“To Be and To Have” or “Etre et Avoir” is a 2002 French documentary film directed by Nicolas Philibert. It shows multiple grade levels being taught in one house for an entire province. It shows this slower pace and naturalistic attention to detail. It shows the love that the professor has for his students and the way he teaches is so organic and appreciative. It has this almost natural differentiation because he is teaching so many different ages, and he does it with this ease and distinction through character.

Watching this movie gave me a sense of simplicity and peace like no other movie I have watched. I feel like movies made in America are dramatic and thrilling, but I have watched and lightly dissected a few french films and have found a lighter edge, yet realistic and raw feel. The actors even seem less vain and more immersed in the act.

Understanding bits and pieces of the show without having to read subtitles was another experience within itself. I speak minimal french and always had enjoyed their softness of their acting in most films. Hollywood productions feel a lot more visceral and loud, almost, whereas french productions feel authentic and not as exaggerated. All in all, I enjoyed the cultural differentiations throughout the film and felt the realness coming off the screen.