The 400 Blows

Main Plot

The 400 Blows follows the story of a young boy named Antoine Doinel, who struggles with a troubled home life and a lack of understanding from his parents. Feeling neglected and misunderstood, Antoine often finds himself in trouble at school and with authority figures. He seeks solace in petty theft and rebellious behavior, which only deepens his sense of isolation. As his misadventures escalate, Antoine's relationship with his parents deteriorates, leading to a series of conflicts that push him further away from home. Ultimately, Antoine's quest for freedom and belonging leads him to a juvenile detention center, where he grapples with the consequences of his actions. The film poignantly captures the challenges of adolescence and the search for identity amidst a backdrop of societal indifference.

Characters

• Jean-Pierre Léaud plays Antoine Doinel, a misunderstood adolescent navigating a troubled home life and school, ultimately leading to his rebellion and search for freedom.
• Albert Rémy plays Julien Doinel, the father of Antoine. His neglectful and indifferent attitude contributes to Antoine's feelings of alienation and rebellion.
• Claire Maurier plays Gilberte Doinel, the protagonist's mother, whose strained relationship with her son contributes to his feelings of neglect and rebellion.

Ending Explained

In the ending of The 400 Blows, the protagonist, Antoine Doinel, finds himself cornered by the oppressive environment of his home and school. After a series of rebellious acts, including running away from home and being caught stealing, Antoine is placed in a juvenile detention center. The film culminates with Antoine escaping from the institution, symbolizing his desire for freedom and autonomy. As he runs along the beach, the camera captures his expression of both joy and despair. The final moments are poignant; Antoine turns to face the camera, and his gaze reflects a mix of hope and uncertainty about his future. The film ends with a freeze-frame, leaving viewers with an ambiguous sense of resolution. This moment encapsulates the central theme of the film: the struggle for identity and the quest for personal freedom against societal constraints. The ending connects to the overall narrative by highlighting Antoine's relentless pursuit of happiness and the consequences of his actions. It underscores the cyclical nature of his struggles, suggesting that while he may have escaped physically, the societal pressures and expectations continue to loom over him, leaving his ultimate fate open to interpretation.