Once in a Lifetime Poster

Once in a Lifetime 2014

★ 7.4329 votes105 min📅 2014-12-03

"Based on a true story"

Set against the gritty backdrop of Léon Blum High School in Créteil, *Once in a Lifetime* (2014) follows a determined history teacher who takes a bold risk by entering her most challenging 10th-grade class into a prestigious national competition.

Director: Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar

Cast

Ariane Ascaride
Ariane Ascaride
Anne Gueguen
Ahmed Dramé
Ahmed Dramé
Malik
Noémie Merlant
Noémie Merlant
Mélanie
Geneviève Mnich
Geneviève Mnich
Yvette Thomas
Stéphane Bak
Stéphane Bak
Max
Wendy Nieto
Wendy Nieto
Jamila
Aïmen Derriachi
Aïmen Derriachi
Saïd
Mohamed Seddiki
Mohamed Seddiki
Olivier / Brahim
Adrien Hurdubae
Adrien Hurdubae
Théo
Alicia Dadoun
Alicia Dadoun
Camélia

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Once in a Lifetime* (2014) about?

The film tells the inspiring true story of a history teacher who defies expectations by entering her struggling students into a national competition. Through their journey, the class confronts the dark chapters of WWII while discovering their own voices in the process.

Who directed *Once in a Lifetime*?

Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar directed this 2014 drama, known for blending historical gravitas with intimate character studies.

Who stars in *Once in a Lifetime*?

The film features Ariane Ascaride as the teacher, alongside Ahmed Dramé, Noémie Merlant, Geneviève Mnich, and Stéphane Bak in pivotal roles.

Is *Once in a Lifetime* (2014) worth watching?

With its emotionally charged storytelling and strong performances, *Once in a Lifetime* is a compelling watch for fans of uplifting dramas. While not high-octane in pace, its themes of perseverance and education give it real depth.

How long is *Once in a Lifetime*?

The film runs for 105 minutes, offering a tight yet impactful narrative.

🎥 Trailer

Once in a Lifetime: The True Story That Ignited a Classroom — Full Movie Info

Set against the gritty backdrop of Léon Blum High School in Créteil, *Once in a Lifetime* (2014) follows a determined history teacher who takes a bold risk by entering her most challenging 10th-grade class into a prestigious national competition. Instead of sticking to textbooks, she challenges these underdog students to dive deep into the complexities of World War II, sparking debates about memory, identity, and justice. Directed by Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar, the film weaves together the raw energy of youth with the weight of history, creating an atmosphere that's both hopeful and deeply moving.

With standout performances from Ariane Ascaride as the passionate educator and Ahmed Dramé as the fiery student leader, this heartfelt drama transforms a seemingly simple competition into a transformative journey about what it means to learn—and unlearn—history in the most personal way.