France10 Essential French FilmsStop 2 of 10

The 400 Blows

Name: The 400 Blows
Genre: Drama
Released: 1959
Duration: 99 min

Les Quatre Cents Coups

1959 · 99 min · Drama

Neglected by his parents and misunderstood at school, a spirited Parisian boy drifts into petty trouble and small rebellions, searching for freedom in an uncaring adult world. François Truffaut's tender, semi-autobiographical debut and a cornerstone of the French New Wave.

Why it’s here

Francois Truffaut's French New Wave landmark and one of the defining French films.

Runtime: 99 min
Genre: Drama
Mood: thoughtful
Entry: easy entry
Best for: first visit · shorter watch · film history

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Part of 10 Essential French Films

This film is stop 2 of 10 in the hand-ranked native-cinema route through France. See the complete ranking or read the selection methodology.

Watching this film stamps France in the 196 country film challenge.