Last Flag Flying Cast

The film "Last Flag Flying" is a 2017 American drama directed by Richard Linklater, based on the 2005 novel of the same name by Darryl Ponicsan. The movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston, and Laurence Fishburne. The story revolves around three Vietnam War veterans who reunite to bury one of their sons, a young Marine killed in Iraq. In this article, we will delve into the cast of "Last Flag Flying" and explore their characters, backgrounds, and performances.

Main Cast

The main cast of “Last Flag Flying” includes:

• Steve Carell as Larry “Doc” Shepherd, a quiet and reserved veteran who has just lost his son in Iraq.
• Bryan Cranston as Sal Nealon, a charismatic and outspoken veteran who owns a bar and is struggling to come to terms with his past.
• Laurence Fishburne as Richard Mueller, a former Marine and a preacher who is now a devout Christian, trying to find redemption for his past mistakes.

These three actors bring to life the complexities and nuances of their characters, exploring themes of grief, guilt, and redemption in a powerful and emotional performance.

Supporting Cast

The supporting cast of “Last Flag Flying” includes:

• J. Quinton Johnson as Charlie Washington, a young Marine who is tasked with informing Larry of his son’s death.
• Richard Robichaux as Commander Willits, a naval officer who is responsible for preparing the funeral arrangements for Larry’s son.
• Yul Vazquez as Lieutenant Commander Willits’ colleague, who helps to facilitate the funeral procession.

These supporting characters add depth and context to the story, highlighting the bureaucratic and procedural aspects of military funerals and the emotional toll it takes on the families of the fallen.

Characters and Performances

The characters in “Last Flag Flying” are multidimensional and complex, with each actor bringing their own unique interpretation to their role. Steve Carell’s performance as Larry “Doc” Shepherd is particularly noteworthy, as he conveys the depth of his character’s grief and emotional pain. Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Sal Nealon is also impressive, as he brings a sense of charisma and humor to the film. Laurence Fishburne’s performance as Richard Mueller is equally compelling, as he explores the complexities of his character’s past and his struggles with faith.

Themes and Symbolism

The film “Last Flag Flying” explores several themes, including grief, guilt, and redemption. The title of the film itself is a reference to the flag that is presented to the families of fallen soldiers, symbolizing the sacrifice and service of the deceased. The characters’ journeys are also symbolic, as they navigate their own personal struggles and come to terms with their pasts. The film’s use of symbolism and themes adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a rich and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.