Wasteland Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Wasteland
| Movie | Wasteland |
| Release Year | 1960 |
| Director | Marcel Carné |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 100 minutes (1h 40m) |
| Language | FR |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Wasteland (1960) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Wasteland are led by Danièle Gaubert . The supporting cast, including Roland Lesaffre and Maurice Caffarelli , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Wasteland does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Wasteland has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Wasteland
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1960, Wasteland is a Drama film directed by Marcel Carné, written by Henri-François Rey. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Danièle Gaubert as Dan.
Ending Explained: Wasteland
Wasteland Ending Explained: On the outskirts of Parisian council housing estates lies a vast wasteland that still retains its mysteries in this day and age, and serves as a refuge for people who, in their spare time, escape or are often ejected from their overcrowded dwellings. Directed by Marcel Carné, this 1960 drama film stars Danièle Gaubert (Dan), alongside Roland Lesaffre as Big Chief, Maurice Caffarelli as Lucky, Constantin Andrieu as Marcel. With a 6.1/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Wasteland?
On the outskirts of Parisian council housing estates lies a vast wasteland that still retains its mysteries in this day and age, and serves as a refuge for people who, in their spare time, escape or are often ejected from their overcrowded dwellings. They form small, rather harmless bands, share their first secrets, build up their "treasures" and submit to strict rituals. The sanctity of their rebellions is underscored by initiation through blindfolded jumping and a blood test. An impossible love story is born between two members of the same clan, Dan, a beautiful, tomboyish girl, and Lucky, a sweet but feisty boy.
Marcel Carné's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Danièle Gaubert (Dan)'s journey. They form small, rather harmless bands, share their first secrets, build up their "treasures" and submit to strict rituals.
How Does Danièle Gaubert (Dan)'s Story End?
- Danièle Gaubert: Danièle Gaubert's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Roland Lesaffre (Big Chief): Roland Lesaffre's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Maurice Caffarelli (Lucky): Maurice Caffarelli's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Wasteland Mean?
Wasteland's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Danièle Gaubert may feel rushed. Marcel Carné's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Wasteland Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Wasteland Based on a True Story?
No, Wasteland is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Marcel Carné and starring Danièle Gaubert may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Wasteland?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Danièle Gaubert or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Where to Watch Wasteland Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with AdsWasteland Parents Guide & Age Rating
1960 AdvisoryWondering about Wasteland age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Wasteland (1960) is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Directed by Marcel Carné, the film runs for 100 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.1/10, and global performance metrics, Wasteland is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1960 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wasteland worth watching?
Wasteland is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.1/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Wasteland parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Wasteland identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Wasteland (1960)?
The runtime of Wasteland (1960) is 100 minutes (approximately 1h 40m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
