Welcome to the must-watch French movies! Get ready to discover some of the best French movies! Let's dive right in! Don't miss out on Part 2!
A masterpiece of poetic realism, this film unfolds in 19th-century Paris, revolving around a captivating actress and the men who love her. Rich in atmosphere and emotion, it explores themes of passion, art, and jealousy, with intricate storytelling and memorable performances set against a theatrical backdrop.
Starring: Arletty, Jean-Louis Barrault, Pierre Brasseur
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 8.3/10
1945
A landmark of the French New Wave, this semi-autobiographical film tells the story of a rebellious Parisian teenager struggling with neglect and misunderstanding. Its naturalistic style and heartfelt portrayal of youth capture the pain and hope of adolescence, making it a timeless exploration of freedom and alienation.
Starring: Jean-Pierre Léaud, Albert Rémy, Claire Maurier
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 8.0/10
1959
An intense social drama focusing on three young men in the troubled suburbs of Paris, dealing with violence, racism, and police brutality. Gritty and powerful, the film critiques societal divisions with sharp dialogue and striking visuals, offering a tense, urgent look at life on the margins.
Starring: Vincent Cassel, Hubert Koundé, Saïd Taghmaoui
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 8.1/10
1995
A poetic drama about two childhood friends and rivals who become free-diving champions. Their underwater world contrasts with their emotions, exploring obsession, friendship, and the human spirit’s depths. Breathtaking ocean scenes underscore the meditative tone.
Starring: Jean-Marc Barr, Jean Reno, Rosanna Arquette
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.5/10
1988
A gripping drama centred on the Act Up movement in 1990s Paris, it follows activists fighting for AIDS awareness and rights. Combining passion, urgency, and tenderness, the film highlights their struggles and camaraderie during a critical moment in health and social history.
Starring: Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, Arnaud Valois, Adèle Haenel
★★★★★★★☆☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.4/10
2017
A psychological drama about a young woman driven by a thirst for vengeance, set in the heat of summer. With an oppressive atmosphere and
intense performances, the film delves into themes of trauma, revenge, and the darker sides of human nature.
Starring: Isabelle Adjani, Alain Souchon, Suzanne Flon
★★★★★★★☆☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.2/10
1983
This dramedy delicately portrays the encounters between people from different social and cultural backgrounds, exploring how prejudices and
misunderstandings can be overcome. With subtle humour and engaging character interactions, it reveals the complexities of human connection,
all set against a backdrop of contemporary French society.
Starring: Jean-Pierre Bacri, Anne Alvaro, Alain Chabat
★★★★★★★☆☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.2/10
2000
A black-and-white silent film homage celebrating the golden age of cinema, it tells the romantic tale of a silent film star grappling with the arrival of talkies. Charming and witty, the movie captures the bittersweet transition from silence to sound with enchanting performances, beautiful visuals, and a timeless love story.
Starring: Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, John Goodman
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.8/10
2011
This cult comedy follows a group of friends on a skiing holiday, delivering a series of hilarious gags and absurd situations. Their
misadventures highlight friendship, jealousy, and the joys of leisure in a lighthearted, often silly, celebration of French holiday culture.
Starring: Thierry Lhermitte, Josiane Balasko, Michel Blanc
★★★★★★★☆☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.4/10
2011
A whimsical romantic comedy centred on Amélie, a shy Parisian waitress who decides to improve the lives of those around her in secret. Filled with poetic visuals and quirky characters, the film is a charming exploration of kindness, love, and the small joys that make life magical in Montmartre.
Starring: Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 8.3/10
2001
This poignant animated biopic follows a young Iranian girl navigating her childhood and adolescence amid the upheaval of the Islamic
Revolution. Combining humour, sorrow, and political insight, it offers a deeply personal view of growing up in a turbulent society,
highlighting themes of identity, exile, and resilience with striking, minimalist animation.
Starring: Chiara Mastroianni, Catherine Deneuve
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 8.0/10
2007
A tender animation about an orphaned boy named Courgette who moves into a foster home after losing his mother. Through new friendships and shared hardships, the film gently explores themes of loss, belonging, and healing. Its stop-motion style adds charm and warmth, making it a heartfelt story of resilience and the search for family.
Starring: Gaspard Schlatter, Sixtine Murat, Paulin Jaccoud
★★★★★★★★☆☆
IMDb RATING 7.8/10
2016
