Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man Ending Explained
“Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man” is a cult classic action film released in 1991, starring Mickey Rourke as Harley Davidson and Don Johnson as the Marlboro Man. The movie follows two bikers who team up to save their favorite bar from being taken over by a corrupt bank. While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it has gained a dedicated following over the years.
The ending of “Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man” is often a topic of discussion among fans, as it leaves some questions unanswered and provides room for interpretation. In order to understand the ending, let’s take a closer look at what happens.
*Spoiler Alert*
In the final scenes of the movie, Harley and the Marlboro Man successfully retrieve a large sum of money that was stolen from them earlier in the film. They plan to use this money to save their bar from foreclosure. However, they soon discover that the money they have recovered is counterfeit.
Realizing that they have been double-crossed by their former friend and bar owner, Jack Daniels (played by Tom Sizemore), Harley and the Marlboro Man decide to take matters into their own hands. They confront Jack Daniels at his mansion, where a shootout ensues.
During the intense gunfight, both Harley and the Marlboro Man sustain injuries. In a heroic act, Harley sacrifices himself by detonating an explosive device attached to his motorcycle, destroying Jack Daniels’ mansion in the process.
The movie ends with Marlboro Man surviving but deeply affected by Harley’s sacrifice. He rides off into the sunset on Harley’s motorcycle, symbolizing his friend’s legacy living on through him.
So, what does this ending mean?
One interpretation is that “Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man” explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice. Throughout the film, Harley and the Marlboro Man demonstrate unwavering loyalty to each other and their bar. Harley’s final sacrifice exemplifies his commitment to protecting what is important to him, even if it means losing his own life.
The ending also suggests that the legacy of Harley Davidson lives on through the Marlboro Man. By riding off on Harley’s motorcycle, Marlboro Man carries the spirit of his fallen friend with him. It symbolizes the passing of the torch and the continuation of their shared values.
Additionally, the ending could be seen as a commentary on the consequences of greed and corruption. Jack Daniels’ betrayal and involvement in counterfeiting money ultimately lead to his downfall, while Harley and Marlboro Man’s integrity prevails.
In conclusion, the ending of “Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man” is a bittersweet conclusion to an action-packed film. It leaves room for interpretation and offers a poignant message about loyalty, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of friendship. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that this cult classic has left its mark on cinema history.
