Boudu Saved from Drowning Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Boudu Saved from Drowning.
Boudu Saved from Drowning Ending Explained: Michel Simon gives one of the most memorable performances in screen history as Boudu, a Parisian tramp who takes a suicidal plunge into the Seine and is rescued by a well-to-do bookseller, Edouard Lestingois. Directed by Jean Renoir, this 1932 comedy film stars Michel Simon (Priape Boudu), alongside Marcelle Hainia as Emma Lestingois, Sévérine Lerczinska as Chloë Anne Marie, la Bonne, Jean Gehret as Vigour. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Boudu Saved from Drowning?
Michel Simon gives one of the most memorable performances in screen history as Boudu, a Parisian tramp who takes a suicidal plunge into the Seine and is rescued by a well-to-do bookseller, Edouard Lestingois. The Lestingois family decides to take in the irrepressible bum, and he shows his gratitude by shaking the household to its foundations. With Boudu Saved from Drowning, legendary director Jean Renoir takes advantage of a host of Parisian locations and the anarchic charms of his lead actor to create an effervescent satire of the bourgeoisie.
Jean Renoir's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Michel Simon (Priape Boudu)'s journey. The Lestingois family decides to take in the irrepressible bum, and he shows his gratitude by shaking the household to its foundations.
How Does Michel Simon (Priape Boudu)'s Story End?
- Michel Simon: Michel Simon's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Marcelle Hainia (Emma Lestingois): Marcelle Hainia's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Sévérine Lerczinska (Chloë Anne Marie, la Bonne): Sévérine Lerczinska's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Boudu Saved from Drowning Mean?
Boudu Saved from Drowning's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Michel Simon may feel rushed. Jean Renoir's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.