The General ending explained

What happens

Johnnie warns the Confederate army, burns the bridge under the pursuing Union train, and helps win the battle. He's made a lieutenant, finally earning his uniform. Annabelle kisses him, and he's still busy with his duties.

The last image

Johnnie, now in uniform, kisses Annabelle while still returning salutes to passing soldiers, so his duty and his love share one gesture.

What it says

The ending closes both of Johnnie's long-delayed goals, recognition and love, in one gesture. It pays off the film's idea of competence: he is honoured for what he has done, not what anyone assumed of him, and the comedy stays gentle.