American Assassin

Year: 2017

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Cuesta

ActionThriller

A black ops CIA recruit, Mitch Rapp, is thrust into a dangerous world when he joins forces with seasoned operative Stan Hurley and Deputy Director Irene Kennedy. They investigate a series of escalating attacks and uncover a complex web of deceit. Their mission takes them across the globe, partnering with a skilled Turkish agent as they attempt to stop a rogue operative determined to destabilize the Middle East and trigger worldwide chaos.

Warning: spoilers below!

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American Assassin (2017) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of American Assassin (2017), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

While enjoying a vacation in sunny Spain, Mitch Rapp pops the question to his girlfriend, who joyfully accepts. However, their moment of happiness is shattered just moments later when a jihadist cell launches a deadly assault on unsuspecting tourists, resulting in her tragic death. This heinous act is intended to let Americans experience the heartache of losing loved ones, but it ignites a fierce determination within Mitch to seek vengeance on those responsible for the tragedy.

Driven by his grief, Mitch embarks on an intense physical training regimen, unaware that the vigilant U.S. government is observing his progress with keen interest. Irene Kennedy, a skilled CIA agent, recognizes his potential and recruits him into a covert ‘black ops’ unit, introducing him to the seasoned operative Stan Hurley, a former Navy SEAL, for advanced training.

As global tensions escalate, Mitch and Stan quickly find themselves in Istanbul, where they are joined by CIA operative Annika, played by [Shiva Negar]. Under the guise of a newlywed couple, they are sent to thwart a plot that involves the construction of a nuclear bomb by jihadists. However, when the mission takes unexpected turns, Mitch’s clever improvisation, despite disobeying direct orders, begins to turn the tide.

The situation becomes even more precarious when they learn that Ghost, a mercenary with ties to Stan’s past team, is now on the enemy’s payroll. Adding to the chaos, it becomes clear that Annika is secretly aligned with the Iranian government. With multiple obstacles in their path, the operation evolves into a collaborative effort between the CIA and Mossad, the Israeli intelligence service.

As the tension reaches a breaking point, a thrilling chase ensues, leading to an explosive climax where Mitch takes drastic action to protect his country. He manages to throw the nuclear bomb overboard, allowing it to detonate in the ocean’s depths. In the aftermath of this explosive encounter, an Iranian military official, intricately linked to the bomb’s origins, publicly blames the United States for his nation’s issues and vows retaliation. Little does he know, lurking behind him in an elevator is none other than Mitch - the American Assassin.

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 22:17

Ending Explained – What Happens at the End of American Assassin?

Still wondering what the ending of American Assassin (2017) really means? Here’s a spoiler-heavy breakdown of the final scene, major twists, and the deeper themes that shape the film’s conclusion.

At the end of “American Assassin,” Mitch Rapp successfully prevents a nuclear catastrophe by tracking down and killing the mercenary Ghost, who had planned to unleash a nuclear bomb on the Sixth Fleet. In the climax, Rapp chases Ghost onto his boat, fights him, and ultimately kills him, tossing the bomb into the water where it detonates harmlessly, creating a massive sinkhole but sparing the fleet from total destruction. This act of heroism also sets up Rapp’s ongoing quest for justice, as he silently nods to Iranian General Rostami, who is involved in the nuclear plot. The scene implies that Rapp intends to assassinate Rostami to avenge the death of his friend Annika and to prevent further terrorist acts.

In the final moments, Hurley, Rapp’s CIA mentor, who has shown little emotion throughout the story, makes a dramatic return to save him from Ghost’s captivity. Hurley orders Rapp to throw the nuclear bomb into the sea, effectively saving him and allowing Rapp to escape. Hurley’s actions serve as a form of redemption for him, and his return signifies the deepening of their bond. As the story closes, Rostami and his entourage enter an elevator, and a smiling Rapp exchanges a nod with Rostami before the doors close. This quiet gesture hints that Rapp is about to fulfill his plan to eliminate Rostami in retaliation, likely through assassination, to stop him from gaining power and to avenge the losses he’s suffered, especially the death of Annika.

Throughout the film, themes of revenge, loyalty, and justice drive the story’s conclusion. While Ghost’s failed plan underscores the risks of greed and extremism, it also leaves the door open for Rapp’s continued fight against those who threaten peace. The ending leaves viewers pondering Rapp’s next move, hinting that his mission to hunt down and eliminate corrupt figures like Rostami is ongoing, and setting up the possibility of future adventures. However, the film does not explicitly confirm a sequel, leaving Rapp’s future actions to be imagined, yet clearly motivated by his desire to right the wrongs he’s faced. The cinematic finale presents a mix of action, emotion, and unresolved tension, emphasizing that Rapp’s journey for justice is far from over.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:00

Unlock the Full Story of American Assassin

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American Assassin Timeline

Track the full timeline of American Assassin with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Characters, Settings & Themes in American Assassin

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American Assassin Ending Explained

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More About American Assassin

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