More cruel than intended (or--at least--far more than this viewer was willing to accept)
This may have been an instance of mismatched expectations. Perhaps I was expecting something gently nostalgic? Or more  subtle than a Hollywood comedy (or a Hollywood film for kids). There are occasional and wonderful moments of observational humor. Mostly, though, this is broad farce.<br /><br />What the writers considered to be funny: it's nearly always based on a familiar formula, one of which I'm admittedly weary: such that this will feel more like a pet peeve than an opinion. But nevertheless, the sort of thing where characters are repeatedly (and at times sadistically) tormented, for the sake of a few chuckles? Don't like it, never did: and this film relies on it. In ways both predictable and tiresome.<br /><br />(Of course, some viewers will find it more to their liking. I wouldn't want to cast aspersions on someone else's enjoyment. This isn't an awful movie; it's simply not the sort of thing I particularly enjoy.)<br /><br />The young actors do a fine job. Which could have been a challenge, given that most of the characters are little more than stereotypes: i.e. the kid who eats too much, the "dumb" kid, the "teacher's pet" who's a prissy tattletale, etc. Oh but they're somewhat affectionately portrayed, as cardboard cutouts go. (Except the obsessively-studious boy. Not a surprise that he's repeatedly bullied, but appalling how he's portrayed as fully deserving of every taunt and assault.) Nicolas is more well-rounded. Not terribly interesting: although--compared to his schoolmates--he's remarkably complex.<br /><br />Despite being boxed-in by similarly stereotypical characteristics? The foibles of Nicolas' parents (and of the other kids' parents, and the teacher) are a highlight, and got the most enthusiastic laughs. I recognize I may feel this way because they're adults and "can take it." Whereas seeing winsome, endearing kids endure mind-numbing mistreatment? Before using the word "funny," I'd think of plenty of less-flattering ways to characterize their seemingly-unending woes.<br /><br />Tone is everything. In Fargo many of the characters are tremendously engaging: including those who are loathsome. Even when they're placed in agonizing situations, it's hilarious.<br /><br />Le Petit Nicolas, superficially, appears a charming story about a group of prepossesing (even adorable) schoolboys. Then, at length, we see them (metaphorically) put through the woodchipper. This is neither Fargo nor South Park. It doesn't feel wrong; it feels worse than wrong.
Rating: 2 stars