Bastien, Bastienne Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Bastien, Bastienne.
Bastien, Bastienne Ending Explained: Catherine (Juliet Berto) is the temporary head of the family while her husband, whom she loathes, is away fighting in the war. Directed by Michel Andrieu, this 1979 drama film stars Juliet Berto (Catherine), alongside Anna Prucnal as Suzanne, Orane Demazis as Georgette, Béatrice Bruno as Marie. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Bastien, Bastienne?
Catherine (Juliet Berto) is the temporary head of the family while her husband, whom she loathes, is away fighting in the war. Her widowed sister-in-law Suzanne (Anna Prucnal) lives with her, and after awhile it becomes apparent that Catherine loathes her as well. The children in the house are all boys -- Catherine has two sons, twelve and thirteen, and Suzanne also has a twelve-year old. While the relationship between Suzanne and Catherine is coming to a head, Catherine is having an affair with an army officer, and the boys in the family are planning a musical performance for everyone. The crescendo may be barely audible at the beginning, but it builds up to a tragedy at the end.
Michel Andrieu's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Juliet Berto (Catherine)'s journey. Her widowed sister-in-law Suzanne (Anna Prucnal) lives with her, and after awhile it becomes apparent that Catherine loathes her as well.
How Does Juliet Berto (Catherine)'s Story End?
- Juliet Berto: Juliet Berto's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Anna Prucnal (Suzanne): Anna Prucnal's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Orane Demazis (Georgette): Orane Demazis's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Bastien, Bastienne Mean?
Bastien, Bastienne's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Juliet Berto may feel rushed. Michel Andrieu's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.