Movie #92 "400 Blows" I was anxious to see this because I've read/heard so much about it, being a classic in French cinema (the first of the French New Wave, etc.), so I have to say I was a bit disappointed (the reason I gave this (100% rottentomatoes) classic only 4 stars). The black and white photography is beautiful (Kazan/Scorcese et al. studied this one, for sure), the use of sparse dialogue is effective (so much is done so subtlely), the story is so natural, and the realism comes across so very well. I guess I just expected more ------I was never really pulled in to care about this kid; I guess I expected better acting from the lead (he's no Dakota Fanning), perhaps more reaction on his part --- he came across very cold. He'd get slapped or get chastised over and over again by themilitant teacher, and he got across the rebelliousness, but not really the vulnerability of a kid. ( but the director/writer Truffaut did, esp. if you take a look at the signature picture through the fence of the kid when he's hit the low spot in his life). Don't get me wrong; it was a wonderful film and I recommend it. And I'm glad I've finally seen Truffaut's classic. If anyone has seen this and wants to write to me about why you think it's titled this, please do. I'm anxious to dialogue on that topic or any other comments on this one.
Average rating: 4.008
I gave it 4 stars
The 400 Blows
Les quatre cents coups
(1959) NR
After young Antoine (Jean-Pierre Léaud) runs away, life on the streets of Paris leads to nothing but trouble and guilt in this gritty feature film debut from legendary director François Truffaut. Though he turns to petty crime to survive, Antoine's remorse often leads him to try to return things he's stolen -- with disastrous results. The film was nominated for a Best Screenplay Oscar and the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
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