Director: Laurent Cantet, France
In French with English subtitles
The Class is based on François Bégaudeau’s semi-autobiographical novel of the same name chronicling his experience teaching literature to disadvantaged students in a Parisian inner-city school. As François and his fellow teachers prepare themselves for another year, they are determined to do their best to educate students despite cultural issues and low pay. While trying to create an educational atmosphere of honesty and mutual respect, François’ frankness often takes his students by surprise—but his enthusiasm is jeopardized by his students’ attitudes and willingness to question his methods.
Read a review of The Class on NPR.org
