School of Life

About This Movie

So, 'School of Life' from 2017 is this interesting little gem set in Paris back in the 1930s. It’s a mix of comedy and family drama, kinda heartwarming but with a touch of melancholy. The main character, Paul, spends his early years confined within the stark walls of an orphanage, which really gives you a sense of confinement right from the get-go. The shift when he meets Célestine and Borel is quite something—she brings a delightful warmth to his life, and you can feel the contrast with his previous life. The pacing feels just right, letting the moments linger without dragging. There's an understated charm to the performances, particularly in how they navigate the complexity of their lives. The atmosphere is painted with nostalgia, but it’s not overly sentimental, which I appreciate.

Set in 1930s Paris · Themes of confinement and warmth · Complex character dynamics