Speed to Spare Ending Explained: Stunt driver Cliff Jordan takes a job with his old pal Jerry McGee, branch manager of an express trucking firm. Directed by William Berke, this 1948 drama film stars Richard Arlen (Cliff Jordan), alongside Jean Rogers as Mary McGee, Richard Travis as Jerry McGee, Roscoe Karns as Kangaroo. With a 6.7/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Speed to Spare?

Stunt driver Cliff Jordan takes a job with his old pal Jerry McGee, branch manager of an express trucking firm. Jerry is married to Mary, Cliff's former girl friend. Also working for Jerry is Pete Simmons, son of the owner Al Simmons, and office secretary Jane Chandler, who is Pete's sweetheart. Before long, Cliff has made enemies of Pusher Wilks, a trucker whose run he takes over, and also Pete, whose girl he is trying to take over. Pusher sabotages Cliff's rig at every opportunity causing several near-fatal accidents.

William Berke's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Richard Arlen (Cliff Jordan)'s journey. Jerry is married to Mary, Cliff's former girl friend.

How Does Richard Arlen (Cliff Jordan)'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.
  • Jean Rogers (Mary McGee): Jean Rogers's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Richard Travis (Jerry McGee): Richard Travis's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Speed to Spare Mean?

Speed to Spare's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Richard Arlen may feel rushed. William Berke's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.