“Last Flag Flying,” the latest from writer/director Richard Linklater, feels more like an intimate play than a film. 

But that intimacy ultimately pays off for a film anchored by its three leads – Steve Carrell, Bryan Cranston, and Laurence Fishburne. “Last Flag Flying” may feel like it is meandering at times – especially in the middle third – but once it gets to its destination it leaves you with a powerful final punch.

“Flying” takes place in 2003 with recently widowed Larry (Carrell) grieving even more after his son is killed during the war in Iraq.

Larry, who served in Vietnam in the Navy, seeks out a pair of ex-Marines he served with Sal (Cranston) and Richard (Fishburne) to go with him to Arlington to bury his son.

They reluctantly agree and head with Larry to Arlington, but the plans change when Larry discovers the truth behind his son’s death and opts to bring him back home to be buried next to Larry’s late wife.

“Flying” quickly emerges into a road trip movie, with the three leads revisiting past experiences (Larry served time in military prison over an incident that Sal and Richard still feel responsible for), while coming to terms with where they have wound up in their own lives.

Linklater, who co-wrote the script, is the perfect person to allow this plot to breathe – giving his talented cast a chance to just do what they do best.

Cranston gets the showiest role of the three, and shines in that spotlight, but Carrell’s quietness is also a strength – as is Fishburne’s Richard, now a man of faith who is trying to put his past behind him. 

At times it feels like “Flying” is spinning its wheels, with a few contrived incidents that prolong the trio’s trip, but then the film gets to the final scene – which strikes the perfect emotional chord that will leave even the coldest of hearts a bit choked up.

That ending helps get “Last Flag Flying” over the finish line – leaving a lasting impact on a film that for a while feels like it doesn’t know where it is going.

Starring: Steve Carrell, Bryan Cranston

Directed by: Richard Linklater

Rating: R for language

Playing at: Regal Opry Mills Stadium 20 in Nashville

Grade: B