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'Best show since Band of Brothers': Masters of the Air's 'outstanding' finale episode leaves fans teary-eyed

Based on Donald L Miller's 2007 book of the same name, 'Masters of the Air' has left fans emotional

LONDON, ENGLAND: Apple TV+ released the final episode of 'Masters of the Air' on Friday, March 15, bringing closure to various storylines and offering a satisfying ending to fans of the war drama mini-series.

Based on Donald L Miller's 2007 book of the same name, 'Masters of the Air' focuses on the 100th Bomb Group unit and their challenging bombing missions over Germany during World War II.

In 'Masters of the Air', Austin Butler portrays Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven, while Callum Turner plays Major John 'Bucky' Egan. Anthony Boyle takes on the role of Major Harry Crosby, and Nate Mann stars as Major Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal.

The plot dives into the historical events of the war, particularly the experiences of the US Air Force in combating Nazi Germany in the skies. Fans have begun sharing their reactions to the series on X and they seem to love it! 

What happens in the 'Masters of the Air' finale?

In 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9, Major Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal completes his missions but faces a setback when he sees a concentration camp in Poland. He returns to Thorpe Abbott where Major Harry Crosby welcomes him. 

The prisoners of war at Stalag Luft III are moved to Stalag XIII, and Major John 'Bucky' Egan plans an escape. Despite some setbacks, they manage to take control of the camp, and Bucky replaces the Nazi flag with the American flag.

As the war ends, everyone returns home, including Buck and Bucky, who reunite at Thorpe Abbott and travel back to America together.

'Masters of the Air' finale episode leaves viewers emotional 

One excited fan wrote, "The cinematography in the final episode of Masters Of The Air." Another fan said, "The final episode of Masters of the Air is an absolute masterpiece." A fan praised the show saying, "Masters of the Air…..wow! Final episode was pure brilliance. The best show I’ve watched since Band of Brothers in 2001."

"Just watched the final episode of Masters of the Air. Been sobbing for about an hour. Beautiful show. Would have been good to see the RAF and the Battle of Britain but obviously America won the war and all that," commented one viewer who was expecting a bit more from the series.

A fan with a similar opinion said, "Watched the Masters of the Air final episode. Some of the coolest scenes put to screen. Really enjoyed it. (Not spoiling what those were) Criticism: They used B-17 F models all throughout the series where they should have used G models probably in the last 3 episodes." 

An emotional fan said, "Just finished Masters of the Air. Wow! It’s been so good. Final episode very powerful indeed. I’m not crying whatsoever!" "I’ll just keep crying as the final episode ends. There is so much I want to say but…I have been profoundly moved by these men and their history, and I cannot wait to watch The Bloody Hundredth. Thank you to the real masters of the air. We are eternally and deeply grateful," wrote another fan, praising the series. 

'Masters of the Air' received much praise for its brilliant storytelling as one fan wrote, "Sitting down to watch the final episode of Masters of the Air tonight. I’ve found it an incredible series: moving, inspiring and a worthy nod to those men of the Mighty Eighth who took high into the Empty Blue day after day, so many never returning." While another said, "I know I have tweeted about this before - Masters of the Air on apple. Watched the final episode last night and season is concluded. I throughly enjoyed the realistic picturization of some of the shots and probably one of the best ww2 related - MUST watch IMO."

Commenting on the bravery of World War 2 soldiers, one user wrote, "Just watched the final episode of "masters of the air". Those bomber crews were so courageous. How did they keep getting in that plane after witnessing their friends and colleagues getting blown to pieces? Today's generation certainly couldn't do it." 

Disappointed that it was the last episode of the show, one fan wrote, "Let’s see if I can avoid all social media for rest of the day so I don’t spy any Masters of The Air Spoilers until I settle down to watch the final episode later. I’m gutted it’s the last episode. It’s been absolutely outstanding, I have loved every episode. Just brilliant."

The emotional response from fans to the finale of 'Masters of the Air' highlights the impact and resonance of the series.

As fans reflect on the journey of the characters and the conclusion of their experiences, it proves that stories can make people feel deeply and stay with them for a long time.

All episodes of 'Masters of the Air' are streaming now on Apple TV+