French-language films provide a unique opportunity for educators and librarians to immerse students in rich cultural narratives while enhancing their language skills. Whether for French language learners or for those interested in exploring French culture and history, these films are educational, thought-provoking, and accessible for diverse audiences.
The Intouchables
The Intouchables is based on the true story of Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic man, and Driss, his caregiver from a poor neighborhood. The two form an unlikely bond as Driss helps Philippe navigate life despite his physical limitations. The film combines humor, heart, and insight into the human experience of friendship, disability, and class differences.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: This film is ideal for fostering discussions about class, disability, and social mobility, making it a great choice for high school and university classrooms. It highlights the transformative power of friendship and human connection, and offers a nuanced exploration of overcoming social barriers and stereotypes. It also introduces students to themes of empathy and inclusion, important for fostering a socially conscious classroom environment.
Buy a copy of The Intouchables on DVD here.
Monsieur Lazhar
In Monsieur Lazhar, an Algerian immigrant, Bachir Lazhar, is hired to teach a class of young students in Montreal after their previous teacher dies tragically. Throughout the film, Lazhar’s own grief and emotional struggles parallel those of his students as they cope with the loss of their beloved teacher. The film delves into themes of trauma, healing, and the power of mentorship.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: Monsieur Lazhar provides an excellent opportunity to discuss the role of teachers in supporting their students emotionally and psychologically. It also opens up conversations about cultural differences, immigration, and the challenges faced by educators and students in dealing with loss. The film’s emphasis on emotional intelligence and compassion makes it a strong addition to both language and social studies curricula.
Read our full review of Monsieur Lazhar here.
Buy a copy of Monsieur Lazhar on DVD here.
Amélie
Amélie tells the whimsical story of a shy young woman named Amélie who decides to improve the lives of those around her, all while grappling with her own sense of isolation. Set in the picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre in Paris, the film is filled with colorful visuals, quirky characters, and a lighthearted narrative about love, kindness, and self-discovery.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: Amélie is an ideal film for teaching students about visual storytelling, cinematic techniques, and French culture. It’s also a great way to introduce themes of individuality, generosity, and personal growth. The film’s unique style, blending whimsy with introspection, encourages creativity in the classroom and offers a perfect introduction to French cinema for students at all levels.
Buy a copy of Amélie on DVD here.
Playground
Playground is a poignant drama that follows a young girl named Nora, who experiences bullying at school and grapples with the emotional turmoil of trying to speak out against it. The film explores how Nora navigates the complicated social dynamics of her school, and her struggle to find support from adults and peers. The raw, realistic portrayal of childhood trauma and bullying makes Playground a compelling watch.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: Playground is an excellent film for classroom discussions about social issues such as bullying, mental health, and childhood trauma. Its sensitive depiction of the emotional lives of children and the societal challenges they face provides a springboard for discussions on empathy, resilience, and the role of educators and school systems in addressing difficult issues. It’s particularly suitable for high school classrooms where students are learning to understand social dynamics.
Read our full review of Playground here.
Buy a copy of Playground on DVD here.
Journeys Through French Cinema
Journeys Through French Cinema is a documentary series directed by Bertrand Tavernier, which explores the history of French cinema from its inception to modern times. Tavernier, a well-known French filmmaker, offers a personal and in-depth look at the filmmakers, actors, and landmark films that shaped the French cinematic landscape. The series offers a critical analysis of the evolution of film, making it an engaging resource for film studies, cultural studies, and history classes.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: This documentary is an invaluable educational resource for classrooms and libraries because it provides a thorough examination of French cinema's rich history. It can be used to enhance lessons on French culture, film history, and cinematic techniques, and is particularly useful for film studies programs, offering an accessible yet detailed perspective on the global influence of French filmmaking.
Read our full review of Journeys Through French Cinema here.
Buy a copy of Journeys Through French Cinema on Blu-ray here.
A Cat in Paris
A Cat in Paris is a delightful animated film about a young girl named Zoe, whose cat, Dino, leads a double life as the pet of both a little girl and a cat burglar. As the cat helps the burglar on his heists, Zoe embarks on an adventure of her own, discovering new worlds.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: This animated film is perfect for younger students as it combines adventure, humor, and a heartwarming story with colorful animation. It offers a chance for young children to experience French animation and culture in an accessible and entertaining way. The film also provides excellent material for discussing themes of friendship, trust, and courage in a lighthearted context.
Buy a copy of A Cat in Paris on DVD here.
The Chorus
The Chorus is a heartwarming film about a music teacher, Clément Mathieu, who helps a group of troubled boys at a French boarding school find their voices through music. It explores the themes of redemption, teamwork, and the power of the arts to inspire change.
Why it’s good for classes and libraries: This film is ideal for teaching students about the importance of arts education and mentorship. It highlights the power of music and teamwork in shaping young lives, making it a great resource for music classes and discussions on personal development and group dynamics. The Chorus is also a wonderful film for teaching French through its dialogue and musical content.
Buy a copy of The Chorus on DVD here.
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