The film is structured as a series of flashbacks, with an aging J. Edgar Hoover dictating his memoirs to a series of young agents. As the narrative unfolds, it covers Hoover’s long and controversial tenure as the head of the FBI, his relationships with key figures like Clyde Tolson (Armie Hammer), and the political machinations that shaped his legacy.
In the concluding scenes, the film depicts Hoover in his later years. He continues to exert control over the FBI and maintain his secretive and manipulative approach. However, as he ages, Hoover’s health declines, and he becomes increasingly isolated.
The movie suggests that Hoover’s obsessive focus on surveillance, maintaining files on political figures, and his personal vendettas might have been fueled by his own insecurities and fears. It delves into his complex relationship with Tolson, hinting at a possible romantic connection, but the true nature of their relationship remains ambiguous.
In the final moments, an elderly Hoover reflects on his life, expressing regret for the mistakes he made and the impact of his actions on the nation. The film ends with Hoover’s death in 1972.
“J. Edgar” received mixed reviews, with praise for DiCaprio’s performance but criticism for the film’s narrative structure and historical accuracy. The movie attempts to explore the complexities of Hoover’s character, his impact on American law enforcement, and the personal toll of his choices.
The ending of “J. Edgar” leaves viewers with a portrayal of Hoover as a deeply flawed and enigmatic figure, whose legacy is as much defined by his achievements in law enforcement as by the controversies and secrets that surrounded him throughout his career.