TK Park will conclude its "Contemporary World Film Series" this year with the screening of Monsieur Lazhar, a moving and memorable tale from Canada, on Saturday Oct 20 at 4pm.
Winner of six Canadian Genie Awards and many other awards at top festivals around the world and an Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film in 2012, the Canadian drama is directed by Philippe Falardeu who set the story during an icy winter at a Montreal elementary school.
The film has a shock opening with the unexpected suicide of a popular teacher. The young students are deeply affected, the staff try to help them out while the principal looks desperately for a replacement.
That's when the pleasant Bachir Lazhar walks in. He's an Algerian immigrant, who says he has plenty of teaching experience, and proceeds to start taking classes almost immediately.
The rest of the film portrays the bittersweet moments as Bachir tries to forge a relationship with his young students, in particular two youngsters -- the traumatised Simon, who thinks he's responsible for the teacher's suicide, and Alice, who becomes his favourite pupil. The icy winter outside is in sharp contrast to the warmth of emotions in the classroom. There are many barriers -- cultural, educational and of course, age. It is a learning experience for the Canadian students and the Algerian teacher.
What the students don't know is that Bachir has suffered a great loss himself. What the school authorities don't know is that he has secrets to hide. In today's world of refugees and immigrants, the movie offers many insights into their problems. It also offers a heart-warming portrait of Canada's diverse and inclusive society.
The movie is in French with English subtitles. The screening is supported by the Embassy of Canada whose ambassador, Donica Pottie, will introduce the film. Snacks and drinks will be served after the screening.
Entry fee is 20 baht. TK Park is on the 8th floor, Zone D of CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Road.
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