One of the most acclaimed films about Second World War France is being re-released in cinemas nationwide this month.

Au revoir les enfants is inspired by events which took place at director Louis Malle’s old school during the Second World War.

The story is set in 1944 at a well-to-do Catholic boys boarding school near Fontainebleau. Twelve-year-old Julien (Gaspard Manesse), a bright, popular pupil at the school, is asked by headmaster Père Jean to look after a new boy, the introverted  Jean Bonnet (Raphaël Fejtö).

Despite initial hostility, a friendship blossoms and then Julien learns Jean’s deadly secret – that he is Jewish and being hidden from the Nazis by the school’s priests.

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Malle said the events haunted him for his whole life – and this film will stay with you long past the closing credits.

Au revoir les enfants is rereleased on January 30 with a special preview on January 27.

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