Lesson Learned

Director:

Bálint Szimler

Genre:

Drama

Country/Region of production:

Hungary

Synopsis:

The film centers on 10-year-old Palkó's experience of transferring to a new school in a new country. His behavioral patterns clash with the school's rigid regulations, leading to him being labelled a "problem child." The PE teacher's violent corporal punishment exacerbates his self-isolation. This oppressive situation is disrupted by the arrival of Juci, the new literature teacher, who joins Palkó in challenging the inflexible education system. Together, they embark on a silent struggle concerning healing trauma and human awakening.

Why we recommend it:

"Lesson Learned" is the debut feature from rising Hungarian director Bálint Szimler, a student of surrealist master Ildikó Enyedi. The film uses a very distinctive style, marked by a cold-toned visual palette, oppressive framing, and an alienating narrative rhythm, to systematically deconstruct the hidden violence in ordinary schools. The film was selected for the Best Film Competition in the Filmmakers of the Present section at the 77th Locarno International Film Festival, while its lead actress won Best Actress for her gripping performance.

(This recommendation was written by Chinese director Wang Lina for CGTN's Picks. Her acclaimed film "A First Farewell" has won the Grand Prix of the Generation Kplus section at the 69th Berlin International Film Festival, the Best Asian Future Film Award at the 31st Tokyo International Film Festival, and the Golden Coconut Award for Best Director at the 2nd Hainan Island International Film Festival.)