In the climax of the film, Nikolai Luzhin (played by Viggo Mortensen) rises to a position of power within the Russian mafia in London, solidifying his loyalty to the crime family while navigating complex alliances and betrayals.
Throughout the movie, Nikolai, a mysterious and enigmatic member of the Vory v Zakone (Russian mafia), works as a driver and enforcer for the ruthless crime boss Semyon (played by Armin Mueller-Stahl). As Nikolai becomes increasingly embroiled in the criminal underworld, he forms a bond with Anna (played by Naomi Watts), a midwife who uncovers evidence of the mafia’s involvement in human trafficking.
In the final moments of the film, Nikolai confronts Semyon and his son Kirill (played by Vincent Cassel), revealing that he has been working as an undercover agent for the Russian secret service. Nikolai orchestrates a violent coup within the mafia, eliminating Semyon and Kirill and seizing control of the organization.
The film ends with Nikolai assuming leadership of the Russian mafia, using his newfound power to dismantle the human trafficking operation and protect Anna and her family from further harm.
Through its gritty and suspenseful conclusion, “Eastern Promises” explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption in the shadowy world of organized crime. The ending of the film leaves viewers with a sense of ambiguity, as Nikolai’s true motivations and allegiances remain shrouded in mystery.