“Monsieur Lazhar” is a 2011 Canadian drama film directed by Philippe Falardeau. The movie is based on the play “Bashir Lazhar” by Evelyne de la Cheneliere and stars Mohamed Fellag as the titular character, Bachir Lazhar.
The film tells the story of Bachir Lazhar, an Algerian immigrant who is hired as a substitute teacher in a Montreal elementary school after a tragedy strikes the school. The movie explores themes of grief, loss, and the challenges of adapting to a new country and culture.
As Monsieur Lazhar teaches his class of young students, he also grapples with his own painful past and the emotional wounds that he carries with him. The movie is a poignant and heartfelt exploration of the power of education and the human capacity for resilience and healing.
“Monsieur Lazhar” was a critical and commercial success, winning numerous awards and accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. The film is widely regarded as a touching and deeply moving work of cinema that offers a unique and nuanced perspective on the immigrant experience.
Duration: 95 min.