Monsieur Lazhar (2011)

Bachir Lazhar, an Algerian immigrant, is hired to replace an elementary school teacher who died tragically. While the class goes through a long healing process, nobody in the school is aware of Bachir’s painful former life; nor that he is at risk of being deported at any moment. Adapted from Evelyne de las Cheneliere’s play, this French Canadian film depicts the encounter between two distinct worlds and the power of self expression. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. One hour, 34 minutes.