The 355 ending explained: Here's how it sets the stage for a potential sequel

The 355 is a film in the action spy thriller genre that was released by Universal Pictures on January 7, 2022.

Simon Kinberg has directed the film, while the story is by Theresa Rebeck. The screenplay is written by both Rebeck and Simon Kinberg. Jessica Chastain, Kinberg, and Kelly Carmichael have served as the producers. Here's the official synopsis as per Letterboxd:

"A group of top female agents from American, British, Chinese, Columbian and Government agencies are drawn together to try and stop an organization from acquiring a deadly weapon to send the world into chaos."

Let's take a look at how the film ends and how the final scene sets up for a sequel.

How does The 355 end?

The 355 focuses on several female agents from different countries who come together to put an end to a terrorist outfit that is planning to start a third world war. The title of the film is a direct reference to a female spy's codename during the American Revolution.

Towards the end of the film, Clarke decides to punish Nick for a decoy equipment that he bought. Nick then goes on to capture Muller, Ahmed, and the family members of Graciela. Lin's father, as well as Ahmed and Muller, is killed by Nick. Lin gives up on the drive to save the family of Garciela.

However, Nick kidnaps Lin to check on the device. The rest of the women eventually manage to save Lin. Nick is then shot by them while the drive is destroyed.

The story then takes a two-month jump, and we see Nick appointed as a senior officer at the CIA. He gets this promotion for eliminating Clarke. At home, Mace and the team have been waiting for him. All of them managed to escape custody. Nick passes out from a drug mixed in his drink after being told he will spend the rest of his life in a foreign prison as punishment for his crimes. The women go their separate ways with a belief that they will reunite to fight the powerful.

The ending is quite upfront, and it might have a subtext of unity and the need to fight against corruption and powerful people.

The 355 sets up a potential sequel

A still from The 355 | Image via Universal Pictures

The ending of The 355 showcases Nick finding out the safe space of Sheng. The latter eventually hands over the drive. The story takes a leap of several months, and we see the woman lacing poison in a drink of Nick. Before parting ways, their presence gives a feeling that they will once again come together for another mission.

The ending doesn't overtly drop a hint for a sequel, but the doors are left open for several possibilities. There is also a chance that Mace and other members might start a fresh agency. If this is ruled out, we can expect the core team of five women to be the centre of the sequel.

What are your thoughts on the film's ending?