‘Masters of the Air’ Finale Episode Takeaway: Prisoners of war stage dramatic escape

In 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9, the prisoners of war successfully execute their escape plan
PUBLISHED MAR 15, 2024
Callum Turner and Austin Butler in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (@AppleTV+)
Callum Turner and Austin Butler in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (@AppleTV+)

Contains spoilers for ‘Masters of the Air’ Episode 9

LONDON, ENGLAND: Apple TV+ has officially released ‘Masters of the Air’ Episode 9, resolving various storylines and providing a satisfying conclusion for viewers of the war drama mini-series.

In ‘Masters of the Air’ Episode 9, the focus on the prisoners of Stalag Luft III and Major Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal (Nate Mann) adds depth to the narrative.

In the previous chapter, the prisoners of war at Stalag Luft III strategize a daring escape plan, setting the stage for the dramatic events that unfold in the finale of the series.

This episode focuses on the consequences faced by the prisoners involved in the escape plan.

What happens to prisoners of war in ‘Masters of the Air’?

Branden Cook, Ncuti Gatwa, and Josiah Cross in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (AppleTV+)
Branden Cook, Ncuti Gatwa, and Josiah Cross in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (@AppleTV+)

In ‘Masters of the Air’ Episode 9, the story opens with Major Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal, the star of the 100th Bomb Group, completing one successful mission after another.

Meanwhile, a parallel storyline unfolds involving the prisoners of war at Stalag Luft III. They are being moved from Stalag Luft III to Stalag XIII, a camp situated deep within Germany.

By relocating them to a more secure location in the heart of Germany, the German authorities want to use them as leverage against their enemies.

As the episode progresses further, the Germans move the prisoners of war once again. Soon after, the Germans make the POWs march through Bavaria, a state in the southeast of Germany, during the night.

Prisoners of war execute escape plan in ‘Masters of the Air’

Austin Butler in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (AppleTV+)
Austin Butler in a still from 'Masters of the Air' Episode 9 (@AppleTV+)

As the episode progresses further, Major John 'Bucky' Egan (Callum Turner) tries to convince Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven (Austin Butler) that this is their last and final opportunity to execute the escape plan.

Realizing the importance of the nearby river, Buck makes a pivotal decision to seize the opportunity and make a run for it. He ensures that Lt. George Niethammer (Josh Dylan) and Major Bill Veal (James Frecheville) get away first, prioritizing their escape before his own.

Subsequently, Bucky tells Buck to go ahead while he keeps an eye on the German guards, who are preoccupied with managing the chaos caused by other prisoners of war.

However, as Bucky attempts to follow them, he is noticed by a German guard and fails to make a great escape. The Colonel intervenes, issuing a direct order to the German general not to harm Bucky.

Following the map, Buck, George, and Bill cautiously navigate the wild terrain of Germany in search of safety. Despite various challenges, the trio remains determined to reach their destination.

Unfortunately, their journey takes a tragic turn when they encounter a group of German soldiers. In a devastating moment, one of the soldiers stabs George from behind, killing him instantly.

Bill and Buck manage to evade the remaining German soldiers. They soon run into a group of American soldiers, marking the successful culmination of their great escape.

Buck receives a warm welcome upon his return to Thorpe Abbotts, particularly from Rosie and Lt. Harry Crosby (Anthony Boyle), who greet him with admiration and gratitude for his bravery. As the episode progresses, the P-51 Mustangs begin the bombing raid, and the prisoners of war seize control of the camp.

Bucky takes down the Nazi flag from its mast and hands it to his fellow men, urging them to tear it down. Meanwhile, he raises the American flag at the German concentration camp. Later on, he reunites with Buck at Thorpe Abbott.

‘Masters of the Air’ Episodes 1-9 are now streaming on Apple TV+

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