#334. The 400 Blows (1959, Francois Truffaut)

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Have I Seen It Before?: Yes


Thoughts Before Viewing: This is one of my all time favorite films.  One of the first to really get me into foreign films.  Now that I've been on a French-New Wave kick, I've been craving to revisit the one that started the movement (along with Jean-Luc Godard's Breathless (1960).




Running Time: 99 minutes
Directed By: Francois Truffaut
Written By: Francois Truffaut
Primary Cast: Jean-Pierre Leaud, Albert Remy, Claire Maurier


Summary: A young boy, who is left without attention, delves into a life of petty crime.


My Thoughts: Just an all time classic.  It's always been a personal favorite of mine.  I just can't get enough of its uniquely minimalist vibe.  The entire film just feels very personable (which makes sense, considering it's largely autobiographical for Truffaut).  There is a real unique beauty to be found here.  I simply cannot get enough of its soundtrack. 


It really captures the psychological state of being a troubled misunderstood child.  He always tries to fight but the adults will always hold him down.  It's a wonderfully moving and honest film.


Does It Belong In The Book?: Yes absolutely.  Primary blueprint for the French New Wave movement and one of the all time great autobiographical portrayals. 


My Rating: 10/10

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