Literary Analysis Of The Film 'The 400 Blows'

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Essay #1 Initially it appears as though there is no plot in the film, The 400 Blows, because it chronicles the misadventures and mishaps of a young boy, however the true plot of the story lies in his struggle and attempt to be understood by his parents and society. Throughout the film, the viewers follow Antoine as he commits mischievous acts seemingly without reason. In various scenes Antoine commits acts that are deemed inappropriate and deplorable, however even as he is condemned for his actions, he is silenced and denied the opportunity to explain himself. Because society labels him as a menace and nuisance, he attempts to find ways in which he is able to express his own thoughts and feelings in order to be understood by those who reject …show more content…

Though it is not revealed until close to the end of the film, it is noticeable that Antoine feels isolated from his parents, in particular his mother. There is tension in Antoine’s relationship with his mother. He cannot relate to her, and likewise she is unable to sympathize with and understand her son. After missing school, Antoine who is left without a note, suddenly tells his teacher that his mother has passed away at 0:33:38. As he attempts to create an excuse for his absence, he stutters before loudly proclaiming that his mother is dead. The suddenness of his reply demonstrates that the first thought that appeared in his mind was of his mother, and as such it is shown that his relationship with her is constantly on his mind. He “kills” her because he feels that she does not care about him. Though he is aware of his mother’s disdain for him, he still attempts to understand and become closer to her. His desire for maternal affection is seen in the scene when he enters his mother’s bedroom at 0:12:18. Immediately after entering her room, there is a melancholy song playing, which gives the scene a mournful and sad feeling. The camera is positioned behind Antoine, so the viewers are only able to see his face through the reflection of the mirrors on the vanity stand, as well as another mirror that is …show more content…

In his discussion with a psychiatrist many of Antoine’s mishaps and offences are revealed, including the fact that he stole money from his grandmother and visited a prostitute. Antione’s interest in women is explored in this scene. It is also revealed that Antione had been sent to live with a wet nurse and then his grandmother because his mother did not want him around. Through her actions and words, Antione was able to notice that his mother never really cared for him, leading to a rift to be formed between them. As he explains how he found out his mother wanted to abort him, he looks down, nervously moves his fingers, and speaks in a quieter tone demonstrating that the topic of his mother is one that causes him pain and sadness; this is a contrast to when he speaks indifferently about stealing his grandmother’s money. Antione explains that the reason he stole money from her is because she is “old” and “going to die soon.” Antione’s noticeable indifference towards his grandmother, and his need to steal from her regardless of her kindness demonstrates that for Antione she does not satisfy the role of the maternal figure he desires. For Antione, his grandmother cannot take the role of his mother because she is “old” and “going to die.” His grandmother’s advanced age is a threat because in the event of her death, he will

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