thorenj

This was fairly light film, but very funny and entertaining, with excellent acting by the main actors/actresses. I particularly like the sharp riposte that Carlole Bouquet serves up to Michel Blanc on regular occasions as she shepherds him through his problems. The banter between those two was so well written and spoken that I had to go back and listen to it many times.

This is a film concerning a fairly mundane topic - problems in a small-town school. Through masterful cinematography and storytelling, Bertrand Travernier constructs a fascinating and heartwarming film. The acting is excellent throughout despite some of the characters being played by people who are not professional actors. The leading roles are full multi-dimensional and fully engaging, The non-professionals are honest and convincing.

The dvd commentary by Travernier is also worth a watch, as he points out many significant background details, and explains the interactions between the real town and townspeople, and the actors and movie production.

This is not an american action film, but never leaves the viewer bored, and does not play on cheap emotions.