The French Film THE MEASURE of a MAN - Immeasurably Touching and Inspiring

THE MEASURE of a MAN is a French film with English sub-titles.  It is a voyeuristic, slice of life movie following an ordinary yet extraordinary man, that is nothing short of miraculous.  Stephane Brize's (b. France 1959) quiet film was seleted for the Palme d'Or at Cannes in 2015.  I felt I was looking over Thierry's shoulder throughout the film and my empathy and admiration for his humane behavior was visceral.  I can't think of more humble & decent character portrayed on film.  It starts with Thierry being part of a heated discussion with co-workers, all laid off from their jobs. An irate man argues vehemently for litigation against their former employer.  Thierry maintains calm & restraint.  There are many qualities to admire in Thierry's character.  He demonstrates measured reason, fairplay and a level head at all times.  Thierry is in dire need of work to provide for his wife and disabled son.  Soufine Guerrab who portrays the son with cerebral palsey gives a tour de force, heart rendering performance.  Thierry, though not a forceful figure, is neither easily intimidated or deterred from his keen sense of right & wrong.  Our compassion & concern for Thierry (an indomitable Vincent Lindon ) continuously grow as we clandestinely observe his interactions with others.  Thierry shows great tenderness with his family, an appreciation for joys in life, and an omnipresent respectful & responsible disposition.  I cringed at how insensitively he was treated by those in his interview building skills class.  This only fuels our respect for his composure and our empathy for him.  Thierry desperately needs his paycheck but this does not outweigh his tolerance of cruelty.  "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."  This remarkable & touching film embraces the best in humanity to be emulated.