SofiaTalksFilm

    400 Blows, in my opinion, is one of the greatest childhood coming-of-age films I have ever seen. It accurately portrays the disconnect between children and adults, and the desperate need to be seen and understood. It also shows a trouble maker that does not necessarily want to cause trouble. The use of realism in this film is what makes it so meaningful. Either you grew up knowing a child like the main character, Antoine, or you were that child. The story is realistic and understandable. You empathize with this boy that just wants to be seen and understood by the adults around him.       The adult influences around him, from his parents to the police officer, treat him as though he is unwanted in this adult world. At the end of the film, it is even revealed that his mother did not want him and his mother does not hide the fact that Antoine is nothing more than a nuisance that prevents her from living her life. His step-father seems like he tries, but in...

                                     In order to separate this film from other boxing films, like Rocky (1976), he shows the deeper motivations and flaws of human character. The main character of this film is incredibly flawed, abusive, and difficult to sympathize with, but Scorsese is able to flesh out this character and show that film does not necessarily need to show a hero or redeemed individual. This story is not about boxing, it is about a self-destructive and angry man that can not focus on anything other than his jealousy and his sexual insecurities. In many ways, it makes this film difficult to watch, but it also makes the film much more intriguing than other films at the time.      Learning of Martin Scorsese's own struggles with addiction and depression prior to the creation of this film puts everything in a different perspective. It is easy to sa...