The Bamboo Stroke Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of The Bamboo Stroke?

Albert is the irremovable waiter in a small bistro that has just been sold by his former bosses, Angèle and Léon. Angèle, having forgotten the ten million paid by the notary in a cab, prefers to feign madness rather than incur her husband's wrath; but Léon, in turn, eventually learns what has happened to his money, goes mad and kicks out the honest cab driver who comes to return the lost sum. A phone call from the police station later informs Albert that the money is at his boss's disposal; but as the boss is now in an institution, Albert borrows his identity papers and goes to collect the money - which he pays in full to the pari-mutuel betting house. After a series of shocks and counter-shocks, Angèle and Léon regain their senses enough to watch for the outcome of the race, and share with Albert the final winnings, which are very substantial.

Jean Boyer's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Jean Richard (Albert)'s journey. Angèle, having forgotten the ten million paid by the notary in a cab, prefers to feign madness rather than incur her husband's wrath; but Léon, in turn, eventually learns what has happened to his money, goes mad and kicks out the honest cab driver who comes to return the lost sum.

How Does Jean Richard (Albert)'s Story End?

• Jean Richard: Jean Richard's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• François Périer (Léon Brissac): François Périer's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Micheline Presle (Angèle Brissac): Micheline Presle's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Bamboo Stroke Mean?

The ending of The Bamboo Stroke brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Jean Richard's story may not satisfy all audiences.