Monsieur Lazhar

Synopsis & Film Details

The Canadian drama that was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 2012 Academy Awards. The film tells the story of an Algerian immigrant substitute teacher who brings emotional stability to a Montreal middle school class that’s shaken by the tragic death of their well-liked teacher. While the class goes through a difficult healing process, no one in the school is aware of Mr. Lazhar’s painful former life back home; nor do they realize that he is at risk of deportation at any moment. Bridging the cultural and generational gap, Mr. Lazhar learns great sensitivity and humor to accompany his students beyond the silence and taboo of death. Written and directed by Philippe Falardeau, from a play by Evelyne de la Chenelière. In French and Arabic, with English subtitles.

Sponsored by: Alliance Francaise de Fresno