The Deal Ending Explained: What Really Happened?

The Deal Ending Explained: It is approaching an election in the UK when the leader of the Labour party, John Smith, suffers another in a line of heart attacks and dies. Directed by Stephen Frears, this 2003 comedy film stars David Morrissey (Gordon Brown), alongside Matt Blair as Ed Balls, Michael Sheen as Tony Blair, Dexter Fletcher as Charlie Whelan. With a 6.8/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of The Deal?

It is approaching an election in the UK when the leader of the Labour party, John Smith, suffers another in a line of heart attacks and dies. With the leadership campaign about to start the clear choice appears to be Gordon Brown, a stanch Scotsman. However Tony Blair is also beginning to appear more likely as he will appeal to Southern voters who would be turned off by Brown. Blair rings Brown to arrange a meeting to discuss which will go for the job. The film flashbacks to the start of their relationship, sharing an office in Westminster on their first seats.

Stephen Frears's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on David Morrissey (Gordon Brown)'s journey. With the leadership campaign about to start the clear choice appears to be Gordon Brown, a stanch Scotsman.

How Does David Morrissey (Gordon Brown)'s Story End?

David Morrissey: David Morrissey's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
Matt Blair (Ed Balls): Matt Blair's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
Michael Sheen (Tony Blair): Michael Sheen's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Deal Mean?

The Deal's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving David Morrissey may feel rushed. Stephen Frears's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.