Gun Smoke Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Gun Smoke.
Gun Smoke Ending Explained: Following a killing and robbery in a big city back east, gang leader Kedge Darvas and some of his henchies take a train to a small western town in Idaho, with intentions of hiding out there until things cool down back in Chi or NYC, or wherever they lammed from. Directed by Edward Sloman, this 1931 western film stars Richard Arlen (Brad Farley), alongside Mary Brian as Sue Vancey, Eugene Pallette as Stub Wallock, William 'Stage' Boyd as Kedge Darvis. With a 6.7/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Gun Smoke?
Following a killing and robbery in a big city back east, gang leader Kedge Darvas and some of his henchies take a train to a small western town in Idaho, with intentions of hiding out there until things cool down back in Chi or NYC, or wherever they lammed from.They are welcomed with open arms by the citizens under the impression they are there as capital investors with money to spend. Before long, Darvas figures the town is ripe for the taking and sends word for reinforcements, and each arriving train unloads a few suits and snappy-brim hats.Then they get rough, kill Sheriff Posey Meed and rile up the citizens, led by cowhand Brad Farley, who had Darvas spotted for a wrong number just by the way he made moves on Sue Vancey.
Edward Sloman's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Richard Arlen (Brad Farley)'s journey. They are welcomed with open arms by the citizens under the impression they are there as capital investors with money to spend.
How Does Richard Arlen (Brad Farley)'s Story End?
- Richard Arlen: Richard Arlen's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Mary Brian (Sue Vancey): Mary Brian's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Eugene Pallette (Stub Wallock): Eugene Pallette's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Gun Smoke Mean?
Gun Smoke's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Richard Arlen may feel rushed. Edward Sloman's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.