Last Flag Flying (2017)

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In the ending of "Last Flag Flying," Sal, Mueller, and Doc attend the funeral of Sal's son, who was killed in Iraq. They share a moment of reflection and camaraderie, honoring the memory of the fallen soldier. The film concludes with the three men parting ways, having forged a deeper bond through their shared experiences and the loss they have endured.

As the film approaches its conclusion, the scene shifts to the funeral service for Sal's son, who has been killed in action. The atmosphere is somber, filled with the weight of grief and loss. Sal, visibly shaken, stands at the front of the church, surrounded by the American flag draped over his son's casket. The camera captures the faces of mourners, each reflecting their own sorrow and respect for the young man who has sacrificed his life.

Mueller and Doc, standing beside Sal, offer silent support. Their expressions reveal a mix of empathy and shared pain, as they too have faced the harsh realities of war. The service unfolds with a eulogy, where Sal's son is remembered not just as a soldier, but as a person with dreams and aspirations. Sal's heartache is palpable, and the audience can feel the depth of his loss as he grapples with the finality of his son's death.

After the service, the three men step outside into the daylight, the weight of the moment still heavy on their shoulders. They share a quiet moment, reflecting on their journey together. Sal expresses his gratitude to Mueller and Doc for being there for him during this difficult time. The bond they have formed throughout their road trip and the shared experience of loss has transformed their relationship from mere acquaintances to brothers in arms.

As they prepare to part ways, the camera lingers on each character, capturing their emotional states. Sal, though devastated, finds a sense of closure in honoring his son. Mueller, who has been a steadfast presence, shows a hint of vulnerability, revealing the toll that the journey has taken on him. Doc, the most introspective of the trio, contemplates the meaning of their experiences and the impact of war on their lives.

In the final moments, the three men embrace, a gesture that signifies their newfound connection and understanding. They exchange words of encouragement, promising to stay in touch, even as they go their separate ways. The film closes with Sal walking away, the flag of his son's casket in the background, symbolizing both the pride and the pain of his loss. The screen fades to black, leaving the audience with a sense of the enduring impact of friendship, sacrifice, and the complexities of grief.

In the movie "Last Flag Flying," there is no post-credit scene. The film concludes with a poignant ending that encapsulates the emotional journey of the characters without any additional scenes after the credits. The story focuses on three Vietnam War veterans--Sal Nealon, Richard "Doc" Shepherd, and Mueller--who reunite to bury Doc's son, a young Marine killed in Iraq. The film emphasizes themes of friendship, loss, and the complexities of war, leaving the audience with a sense of closure as the characters reflect on their past and the impact of their experiences.

Sal Nealon, played by Bryan Cranston, is motivated by a deep sense of loyalty and friendship to his old comrades, as well as a desire to support his friend, Doc, in his time of grief. Sal's brash and outspoken personality masks a profound emotional connection to the military and the sacrifices made by soldiers, which drives him to accompany Doc on this poignant journey.

Doc, portrayed by Steve Carell, begins the film as a reserved and grieving father, struggling with the loss of his son, who has died in combat. As the journey progresses, he confronts his pain and the complexities of his relationship with his son, ultimately finding a sense of closure and connection with his past and his friends. His emotional evolution is marked by moments of vulnerability, anger, and eventual acceptance.

Mueller, played by Laurence Fishburne, serves as a stabilizing force among the trio of friends. He is a former Marine who has found a different path in life, running a bar and living a quieter existence. His character provides a contrast to Sal's brashness and Doc's sorrow, often offering wisdom and perspective. Mueller's presence highlights themes of friendship and the different ways veterans cope with their experiences.

The road trip serves as a physical and emotional journey for the characters, allowing them to reconnect with each other and confront their pasts. As they travel from Virginia to Arlington, the landscapes they pass through reflect their internal struggles and the weight of their memories. The trip becomes a catalyst for healing, as they share stories, confront their grief, and ultimately honor the memory of Doc's son.

Throughout their journey, the characters encounter various bureaucratic obstacles that highlight the often impersonal nature of military processes. They face challenges in obtaining the necessary permissions and navigating the red tape involved in retrieving Doc's son's body. These interactions evoke frustration and anger, particularly from Sal, who feels that the military's treatment of families is inadequate. This aspect of the plot underscores the emotional toll that such bureaucracy can take on grieving families.

"Last Flag Flying" is a film that deals with heavy themes and emotional subject matter, making it less suitable for younger audiences or sensitive viewers. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects:

1. Death and Grief: The central plot revolves around the death of a young soldier, which leads to scenes of mourning and discussions about loss. The emotional weight of these moments can be quite intense.

2. War Themes: The film explores the impact of war on individuals and families, including discussions about the realities of military service and the consequences of combat.

3. Language: There is strong language throughout the film, which may not be appropriate for children.

4. Substance Use: Characters are shown drinking alcohol, and there are references to past substance abuse, which may be concerning for some viewers.

5. Emotional Conflict: The characters experience significant emotional turmoil, including anger, regret, and existential reflection, which may be difficult for younger viewers to process.

6. Violence: While not graphic, there are references to violence related to war and its aftermath, which could be distressing.

Overall, the film's exploration of complex themes surrounding loss, friendship, and the impact of war may resonate more with adult audiences than with children.