Dalry School

Hannah, S3, reports… 

"On 14th November 2008, S3 and S4 went to see the French film, “Michou d’Auber”.

The film was set when Algeria was struggling to gain independence from France. It is set mainly in the small village of Berry in the 1960s.

The film is about little 9-year old Messaoud from Algeria. When his mother becomes ill with leukaemia, Messaoud’s father places him and his brother in foster care. The brothers are split up. While his brother is sent to a farm, Messaoud is sent to live with kindly Gisèle. In his new home, he is in for a two-year roller coaster ride. 

Although she has accepted him into her home, Gisèle now faces problems. Messaoud is a Muslim, an Arab. In Berry, her home town, Arabs are hated brutally. She decides that Messaoud must become Michou d’Auber. In a couple of hours, his life is transformed. Papers hidden away, he is now a Christian from up North.

Warned about the husband Georges’ temper (actor Gérard Dépardieu), Michou prepares himself. However, soon Georges and Michou form a close relationship. As Michou struggles with his schoolwork and the other children, it is George who comes to the rescue, teaching him all he needs to know.

Marital problems begin to rage between Gisèle and Georges, and it is Michou’s loving influence which brings them together. But tragedy strikes. Just as the happy trio contemplate adoption, Michou’s father returns. Algeria has won its independence, Michou’s mother is dead, and he has a new little sister. Heartbreakingly, the little boy must now go back.

But before Michou goes, Georges makes him a promise. True to his word, a few months later, Georges comes to takes Michou to the beach.

Some interesting themes run through the film, which is a true story.

The darkest one is the hatred of Arabs. At one point, a friend of Michou’s shows him his father’s “trophy” collection from the war – Arabs’ ears on a necklace.

A happier theme is the growing affection between Michou and Georges. It is truly touching. Interestingly, George always refers to himself in the third person – “Georges will teach you to write”.

I really liked the film. It was amusing, but also sad and touching. A really brilliant film!”


Amanda, S3, adds… 

"Michou has to hide his identity, but all is found out! The film had a serious point… we are all the same. It is based on a true story.”


Katie, S3, writes…

"Michou d’Auber is a French film we went to see with the French class. I really enjoyed the film and found it very interesting. When it is revealed that Michou is Arabic, Georges’ opinions change and he realises everybody is equal, and racism should not be tolerated.” “

I really enjoyed the film and found it very interesting.”