Monsieur Lazhar (12A) (S)

Storyline

In Montreal, an elementary school teacher hangs herself in her classroom. M. Lazhar, a recent Algerian immigrant, offers to take her place, having assured the head teacher that he is fully qualified. The head gives him the job, thereby quickly solving a difficult situation. Lazhar, who has baggage of his own due to his refugee status and his previous life in Algeria, finds himself in a tricky position, trying to help his students come to terms with what has happened and coping with his own emotionally charged past.    Running time 94 minutes plus short item. French/Arabic with subtitles.