Boys will be boys, the movie. But seriously this is a fantastic look into a young boy's life. It feels very real. It can go from cheerful to depressing real quick, just like real life. The score is really good here. The cinematography is great. Jean-Pierre Léaud gives a great performance.

Many reviews around talks about this film as a criticism to the French educative system. I could not really see that, as I found the role of the educators here (especially the teacher and the police) correct and normal, as they were trying to savage a boy that otherwise could have ended up on the street due to his behavior. But the portrait of the situation is very well done, at the right length.

Often cited in many film critic's Top 10 lists, it has taken me around 400 years or so to get around to watching this movie. Is it a classic? Well... I wasn't blown away by the story, but that's because it's tale of parental disattachment and juvenile delinquency are common themes in many movies today. Back in 1959, however, the themes were probably fresh and daring, so it can be excused on that point. What makes the film truly great is the direction from Truffaut, who captures both location and character eloquently, and the performance from the young lead, which is brilliant, raw and real. Is it on my Top 10 list? No, but i'm glad I finally got around to watching this film, and I will likely return to it again in the future.

lovely background music.the camera settings very watchable.great acting by Jean.

Such a visionary movie, and also packs a wallop. This feels like a giant step forward--there's a youthful, urgent zest in every shot that propels the film forward and commands attention. I adore Leaud's performance, and his jacket is one of my favorite movie wardrobe choices ever. The location shooting is to die for, and there are so many more things to be said--it's a film I loved returning to.