Last Flag Flying

Main Plot

Last Flag Flying follows three Vietnam War veterans who reunite after many years when one of their sons, a young Marine, is killed in Iraq. The trio, consisting of a former Navy corpsman and two soldiers, embarks on a road trip to attend the funeral. As they travel together, they reflect on their past experiences in the war, their lives since then, and the impact of their service on their personal identities. The journey becomes a poignant exploration of friendship, loss, and the complexities of patriotism. Along the way, they confront their memories, grapple with their differing views on military service, and seek to honor the memory of the fallen soldier. The film blends humor and drama, capturing the emotional weight of their shared history and the challenges of coming to terms with the sacrifices made in the name of duty.

Characters

• Bryan Cranston plays Sal Nealon, a Vietnam War veteran who helps his old friends retrieve and bury one of their sons, a Marine killed in Iraq.
• Laurence Fishburne plays Reverend Richard Mueller, a former Marine who helps two old friends retrieve and bury one of their sons killed in action.
• Steve Carell plays Larry "Doc" Shepherd, a grieving father who reunites with old friends to bury his son, a Marine killed in Iraq.

Ending Explained

In Last Flag Flying, the ending brings closure to the journey of three Vietnam War veterans who reunite to bury one of their sons, a young Marine killed in Iraq. After a series of poignant and often humorous encounters, they arrive at the funeral, grappling with their own pasts and the weight of loss. The climax occurs during the burial, where the emotional toll of their experiences culminates in a heartfelt tribute to the fallen soldier. As they confront their shared history and the impact of war on their lives, the veterans find solace in their camaraderie. The film concludes with a sense of acceptance and understanding, as they reflect on the sacrifices made by their children and themselves. The final scenes emphasize the importance of friendship and the need to honor those lost, while also acknowledging the complexities of military service and the personal struggles that accompany it. Ultimately, Last Flag Flying resolves the main conflict of reconciling their past with the present, highlighting themes of grief, loyalty, and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences. The journey serves as a reminder of the costs of war and the healing power of connection among those who have faced similar trials.