The 400 Blows 1959
"Angel faces hell-bent for violence."
François Truffaut's groundbreaking 1959 drama *The 400 Blows* immerses viewers in the turbulent adolescence of Antoine Doinel, a spirited Parisian boy navigating a world of indifference and rigid authority.
Director: François Truffaut
Cast
Jean-Pierre Léaud
Antoine Doinel
Claire Maurier
Gilberte Doinel
Albert Rémy
Julien Doinel
Georges Flamant
Mr. Bigey
Patrick Auffay
René
Robert Beauvais
Directeur de l'école
Yvonne Claudie
Mme Bigey
Pierre Repp
Professeur d'anglais
Guy Decomble
Professeur de français
Daniel Couturier
Betrand Mauricet
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The 400 Blows (1959) about?
*The 400 Blows* follows Antoine Doinel, a troubled Parisian boy whose chaotic home life and run-ins with authority push him toward rebellion. His escapades with friends lead to a life-altering mistake, forcing him to confront a justice system that offers no mercy. It's a poignant, semi-autobiographical portrait of adolescence on the edge.
Who directed The 400 Blows?
François Truffaut directed *The 400 Blows*. The film not only launched his career but also defined the French New Wave movement, blending personal storytelling with cinematic innovation.
Who stars in The 400 Blows?
Jean-Pierre Léaud leads the cast as Antoine Doinel, with Claire Maurier as his mother, Albert Rémy as his father, and Patrick Auffay as his loyal friend René.
Is The 400 Blows (1959) worth watching?
Absolutely—this 1959 classic is a cornerstone of world cinema, praised for its emotional depth and revolutionary style. While it lacks an IMDb rating, its influence and critical acclaim speak volumes, making it essential viewing for fans of drama and French New Wave films.
How long is The 400 Blows?
The 400 Blows runs for 99 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The 400 Blows (1959) — A French New Wave Masterpiece of Youth and Rebellion
François Truffaut's groundbreaking 1959 drama *The 400 Blows* immerses viewers in the turbulent adolescence of Antoine Doinel, a spirited Parisian boy navigating a world of indifference and rigid authority. With Jean-Pierre Léaud delivering a raw, unforgettable performance as the rebellious teen, this French New Wave classic captures the frustration and yearning of youth in a society that seems determined to crush it. The film's stark black-and-white cinematography and unflinching honesty about poverty, neglect, and systemic oppression create an atmosphere of both gritty realism and poetic melancholy.
The story follows Antoine as he skips school, clashes with his detached parents, and bonds with his mischievous friend René over small rebellions—until one impulsive act spirals into a deeper confrontation with the law. Truffaut's semi-autobiographical tale doesn't just critique the failures of adults; it celebrates the resilience of Antoine's spirit, making *The 400 Blows* a timeless meditation on freedom, identity, and the universal struggle to be understood.
