A Legitimate Defense Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of A Legitimate Defense?

Two friends from the last war, Pierrot, a bar owner, and Gustave, a police inspector, are in contact with a notorious gang of racketeers in Montmartre. Tired of putting up with Albert the King's demands, Pierrot kills the gangster during a bar brawl. His first instinct is to flee, but on Gustave's advice, he turns himself in to the law. All things considered, he'll be safer in prison than exposed to the reprisals of the "underworld". Pierrot goes to trial. He was acquitted as having acted in self-defense. But his release leaves him open to the vengeance of Bob, one of Albert's accomplices. Pierrot narrowly escapes an ambush, but is finally able to rid himself of the threat hanging over him, thanks to the friendship of Inspector Gustave, and finally reunites with the companion of his life, Dora, who has never stopped trembling for him.

André Berthomieu's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Bernard Blier (Gustave Martinet)'s journey. Tired of putting up with Albert the King's demands, Pierrot kills the gangster during a bar brawl.

How Does Bernard Blier (Gustave Martinet)'s Story End?

• Bernard Blier: Bernard Blier's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Philippe Nicaud (Pierre 'Pierrot' Lambert): Philippe Nicaud's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Maria Mauban (Dora): Maria Mauban's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of A Legitimate Defense Mean?

The ending of A Legitimate Defense brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Bernard Blier's story may not satisfy all audiences.