American Assassin

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) – Ending Explained & Final Scene Breakdown

Still thinking about how American Assassin (2017) ended? Here’s a full breakdown of the ending, key final moments, major twists, and the deeper meaning behind 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

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American Assassin Summary

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American Assassin Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in American Assassin

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Characters, Settings & Themes in American Assassin

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