyone is still reading this, here is exactly what WH said in the Blue Letter:
"You will no doubt be wondering why I've decided to end my tenure both at Hudsucker and here on earth. From the standpoint of our balance sheet and financials sure, we're doing fine. But in my personal life, I have made grave errors. I let my success become my identity. I have foolishly played the great man and watched my life become more and more empty as a result. My vanity drove away she [sic] who could've saved me. Yes, I loved a woman once, Sid, as you well know. A beautiful, vibrant lady and angel who, in her wisdom, saw fit to choose you instead of I [sic]."
-------------------------
http://home.austin.rr.com/mossmiciotto/bart_google.jpg
Because he finally realised he was an evil corporate capitalist.
Nothing to lose but our chains, we have a world to win
Yeah... no. Your opinion on capitalism doesn't weigh into the movie. Him having a sudden heel realization wasn't so much as hinted at.
The knack to flying lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.