A cautionary tale that rings as true today as it must have upon its release 50 years ago. "400 Blows" does well to encapsulate the breadth of juvenile delinquency. Adults are maligned as tyrannical agents of governance, saddling youths with unfair expectations. Jean-Pierre Léaud shines in the lead role, sinking further and further within himself as one institution after another lets him down. The filmmaking is evocative and lively, portraying both vast urban landscapes and dysfunctional, cramped home environs with equal aplomb.
Written 6/26/09
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