Latest movie in International Film Series to be screened Jan. 6 at Laconia Library

LACONIA — The Laconia Human Relations Committee in cooperation with the Laconia Public Library offers The Class, Monday, January 5 at 6:10 pm. This is another in the International Film Series shown monthly from September through June at the Laconia Public Library.

The Class is a 2008 semi-autobiographical account of a teacher's experience in a Paris middle-school, multicultural classroom. Francois Begaueau first wrote the book about his struggles as a teacher and then played himself as Francois Marin, the teacher.

François is a tough but fair teacher working in one of France's toughest schools, and his honest demeanor in the classroom has made him a great success with students. But this year things are different, because when the students begin to challenge his methods François will find his classroom ethics put to the ultimate test.

The film covers an academic year, beginning with teachers gathering for the autumn term, introducing themselves to each other and being welcomed by the principal, an unsmiling figure. The camera never leaves the school. The film is set in the staff room, the playground, the dining room, the principal's office, a conference room, and the classroom where François teaches French to a mixed group of 13- and 14-year-olds.

The film concentrates on Marin as he tries to keep order in the class, mediating between conflicting ethnic groups, quieting the rowdy, bringing out the reticent, and trying to educate them. The class is difficult, and in some ways the brightest are the most disruptive. Marin tries to get insight into the inner workings of the pupils; they write self-portraits which describe their aspirations, hobbies, and dislikes.

This diverse classroom could be found in many countries. The film won many international awards and was nominated for an Academy Award.

The Laconia International Film Series is open free to everyone. Brief informal discussion follows the film. Light snacks are provided. Feel free to bring a cushion for comfort in viewing the movie. Please join us!

The Laconia Human Relations Committee is a committee of the mayor of Laconia dedicated to expanding our horizons for the appreciation of the diversity found among us and in the wider world. For more information, contact Len Campbell at lcampbell@nh-cc.org or Carol Pierce at newdynam@aol.com.