For me, it was a relief to see a realistic approach being taken to a lgbt film without it having to be completely and utterly hopeless. It's bittersweet ending still maintains the realism that most lgbt films aim to attain, with Clive having to endure the consequences his actions, albeit reasonable given the setting that the film takes place in. The happy ending with Maurice and Alec conveyed a hopeful and important message, especially during the time it was filmed, that despite the adversities that homosexuals went or go through, they don't have to and shouldn't repress the feelings that allow them to be who they are.