Orchestra Class - Schools Screening

Hugely talented but out of work, classically-trained violinist Simon finds himself forced to take a teaching job at an inner-city school in Paris. There he meets Arnold, who’s painfully shy but demonstrates not only a natural musical talent but also the drive to succeed. Refreshed by Arnold’s commitment and the raw energy of his classmates, Simon rediscovers his enthusiasm for life and his passion for the music he creates. But will the young orchestra class be able to master the musical skills required for an end-of-year performance at the prestigious Paris Philharmonic? 

It’s a familiar tale, but this story lights up as a result of the terrific acting from its hugely talented youthful cast (with French comic actor Kad Merad playing against his usual type as the rather dour Simon). It’s also refreshing to see the families resident in the working class Parisian suburbs presented differently to many films, avoiding the often overused images of unemployment, violence and hopelessness. This far more positive film spotlights a community that pulls together to support their children’s hopes and dreams, and to increase their access to the world of musical and artistic expression.

We have proposed a minimum age of 15+ as a result of the ‘raw energy’ of the students often expressing itself through strong language and sexual references in their teasing of each other.

Our Young Ambassadors said: 
“Very engaging … a heartwarming film that hits all the right notes … great chemistry between the actors … a familiar plot but still enjoyable … very natural performances … (spoiler alert!) it was nice that in being a French film it didn’t have a tragic ending”

Dir: Rachid Hami
France 2017 / 1h42m / Age 15+
French with English subtitles

We are open for school bookings from 11:00 on Thu 23 August until Fri 2 November (with priority booking at our Teachers Preview).

Please book early as many films sell out. To be certain of our assistance with your travel arrangements please book before Wed 26 September.

To book, please call DCA Box Office on 01382 432 444.