Review of Stolen Kisses (1968) by Kevin D — 03 Sep 2012

Perhaps Truffaut's best film. This movie is a prime example of why I watch films in the first place. It is filled with so much joy, heart, and whimsy. Watching this movie gave me a general sense of hope and was able to give me a sense of transcendent bliss that is tough to explain. I've noticed that many of Truffaut's films have given me similar feelings (Bed and Board and Pocket Money as well). These films feel so effortlessly made yet they turned out to be masterpieces. I don't know what exactly it is that gives these films their magic. Truffaut was one of a kind and watching this film gives you a sense of what type of person he is. After all, the Antoine Doinel character is loosely based around him.

Truffaut of course started making films during the French New Wave influx, a movement that saw aggressive films that challenged what was expected from films as they were known. However it seemed that after a few years Truffaut moved away from this mentality and began to make more intimate films that suited his persona. Just from watching some of his more intimate films, it seems like he was a genuine and great person. His body of work will allow him to live on. Audiences can continue to enjoy the art of Truffaut, a kind storyteller and skilled filmmaker.

Stolen Kisses is tons of fun and it's a joy to follow Antoine Doinel's romantic and workplace escapades. It's hard not to love this one of a kind charmer.