Slaying the Badger Ending Explained: Before Lance Armstrong, there was Greg LeMond, who is now the first and only American to win the Tour de France. Directed by John Dower, this 2014 documentary film stars Greg LeMond (Self), alongside Bernard Hinault as Self, Paul Köchli as Self, Kathy LeMond as Self. With a 6.8/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Slaying the Badger?

Before Lance Armstrong, there was Greg LeMond, who is now the first and only American to win the Tour de France. In this engrossing documentary, LeMond looks back at the pivotal 1986 Tour, and his increasingly vicious rivalry with friend, teammate, and mentor Bernard Hinault. The reigning Tour champion and brutal competitor known as “The Badger,” Hinault ‘promised’ to help LeMond to his first victory, in return for LeMond supporting him in the previous year. But in a sport that purports to reward teamwork, it’s really every man for himself.

John Dower's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Greg LeMond (Self)'s journey. In this engrossing documentary, LeMond looks back at the pivotal 1986 Tour, and his increasingly vicious rivalry with friend, teammate, and mentor Bernard Hinault.

How Does Greg LeMond (Self)'s Story End?

  • Greg LeMond: Greg LeMond's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Bernard Hinault (Self): Bernard Hinault's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Paul Köchli (Self): Paul Köchli's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Slaying the Badger Mean?

Slaying the Badger's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Greg LeMond may feel rushed. John Dower's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.