In the pivotal scene where Ed serenades Mona with ‘I Will Always Love You,’ she prepares to leave town, but he intervenes just in time. Spotting her packed bags in the truck, Ed rushes into the house, pouring out his love and proposing marriage.
While touched by his gesture, Mona musters the strength to decline, expressing her fear of becoming an obstacle in his life despite her lifelong love for him. With a heavy heart, she explains, “As much as I’d love for it to work, I know deep down it ain’t ever going to be.”
Undeterred, Ed insists that their love could conquer all, prompting Mona to bid her farewell through a poignant rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You,’ signifying her enduring affection.
Even after the heartfelt performance, Ed remains resolute, caring little about societal opinions and urging her to accept his proposal. This emotional climax stands out as the most powerful moment in the movie.
Nevertheless, the sheriff remains unmoved, leaving Mona in shock as he loads her belongings onto his own truck. Despite her disbelief, Mona eventually joins Ed Earl in his vehicle, driving off into the sunset and towards their happily-ever-after.
Dolly Parton’s rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You’ made history, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart twice—first in June 1974 and then in October 1982, following its feature in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
