When I want to tackle a story or a subject, I always ask myself three questions: Is it important to talk about that? Will it interest other people than just me? Can I live with that for three or four years because that's how long it takes to do the project, to write the script, and to direct it, and then to do this.
Philippe FalardeauI studied political science and international relations, so I never considered myself an artist.
Philippe FalardeauOne particular night I was at the theater. I was not scouting for a project, but I was touched by this play by รvelyne de la Cheneliรจre. I was touched by the character. I thought it was a rich character that could be rich enough for a movie.
Philippe FalardeauI was interested in immigration and I wanted to use that in the film, not necessarily to talk about immigrants, although I wanted to do that, but to talk about ourselves through the eyes of an immigrant. The film takes place in the school and it tells us a little bit about who we are and where we're at, but through the eyes of someone who has a different background.
Philippe FalardeauIn the province of Quebec where I come from, we speak French and the only cosmopolitan city is Montreal. Every time we tackle the subject of immigration and racial tension, it's an issue that concerns Montreal. Also, in Quebec, we have this added issue that we want people to speak French, because French is always on the verge of disappearing to some extent. I work, play and do everything in French.
Philippe Falardeau