Watching "The Bicycle Thieves" earlier this year, the same expectation was made through this French classic as both had child artists in its center and both explored Europe in the post War era. "The 400 Blows" is on disturbed childhood which resorts to petty crimes following the indifference from the parents. It delves into child psychology and remains engaging for most of the time. It is highly structured in its narration with a nice flow maintained aside a beautiful portrayal of Paris streets it captures.
But overall it has its disappointments which gives reservations to place it in the position of "The Bicycle Thieves." First of all the film ends inconclusive. It raises some issues on childhood problems concerning the schools and families, which isn't resolved. The problems raised feel single dimensional and on its way fails to make a compelling watch though technically it feels flawless along few endearing performances to admire.
Rating: 2 stars out of 4
But overall it has its disappointments which gives reservations to place it in the position of "The Bicycle Thieves." First of all the film ends inconclusive. It raises some issues on childhood problems concerning the schools and families, which isn't resolved. The problems raised feel single dimensional and on its way fails to make a compelling watch though technically it feels flawless along few endearing performances to admire.
Rating: 2 stars out of 4