Small Change (film)

Small Change (French: L'Argent de poche, literally "Pocket Money") is a 1976 French coming-of-age comedy-drama film directed by François Truffaut. Set in Thiers, France, the film explores childhood through a series of vignettes, focusing on the everyday lives and adventures of a group of young children.

The film is notable for its naturalistic portrayal of children, achieved through Truffaut's use of non-professional actors and his commitment to capturing their authentic behavior. Small Change avoids a central plot, instead offering a mosaic of interconnected stories showcasing the innocence, resilience, and vulnerabilities of children.

Key themes explored in Small Change include the challenges of poverty, the importance of friendship and community, and the difficulties children face in navigating the adult world. One memorable sequence depicts a child falling from a high window but surviving, highlighting both the fragility and surprising resilience of youth.

Released to critical acclaim, Small Change won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1977. The film is considered a classic of children's cinema and a testament to Truffaut's humanistic approach to filmmaking. Its depiction of childhood has been highly influential, inspiring filmmakers worldwide.