To Be and to Have
To Be and to Have
NR | 05 September 2003 (USA)
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The documentary's title translates as "to be and to have", the two auxiliary verbs in the French language. It is about a primary school in the commune of Saint-Étienne-sur-Usson, Puy-de-Dôme, France, the population of which is just over 200. The school has one small class of mixed ages (from four to twelve years), with a dedicated teacher, Georges Lopez, who shows patience and respect for the children as we follow their story through a single school year.

Reviews
Evengyny

Thanks for the memories!

Lawbolisted

Powerful

Dotsthavesp

I wanted to but couldn't!

Pacionsbo

Absolutely Fantastic

mamasan41-829-175553

The only thing to do is ask your local library to get this film for you, if you cannot find it elsewhere. Every child needs to have a teacher like M. Lopez. I will not tell you more, go get this film from somewhere!!! Soak in the joy!!

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FilmCriticLalitRao

'To be and to have' is one of the most interesting documentary films about education made in recent times. It presents a novel look at the educational system especially through its intimate portrayal of a small school run by a single teacher. Before directing "Etre et Avoir", Nicolas Philibert had made several interesting documentary films. This film is absolutely unique as it does not focus solely on the small school in question as it extends its scope beyond four walls of the school. One can see what the students do when they are with their families. It is with great amazement, one sees how almost everything related to education is depicted through the personal involvement of Monsieur Georges Lopez. As a teacher, he is respected by all as apart from learning from him, they are free to receive advice from him on their personal problems. In many ways, watching Mr.Georges Lopez teach, one is reminded of the changes which need to be brought about in modern education systems which have more drawbacks but fewer advantages. This is a perfect film to be shown at all schools where French language is taught.

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keoldham

I was a bit puzzled as I began to watch this documentary - so many documentaries are of the "in your face" variety, and state their point of view early on; this film allows its them to unfold throughout, one bit at a time. For some reason I want to say that it was lovingly done - the director's approach was soft and familial, and the viewer comes to know and understand the life of this teacher, and his quiet passion for preparing children to enter the world.When I was at my university studying to be a teacher, the entire college of education was brought together to view "To Sir, With Love"; it was inspiring and filled us with enthusiasm for our future profession. As wonderful as "To Sir, With Love" is, I think that viewing this film is just as important for future educators. Sure, our circumstances are very different here, but our approach to children, and to life, can be the same in an American metropolis as it is in rural France. Definitely worth watching!

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Simone

A Beautiful film, showing the beauty of France in a way that wants you to go and visit (or live) there.I hear many bad things about the french, but i believe that they have not understood the certain rules that the french live by. The french are not cold people, but rather lovely, you just need to take the time and effort to get to know them, but once you do, the french are the most loyal people you can have as friends! This films is simply adorable, even if it is a documentary, it is not boring but rather entertaining, I wish i went to such a school! Perfect if you wish to learn french, and i think that it portrays the country french people well.

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