Boudu Saved from Drowning (1932): cast, story & where to watch
1932 · Film · ★ 7

Released in 1932, Boudu Saved from Drowning is a comedy film directed by Jean Renoir, running about 84 minutes.
What it’s about. 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.
Who’s in it. Boudu Saved from Drowning stars Michel Simon as Priape Boudu, Marcelle Hainia as Emma Lestingois, Sévérine Lerczinska as Chloë Anne Marie, la Bonne and Jean Gehret as Vigour, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 7.0/10, Boudu Saved from Drowning has been warmly received by audiences.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Criterion Channel. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Boudu Saved from Drowning page.
If you liked it. Fans of Boudu Saved from Drowning tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Boudu Saved from Drowning (1932)?
- In US, Boudu Saved from Drowning is available to stream on Criterion Channel. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Boudu Saved from Drowning worth watching?
- Boudu Saved from Drowning holds an audience score of 7.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy comedy. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in Boudu Saved from Drowning?
- Boudu Saved from Drowning stars Michel Simon, Marcelle Hainia, Sévérine Lerczinska, Jean Gehret and Max Dalban.
- When was Boudu Saved from Drowning released?
- Boudu Saved from Drowning was released in 1932, with a runtime of about 84 minutes.
