Secret Honor Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Secret Honor.
Secret Honor Ending Explained: In his New Jersey study, Richard Nixon retraces the missteps of his political career, attempting to absolve himself of responsibility for Watergate and lambasting President Gerald Ford's decision to pardon him. Directed by Robert Altman, this 1984 drama film stars Philip Baker Hall (Richard Milhous Nixon). With a 6.7/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Secret Honor?
In his New Jersey study, Richard Nixon retraces the missteps of his political career, attempting to absolve himself of responsibility for Watergate and lambasting President Gerald Ford's decision to pardon him. His monologue explores his personal life and describes his upbringing and his mother. A tape recorder, a gun and whiskey are his only companions during his entire monologue, which is tinged with the vitriol and paranoia that puzzled the public during his presidency.
Robert Altman's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Philip Baker Hall (Richard Milhous Nixon)'s journey. His monologue explores his personal life and describes his upbringing and his mother.
How Does Philip Baker Hall (Richard Milhous Nixon)'s Story End?
- Philip Baker Hall: Philip Baker Hall's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
What Does the Ending of Secret Honor Mean?
Secret Honor's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Philip Baker Hall may feel rushed. Robert Altman's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.