SPOILERS:
I know it's not all that surprising that we disagree again, but I really think you missed the message of the whole movie. The film is less about the shock of the main character's death at the end, and more about the journey toward accepting that fate. I wouldn't believe you if you told me the ending caught you off guard. The entire film suggests that he's already dead or dying, and by the time the end confirms that fact, we have no real choice but to accept it, almost with a sense of relief, much like Jacob does himself. I personally find the film heartbreaking and extraordinarily bold. Watching Jacob struggle to retain his humanity, his memories, his friends, family, his pull toward affection and sexuality, and his decision to let it all go... Simply heartbreaking. The metaphor in which he is given in the final moments of the film, regarding the demons that are pulling his life away from him, and that once he stops fighting them, he sees them for angels, that are really freeing him from the earth. Beautiful writing, and execution. The film is scary, and devastating all at once. Tim Robbins' performance here is top notch. Personally, it's even served to help me accept issues in my own life and past, and while I understand if it's not your cup of tea, I think it's a perfect film.
