War of the Buttons (1962): Cast, Plot & Rating

Name: War of the Buttons
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family
Released: 1962
Duration: 90 min
Cast: Jacques Dufilho, Yvette Etiévant, Michel Galabru, Michèle Méritz, Jean Richard

What War of the Buttons Is About

Children from two neighbouring French villages carry on a private war in which prisoners have their buttons cut off, so they must walk home holding up their trousers. Yves Robert takes the games seriously rather than making them charming: hierarchy, betrayal and reprisal all operate here as a scaled down rehearsal of the adult world. The child actors are not overly sweet and are sometimes genuinely harsh. The comedy comes from concrete inventions, such as the decision to fight naked in order to have no buttons left to lose. The underlying point is plain: nobody teaches them to fight.

How did this film move you?

Trailer

▶

Frequently Asked Questions

What is War of the Buttons about?

Children from two neighbouring French villages carry on a private war in which prisoners have their buttons cut off, so they must walk home holding up their trousers. Yves Robert takes the games seriously rather than making them charming: hierarchy, betrayal and reprisal all operate here as a scaled down rehearsal of the adult world.

Where can I watch War of the Buttons?

War of the Buttons isn't currently listed on major digital platforms. Availability can change over time. Check the "Where to Watch" section for the latest.

How long is War of the Buttons?

War of the Buttons runs for 90 minutes (1h 30m).

When did War of the Buttons come out?

War of the Buttons was released in 1962.

Who directed War of the Buttons?

War of the Buttons was directed by Yves Robert.

Who stars in War of the Buttons?

War of the Buttons stars Jacques Dufilho, Yvette Etiévant, Michel Galabru, Michèle Méritz.

What is War of the Buttons's rating?

War of the Buttons holds 7.4/10 on IMDb and 7.2/10 on TMDB. Its Pulse Score is 73 out of 100.