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Monsieur Lazhar

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Overview

Nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, Monsieur Lazhar tells the poignant story of a Montreal middle school class shaken by the death of their well-liked teacher. Bachir Lazhar (Fellag), a 55-year-old Algerian immigrant, offers the school his services as a substitute teacher and is quickly hired. As he helps the children heal, he also learns to accept his own painful past. This moving film features exquisite performances by Fellag and a stunning ensemble of child actors.

Reactions, Awards & Festivals

“In a class with the François Truffaut of "The 400 Blows"

Joe Morgenstern

Wall Street Journal

“A sharply intelligent, deeply sad, and not remotely sappy film about both teaching and collective grief.”

Dana Stevens

Slate

"3.5 Stars! Leaves you hopeful, and even exhilarated!"

Rene Rodriguez

Miami Herald

“Like a dedicated teacher, this is a film that stays with you.”

Kyle Smith

New York Post

Academy Award® Nominee 2012 – Best Foreign Language Film

Winner! Toronto International Film Festival 2011 - Best Canadian Feature Film

Winner! Locarno Film Festival 2011 – Prix Du Public Award

Winner! Locarno Film Festival 2011 – Variety Piazza Grande Award

Winner! Namur Film Festival 2011 – Special Jury Award *

Winner! Hamburg Film Festival 2011 – Art Cinema Award

Winner! Windsor International Film Festival 2011 - People's Choice Award

Sundance Film Festival 2012 – Official Selection

Cast & Crew
  • Bachir Lazhar : Mohamed Fellag
  • Alice : Sophie Nelisse
  • Simon : Emilien Neron
  • Marie-Frederique : Marie-Eve Beauregard
  • Victor : Vincent Millard
  • Abdelmalek : Seddik Benslimane
  • Claire : Brigette Poupart
  • Ms. Vaillancourt : Danielle Proulx
  • Director : Philippe Falardeau
  • Writer : Philippe Falardeau
  • Producers : Luc Dery, Kim McCraw
  • Music : Martin Leon
  • Cinematograher : Ronald Plante
  • Editor : Stephane Lafleur
  • Casting : Emanuelle Beauregard-Champagne
Technical Info
  • Production Year : 2011
  • Release Date : April 13, 2012
  • Countries of Production : Canada
  • Languages : French, English, Arabic
  • Running Time : 94 minutes
  • Screen Ratio : 2.35:1
  • Sound : Dolby Digital
  • Color : Color
  • Rating : PG-13 (For Mature Thematic Materials, A Disturbing Image, and Brief Language)
DVD/Blu-Ray Special Features

From Stage to Screen

Big Talk Interview with Philippe Falardeau

Alice and Simon Audition Tape

Bachir’s Story

Alice’s Report