France. 2008. 130 minutes.
Winner of the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Director: Laurent Cantet
Starring: Francois Bégaudeau, Agama Malembo-Emene, Angelica Sancio

In English.

Teacher and novelist François Bégaudeau plays a version of himself in this Oscar-nominated film about teachers and students in a racially mixed school in a tough Parisian neighborhood. Carefully depicting both sides of the equation, the film takes us through the same old challenges in a new school year, with the teachers attempting to do what’s best for their teens and the teens constantly questioning their intentions. Eventually, the frequent unruliness leads Bégaudeau to take action that he soon regrets. Riveting, funny, moving and exceptionally authentic.

All movie screenings are private, noncommercial events restricted to FCCJ members and their guests.

Karen Severns, Edwin Karmiol. Movie Committee.