Devotion

Devotion

Year: 2022

Runtime: 139 min

Language: English

Director: J.D. Dillard

ActionDramaWar

During the Korean War, two U.S. Navy fighter pilots, Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, forge a powerful friendship while facing extraordinary challenges. Based on a true story, the film explores their shared experiences as they push the boundaries of human endurance and confront the dangers of aerial combat. Their courage and camaraderie become legendary as they risk their lives in the intense conflict, leaving a lasting mark on naval history.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Devotion (2022) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Devotion (2022), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

After World War II, the United States ramped up the development of its Naval Aviation division. In early 1950, Lieutenant Tom Hudner (Glen Powell) is assigned to Fighter Squadron 32 (VF-32) at Quonset Point Naval Air Station, where he encounters Ensign Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors), the squadron’s only African American member. Hudner quickly adapts to the squadron, which operates the powerful F4U-4 Corsairs, aircraft infamous for their perilous flying characteristics if mishandled. Among the squad’s pilots are Marty Goode (Joe Jonas), Bo Lavery (Spencer Neville), Bill Koenig (Daren Kagasoff), and Carol Mohring (Nick Hargrove), under the leadership of Lieutenant Commander Dick Cevoli (Thomas Sadoski).

As Hudner partners with Brown, he discovers that Brown often deviates from the strict guidelines expected of him. After Jesse’s car breaks down, Hudner begins to offer him rides home, where he meets Jesse’s wife, Daisy (Christina Jackson), and their young daughter, Pam. Although the Browns are making progress in their lives, they must confront hostile neighbors, and Jesse finds himself resorting to demeaning self-talk to bolster his confidence before missions, shouting racist slurs at his reflection for motivation.

The squadron successfully passes their carrier tests on Corsairs, situated at Quonset Point. While Hudner achieves a perfect score, Jesse faces criticism for nearly causing disaster during his first landing attempt, forcing him to take a second shot at it. The unit then transfers to the USS Leyte, commanded by Captain T.U. Sisson (Dean Denton), and sets sail for the Mediterranean Sea to counter Soviet threats. Before the deployment, Daisy urges Hudner to promise her that he will always be there for Jesse.

Life Magazine highlights Brown’s unique position as the sole African American aviator aboard the Leyte. Jesse, however, chooses to focus solely on his responsibilities as a Naval aviator despite facing ridicule and discrimination from fellow officers and sailors. One Marine in particular takes pleasure in antagonizing Brown, yet Jesse refrains from confronting him.

Tragedy strikes when squadron member Mohring (played by Nick Hargrove) dies in a crash while attempting to land. Hudner wonders why Mohring did not adhere to the prescribed instructions, but Brown explains that defiance was often necessary for his own survival. During a shore leave in Cannes, France, Jesse has a surprising encounter with actress Elizabeth Taylor (Serinda Swan), who invites the squadron to her casino, much to everyone’s astonishment despite the challenges Jesse faces due to his race.

While at the casino, Jesse finds himself debating with the doorman who doubts Elizabeth’s invitation to him. During the visit, Elizabeth welcomes the squadron to join her at the table, which leads to a memorable night. Tensions escalate again when Hudner engages in a drunken brawl with a Marine bully. Meanwhile, Jesse receives an exquisite watch from the ship’s African American crewmen as a token of their respect for him.

However, the joy is short-lived as news arrives of the Korean War breaking out, prompting the Leyte to be redeployed to assist South Korea. In November 1950, VF-32 reaches Korea only to learn that Chinese forces have entered the conflict on the North Korean side. They are tasked with destroying crucial bridges over the Yalu River, but must operate with strict rules that limit their target zone. Commander Cevoli assures his men that they will do everything to return safely.

As Brown and Hudner engage in combat with a MiG-15, they face tremendous challenges. While Hudner retreats under heavy fire, Brown disobeys orders and courageously attacks a bridge solo, managing to damage it despite the risks involved. Although Hudner reports Brown’s bravery, it ironically casts doubt on Brown’s future promotions, revealing the deep-seated racism still present in their ranks.

Tragedy strikes again when, on a mission to assist Marines besieged at Chosin Reservoir, Brown’s plane is severely damaged and crashes in the North Korean mountains. Hudner witnesses that Brown is alive but trapped, and in a desperate act, crashes his own aircraft to aid him. Despite his heroic efforts to extinguish the flames and rescue Brown, he is ultimately unable to save him before a Marine helicopter arrives.

Back aboard the Leyte, the command decides against the risky recovery of Brown’s body from enemy territory, instead opting to destroy the remaining Corsairs as a form of final honor. Months later, a devastated Hudner receives the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman for his attempts to save Brown. In a touching moment with Daisy after the ceremony, she expresses that she only asked Hudner to be there for Jesse, not to save him, as Hudner relays Jesse’s last words of love for her.

The film concludes with a poignant acknowledgment that Jesse’s remains still lie unrecovered in North Korea, while the bonds forged between Hudner and Brown’s families remain enduring and strong.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 13:01

Ending Explained – What Happens at the End of Devotion?

Still wondering what the ending of Devotion (2022) really means? Here’s a spoiler-heavy breakdown of the final scene, major twists, and the deeper themes that shape the film’s conclusion.

The ending of “Devotion” is both heartfelt and tragic. After Jesse Brown’s plane is shot down during a mission in North Korea, Tom Hudner makes the risky decision to crash-land his own aircraft in an attempt to save his friend. Despite Tom’s heroic efforts, Jesse is injured and trapped inside the wreckage, and ultimately, he cannot be saved. As Jesse’s life fades, he asks Tom to tell his wife Daisy how much he loved her, a touching moment that underscores the deep bond between the two men. Tom’s attempt to rescue Jesse exemplifies his unwavering loyalty and brotherhood, even in the face of insurmountable danger.

In the film’s final moments, Tom is awarded the Medal of Honor as a recognition of his bravery. He promises to carry Jesse’s story forward, honoring his sacrifice and the sacrifices of many other servicemen. Jesse Brown’s death underscores the film’s themes of courage, sacrifice, and the fight against racial injustice, illustrating how Jesse’s resilience and dignity as the first Black American aviator inspired those around him. The story concludes with the families of Jesse and Tom remaining connected, emphasizing that their friendship transcended the hardships of war and prejudice. In real life, Tom Hudner’s continued efforts to locate Jesse’s remains in North Korea and his heartfelt tribute highlight the enduring significance of their brotherhood and Jesse’s legacy as a trailblazer who broke barriers. The ending leaves viewers with a poignant reminder of sacrifice and the importance of standing up against injustice, celebrating the heroism and humanity of Jesse Brown.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:00

Unlock the Full Story of Devotion

Don't stop at just watching — explore Devotion in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Devotion is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Devotion Timeline

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

Devotion Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Devotion

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Devotion. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Devotion

Devotion Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of Devotion? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

Devotion Ending Explained

More About Devotion

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Devotion: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Devotion

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