Review of The Class (2007) by Matthew M — 23 Sep 2009

"The Class" reminds me of my interactions in high school, except for the whole speaking in french thing. In "The Class" we are subjected to real and honest conversations between a professor and his students, as well as the education system in France.

In what is part documentary and partly scripted, "The Class" has rapid fire dialogue that is both thoughtful and poignant. Much of this can be attributed to the structure established by Cantet and Begaudeau, but alot of credit must be given to the students who improvise most of their lines.

Although they're given character outlines and a basic framework, these "students" create their own dialogue on the spot which gives the film a feeling of spontaneity and honesty. In many ways it feels like a documentary.

Yet, this approach to the film slightly hinders the film in a way that makes me wonder if more depth could be given to the film. More importantly, I was interested in how the kids behaved out of school or how they interacted with their parents, and ultimately how this dynamic affected the learning process.

Furthermore, at times because of the films breadth of characters, there is too much going on to sustain any dramatic force. But, the rapid fire dialogue and the honesty from everyone involved makes "The Class" a highly engrossing film that captures not only the french school system, but those around the world.