Railroadin' Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Railroadin'.
Railroadin' Ending Explained: The gang is playing around the railroad station, and Joe and Chubby's father, an engineer, lectures against the kids playing in such a dangerous area. Directed by Robert F. McGowan, this 1929 comedy film stars Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins (Wheezer), alongside Joe Cobb as Joe, Allen 'Farina' Hoskins as Farina, Mary Ann Jackson as Mary Ann. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Railroadin'?
The gang is playing around the railroad station, and Joe and Chubby's father, an engineer, lectures against the kids playing in such a dangerous area. True to his word, after Joe and Chubby's father leaves, a crazy man starts a train with most of the kids on it, save for Farina who is nearly run over several times. Once Farina manages to climb aboard himself, the kids attempt to stop the runaway locomotive, but have no luck until the engine crashes into a grocery truck. As it turns out, however, the entire incident is revealed to be a dream Farina had as Joe and Chubby's father lectured the kids about rail-yard safety.
Robert F. McGowan's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins (Wheezer)'s journey. True to his word, after Joe and Chubby's father leaves, a crazy man starts a train with most of the kids on it, save for Farina who is nearly run over several times.
How Does Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins (Wheezer)'s Story End?
- Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins: Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Joe Cobb (Joe): Joe Cobb's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Allen 'Farina' Hoskins (Farina): Allen 'Farina' Hoskins's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Railroadin' Mean?
Railroadin''s ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Bobby 'Wheezer' Hutchins may feel rushed. Robert F. McGowan's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.