Top 50 French Movies That Everyone Should Watch

French cinema has a rich and storied history, producing some of the most acclaimed and beloved films in cinematic history. From the timeless masterpieces of the New Wave era to the thought-provoking dramas and stylish thrillers of today, French movies offer a diverse and captivating tapestry of cinematic experiences.

This list of 50 must-see French movies is a celebration of the very best that French cinema has to offer. These films have been selected for their exceptional quality, iconic status, and enduring impact on audiences around the world.

Top 50 French Movies That everyone should watch: French cinema

by Eduard Tatulyan

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5103 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	52 pages

FREE

1. La Grande Illusion (1937)

   

   Jean Renoir's anti-war masterpiece is a poignant tale of camaraderie and human resilience set in a World War I prisoner-of-war camp. With its stunning cinematography, unforgettable characters, and powerful message of peace, La Grande Illusion remains one of the greatest films ever made.

2. Breathless (1960)

   

   Jean-Luc Godard's groundbreaking debut film revolutionized French cinema with its unconventional style and existential themes. Breathless follows the story of a petty criminal and his whirlwind romance with an American woman, capturing the restless spirit of the New Wave era.

3. Jules et Jim (1962)

   

   François Truffaut's enchanting love triangle is a classic of French cinema. Set in pre-World War I Paris, Jules et Jim follows the lives of two friends who fall in love with the same woman. With its beautiful cinematography, lyrical dialogue, and memorable performances, the film is a timeless meditation on love, friendship, and loss.

4. The 400 Blows (1959)

   

   François Truffaut's semi-autobiographical masterpiece is a poignant coming-of-age story about a troubled young boy named Antoine nel. Through Antoine's experiences, Truffaut explores themes of childhood, adolescence, and the search for identity. The film's raw realism and sympathetic portrayal of Antoine made it a landmark in French cinema.

5. Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962)

   

   Agnès Varda's groundbreaking film follows the story of a young woman named Cléo who believes she has a terminal illness and spends the next two hours of her life wandering the streets of Paris. With its real-time narrative, experimental style, and feminist themes, Cléo from 5 to 7 is a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

6. Le Samouraï (1967)

   

   Jean-Pierre Melville's stylish crime thriller stars Alain Delon as a professional hitman who finds himself entangled in a web of betrayal and violence. With its atmospheric cinematography, sparse dialogue, and iconic score, Le Samouraï is a classic example of the French film noir genre.

7. The Red Circle (1970)

   

   Jean-Pierre Melville's heist film is a masterpiece of suspense and tension. The Red Circle follows the meticulous planning and execution of a daring jewelry heist by a team of professional criminals. With its stellar cast, intricate plot, and stylish direction, the film is a must-see for fans of the genre.

8. Diva (1981)

   

   Jean-Jacques Beineix's neo-noir thriller is a visually stunning and suspenseful tale of a young postal worker who becomes entangled in a high-stakes opera recording theft. With its stylish camerawork, atmospheric soundtrack, and memorable performances, Diva is a cult classic of French cinema.

9. The City of Lost Children (1995)

   

   Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro's dark and whimsical fantasy film is a visual feast that follows the adventures of a young boy who searches for his kidnapped brother in a strange and dangerous world. With its stunning visuals, imaginative characters, and unique atmosphere, The City of Lost Children is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

10. Amélie (2001)

    

    Jean-Pierre Jeunet's charming romantic comedy is a heartwarming tale of a young woman who finds joy in the smallest things in life. With its whimsical visuals, delightful characters, and feel-good atmosphere, Amélie is a must-see for anyone who loves a good love story.

11. The Intouchables (2011)

    

    Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano's feel-good comedy-drama is a true story about the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caregiver from a poor neighborhood. With its heartwarming story, memorable performances, and uplifting message, The Intouchables is a film that will leave you with a smile on your face.

12. Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)

    

    Abdellatif Kechiche's Palme d'Or-winning drama is a powerful and unflinching portrayal of a young woman's coming-of-age and first love. With its explicit sex scenes, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, Blue is the Warmest Color is a film that will stay with you long after you've seen it.

13. Dheepan (2015)

    

    Jacques Audiard's Palme d'Or-winning drama is a powerful and moving story about a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee who poses as a husband and wife with two children in Free Download to gain entry into France. With its realistic portrayal of the refugee experience, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, Dheepan is a film that will stay with you long after you've seen it.

14. BPM (Beats Per Minute) (2017)

    

    Robin Campillo's Palme d'Or-winning drama is a powerful and moving story about the AIDS activist group

Top 50 French Movies That everyone should watch: French cinema

by Eduard Tatulyan

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5103 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	52 pages

FREE