The movie 1917 ends with Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) successfully delivering the vital message to Colonel Mackenzie (Benedict Cumberbatch), preventing the planned attack on the German ambush and saving the lives of 1,600 British soldiers, including Blake’s brother, Joseph. Exhausted and emotionally drained, Schofield then finds Blake’s brother and delivers the heartbreaking news of his brother’s death, before sitting beneath a tree with photographs of his family, finding solace in the quiet moment of survival and remembrance.
The Weight of a Message Delivered: Unpacking the Final Scene
The ending of 1917 is deliberately understated, a stark contrast to the relentless tension and visual spectacle that precede it. It’s not a scene of triumphant celebration, but rather a quiet moment of reflection for Schofield. The weight of his journey, the lives lost, and the enormity of what he accomplished are palpable. The simple act of sitting beneath a tree and looking at the photographs of his family represents a return to normalcy, a yearning for the life he almost lost, and a poignant reminder of what he fought to protect.
The successful delivery of the message to Colonel Mackenzie is crucial, but the emotional core of the ending lies in Schofield’s interaction with Joseph Blake and his subsequent quiet contemplation. The delivery of the news about his brother is handled with sensitivity and respect. It’s a scene that underscores the personal cost of war, highlighting the bond between brothers and the devastating impact of loss on individuals and families.
The final shot, with Schofield resting beneath the tree, is a powerful image of resilience and remembrance. It symbolizes the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. He has survived, but he is forever changed. The war will continue, but Schofield has found a temporary respite, a moment of peace amidst the chaos. The audience is left to ponder the long-term impact of his experience and the enduring legacy of the war.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ending of 1917
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the ending of 1917, exploring its deeper meaning and impact.
H3: Did Schofield Actually Save All 1,600 Soldiers?
It’s highly probable that Schofield’s message saved a significant portion, if not all, of the 1,600 soldiers. Colonel Mackenzie, upon receiving the message, immediately calls off the attack. While some soldiers may have already engaged in skirmishes, the main assault was averted. The film emphasizes the importance of the message’s timely delivery to prevent a full-scale engagement into a German ambush, meaning most, if not all, lives were likely saved.
H3: Why is Schofield’s Meeting with Blake’s Brother So Important?
This meeting is the emotional crux of the film’s ending. It transforms the mission from a purely strategic objective to a deeply personal one. Schofield’s promise to Blake to find his brother becomes his primary motivation, adding a profound layer of human connection to the narrative. Delivering the news, however heartbreaking, fulfills that promise and demonstrates Schofield’s integrity and empathy, even in the midst of war.
H3: What is the Significance of the Photographs at the End?
The photographs represent Schofield’s life before the war, his family, and the normalcy he desperately craves. They serve as a powerful reminder of what he is fighting for and the life he hopes to return to. The act of looking at them is a moment of solace and introspection, allowing him to connect with his past and find strength for the future. The photos are a symbol of hope and the enduring power of love amidst the horrors of war.
H3: Why Doesn’t Schofield Celebrate or Show More Emotion After Delivering the Message?
Schofield’s subdued reaction is a realistic portrayal of the psychological impact of war. He has witnessed immense violence, endured tremendous hardship, and suffered significant loss. The trauma he has experienced has likely numbed him, making a triumphant celebration feel inappropriate and impossible. His weariness and quiet contemplation reflect the profound emotional toll of his experience.
H3: What Happens to Schofield After the Film Ends?
The film leaves Schofield’s future ambiguous. We don’t know what happens to him after the war. However, based on his experiences, it’s likely he will carry the weight of his memories for the rest of his life. He may struggle with PTSD or other mental health issues. The film suggests that while he survived the physical battle, the internal scars will remain.
H3: How Does the Ending Compare to Other War Films?
Unlike many war films that end with grand battles or heroic sacrifices, 1917 opts for a more intimate and reflective conclusion. It focuses on the individual experience of war and the long-lasting impact it has on those who survive. The ending emphasizes the emotional toll of war rather than the strategic victory, setting it apart from more traditional war narratives.
H3: Does the Film’s Ending Suggest a Message About the Futility of War?
While 1917 doesn’t explicitly state that war is futile, the ending implicitly suggests it. The cost of saving 1,600 lives is the loss of many others, including Blake. The film highlights the senselessness of war and the devastating impact it has on individuals and families. The quiet, reflective ending reinforces the idea that war leaves lasting scars and that true victory is often elusive.
H3: Why is the Tree Such an Important Symbol in the Final Scene?
The tree symbolizes life, resilience, and a connection to nature. After enduring the horrors of war, Schofield seeks solace in the natural world. The tree offers him a moment of peace and a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of life, a stark contrast to the destruction and chaos he has witnessed.
H3: What Role Does Luck Play in Schofield’s Survival?
While Schofield displays courage and determination, luck undoubtedly plays a significant role in his survival. He narrowly escapes death on numerous occasions, often by chance or circumstance. This element of luck highlights the unpredictable and arbitrary nature of war, where survival can often depend on being in the right place at the right time.
H3: Is the Ending Historically Accurate?
While the specific story of Schofield and Blake is fictional, the film’s depiction of the Western Front and the conditions faced by soldiers is historically accurate. The film strives to portray the brutality, chaos, and emotional toll of trench warfare in a realistic and compelling way. The use of reconnaissance and the urgency of communication were critical aspects of battlefield strategy during World War I.
H3: How Does the Ending Reflect the Overall Themes of the Film?
The ending encapsulates the major themes of 1917: the horrors of war, the importance of human connection, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring impact of trauma. It reinforces the film’s message that war is not just about grand strategies and political objectives, but about the individual experiences of soldiers and the lasting scars it leaves on their lives.
H3: What is the Lasting Impact of the Movie’s Ending on Viewers?
The ending of 1917 is designed to be emotionally resonant and thought-provoking. It leaves viewers contemplating the cost of war, the importance of human compassion, and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity. The film’s understated ending encourages reflection and a deeper understanding of the human experience during wartime. It compels the audience to remember and honor the sacrifices made by soldiers and to appreciate the fragility of peace.
Conclusion: Beyond the Battlefield
The ending of 1917 is not a grand spectacle, but a powerful and poignant meditation on the human cost of war. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of remembrance. Schofield’s journey ends not with a celebration, but with a quiet moment of solace, a testament to the enduring impact of war and the hope for a future beyond the battlefield.