Assassins Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of Assassins?

Assassin Robert Rath arrives at a funeral to kill a prominent mobster, only to witness a rival hired gun complete the job for him -- with grisly results. Horrified by the murder of innocent bystanders, Rath decides to take one last job and then return to civilian life. But finding his way out of the world of contract killing grows ever more dangerous as Rath falls for his female target and becomes a marked man himself.

Richard Donner's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Sylvester Stallone (Robert Rath)'s journey. Horrified by the murder of innocent bystanders, Rath decides to take one last job and then return to civilian life.

How Does Sylvester Stallone (Robert Rath)'s Story End?

• Sylvester Stallone: Sylvester Stallone's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Antonio Banderas (Miguel Bain): Antonio Banderas's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Julianne Moore (Electra): Julianne Moore's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Assassins Mean?

Assassins's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Sylvester Stallone may feel rushed. Richard Donner's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution. Based on 1,699 audience ratings, the consensus is that the ending is adequate but divisive.