Tars and Stripes Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Tars and Stripes.
Tars and Stripes Ending Explained: Naval recruit Elmer is seemingly unable to discharge any of his duties without making life miserable for his irascible commanding officer, who winds up getting doused with paint, splattered with muck, and repeatedly tossed into the water due to Elmer's ineptitude. Directed by Charles Lamont, this 1935 comedy film stars Buster Keaton (Apprentice Seaman Elmer Doolittle), alongside Vernon Dent as Chief Gunners Mate Richard Mack, Dorothea Kent as Mack's Girlfriend, Jack Shutta as Sailor. Rated 4.6/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Tars and Stripes?
Naval recruit Elmer is seemingly unable to discharge any of his duties without making life miserable for his irascible commanding officer, who winds up getting doused with paint, splattered with muck, and repeatedly tossed into the water due to Elmer's ineptitude. To make matters worse, Elmer takes a shine to the CO's girlfriend, which prompts her jealous boyfriend into several wrathful chases after Elmer. He eventually has Elmer locked in the brig -- but his girlfriend is in there too, so she can be together with her beloved Elmer.
Charles Lamont's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Buster Keaton (Apprentice Seaman Elmer Doolittle)'s journey. To make matters worse, Elmer takes a shine to the CO's girlfriend, which prompts her jealous boyfriend into several wrathful chases after Elmer.
How Does Buster Keaton (Apprentice Seaman Elmer Doolittle)'s Story End?
- Buster Keaton: Buster Keaton's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Vernon Dent (Chief Gunners Mate Richard Mack): Vernon Dent's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Dorothea Kent (Mack's Girlfriend): Dorothea Kent's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Tars and Stripes Mean?
The ending of Tars and Stripes brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Buster Keaton's story may not satisfy all audiences.