Starring
Francois Begaudeau, Angelica Sancio, Eva Paradiso

This 2009 Best Foreign Language Oscar nominee stars novelist François Begaudeau as a teacher preparing for a new year at a high school in a tough Parisienne neighbourhood.

Armed with the best intentions, François and his fellow teachers brace themselves to not let discouragement stop them from trying to give the best education to their students. Cultures and attitudes often clash in the classroom, a microcosm of contemporary France.

As amusing and inspiring as the teenaged students can be, their difficult behaviour can still jeopardise any teacher's enthusiasm for the low-paying job. François insists on an atmosphere of respect and diligence. Neither stuffy nor severe, his classroom ethics are nevertheless put to the test when his students begin to challenge his methods.

Directed by
Laurent Cantet