Volunteers Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Volunteers.
Volunteers Ending Explained: After graduating from Yale in 1962, womanizing Lawrence flees a gambling debt that his rich dad won't pay and takes his roomie's place as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Thai Golden Triangle with two other PCVs. Directed by Nicholas Meyer, this 1985 comedy film stars Tom Hanks (Lawrence Whatley Bourne III), alongside John Candy as Tom Tuttle, Rita Wilson as Beth Wexler, Tim Thomerson as John Reynolds. Rated 5.6/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Volunteers?
After graduating from Yale in 1962, womanizing Lawrence flees a gambling debt that his rich dad won't pay and takes his roomie's place as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Thai Golden Triangle with two other PCVs. Will he survive two years?
Nicholas Meyer's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Tom Hanks (Lawrence Whatley Bourne III)'s journey. Will he survive two years.
How Does Tom Hanks (Lawrence Whatley Bourne III)'s Story End?
- Tom Hanks: Tom Hanks's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- John Candy (Tom Tuttle): John Candy's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Rita Wilson (Beth Wexler): Rita Wilson's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Volunteers Mean?
The ending of Volunteers brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Tom Hanks's story may not satisfy all audiences.