Russell Crowe’s 15-second cameo during the final scene of 2017’s Netflix movieWar Machineis quite baffling, but also succinctly summarizes the war movie’s message.Netflix’s collection of war moviesmostly consists of more serious stories that tell of the harrowing realities of battles across various points of history.However, one Netflix original from 2017 chose to tackle a more recent war somewhat differently, showcasing a new perspective that leaned more into the satirical space.
Netflix’s War Machineis based on Michael Hasting’s nonfiction novelThe Operatorsand follows General Glen McMahon (Brad Pitt), a larger-than-life figure in this fictionalized version of the war in Afghanistan. McMahon is tasked by the president to come up with a strategic assessment to end the ongoing war. However, McMahon is comically thwarted at every turn, causing the war to persist and escalate due to his actions. Likemost Netflix movies, the film’s story is both succinct and layered, but the question of whyWar Machineended with that Russell Crowe cameo was only really answered by the film’s director.
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Why War Machine Ends With A 15-Second Russell Crowe Cameo
Director David Michod Discussed War Machine’s Ending With MovieFone
War Machine’sdirector David Michod outlined his reasoning behind Crowe’s cameo, adding more nuance to the satirical film.At the end ofWar Machine,McMahon is fired due to his actions and an article written byRolling Stonewriter Sean Cullen (Scoot McNairy).As a result, a new general is appointed to take up the task. Crowe is seen in the final few seconds of the film, marching with his team through the airport, with a sneer as the uncredited General Bob White.
Michod discussed his choice behind the casting and how the message of that final scene was a summary of the whole film.According to a 2017 interview withMoviefone, Michod wanted to highlight the larger issues with America’s approach to the war at the time.He outlined its cyclical nature despite the lack of results, with their persistent approaches to finishing the conflict usually ending poorly. Crowe’s character was meant to symbolize that endless cycle, which actually works quite well in tying upWar Machine’sultimate message.
Why War Machine’s Weird Russell Crowe Ending Actually Works
Crowe’s Acting Conveys The Film’s Final Message Efficiently
The ending ofWar Machinewas able to showcase its message through Crowe’s acting and framing, giving the film a solid ending despite its lack of positive reception with audiences.War Machinereceived a 48% onRotten Tomatoesfrom critics, though one agreed-upon point in the film’s favor is the acting. Similar tomost of Russell Crowe’s movies, his performance adds to that strength despite its brevity, allowing the film to convey its final message with efficiency. Crowe’s stiff marching, his entourage, and his snarl create the image of the continued chaos that would follow McMahon’s departure.
In those 15 seconds, that final idea was showcased through Crowe’s strong approach to characterization, giving the narrative some closure while also demonstrating that cyclical issue.
Michod wanted to truly convey how the chaotic events of the film would simply keep going without its protagonist, with Crowe’s character acting as yet another general who was tasked to fix an issue only to create new ones. In those 15 seconds, that final idea was showcased through Crowe’s strong approach to characterization, giving the narrative some closure while also demonstrating that cyclical issue. ThoughWar Machine’s reception was lacking, the final scene does highlight the strength of the actors attached to the project, even for only one scene.
War Machine
Cast
War Machine: Released in 2017, War Machine follows a rock star general determined to achieve victory in the complex war in Afghanistan. Inspired by the true story of General Stanley McChrystal, the film offers a glimpse into the intricate mechanisms of modern military operations.
