Doughboys Ending Explained: What Really Happened?

Doughboys Ending Explained: Elmer, rich society loafer, falls for Mary, but she'll have nothing to do with him until (mistakenly thinking that he's hiring a new chauffeur) he accidentally volunteers for the army. Directed by Edward Sedgwick, this 1930 comedy film stars Buster Keaton (Elmer J. Stuyvesant, Jr.), alongside Sally Eilers as Mary, Cliff Edwards as Nescopeck, Edward Brophy as Sgt. Brophy. With a 6.1/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Doughboys?

Elmer, rich society loafer, falls for Mary, but she'll have nothing to do with him until (mistakenly thinking that he's hiring a new chauffeur) he accidentally volunteers for the army. Luckily, Mary's signed up to entertain the troops. Unluckily, Elmer's sergeant likes Mary, too. And worst of all, they're all about to ship out for France.

Edward Sedgwick's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Buster Keaton (Elmer J. Stuyvesant, Jr.)'s journey. Luckily, Mary's signed up to entertain the troops.

How Does Buster Keaton (Elmer J. Stuyvesant, Jr.)'s Story End?

Buster Keaton: Buster Keaton's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
Sally Eilers (Mary): Sally Eilers's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
Cliff Edwards (Nescopeck): Cliff Edwards's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is Doughboys Based on a True Story?

Yes — Doughboys draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Edward Sedgwick has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of Doughboys Mean?

Doughboys's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Buster Keaton may feel rushed. Edward Sedgwick's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.