The Ultimate Guide to French Movies, Series, and Books
Must-Watch French Movies
Modern Classics and Heartwarming Stories
- Amélie (Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain)
Synopsis: Amélie, a dreamy young woman, sets out to improve the lives of others while discovering her own.
Why Watch?: A poetic tribute to Paris that brims with optimism and whimsy.
- Intouchables
Synopsis: An unlikely friendship blossoms between a paralyzed aristocrat and a young man from the suburbs.
Why Watch?: A perfect mix of comedy and heartfelt emotion with a powerful message about embracing differences.
- La Famille Bélier
Synopsis: A teenager, the only hearing member in a deaf family, discovers her passion for singing.
Why Watch?: A touching exploration of family bonds and following one’s dreams.
- Les Choristes (The chorus)
Synopsis: A music teacher transforms the lives of troubled boys through the power of choir singing.
Why Watch?: A moving story about redemption and the transformative power of music.
- L’Auberge Espagnole
Synopsis: The adventures of a French student living in Barcelona with an eclectic mix of roommates.
Why Watch?: A vibrant depiction of youth, multiculturalism, and self-discovery.
Movies Tackling Society and Contemporary Issues
- Les Misérables (2019)
A raw portrayal of social tensions in French suburbs.
- The Class (Entre les Murs)
A realistic glimpse into the dynamics of a high school in a disadvantaged area.
- Polisse
Follows the Child Protection Unit as they tackle sensitive and complex cases.
- La Haine
A gripping day in the lives of three friends in the aftermath of a riot in the suburbs.
- Divines
A powerful coming-of-age story set in a disadvantaged neighborhood.
- Women of War (Netflix)
A poignant series exploring the roles of women during wartime.
Action and Crime Thrillers
- Mesrine
A gripping biopic of Jacques Mesrine, France’s most notorious criminal.
- Léon: The Professional
A classic thriller about the bond between a hitman and a young girl.
Based on True Stories
- La Vie en Rose (La Môme)
The extraordinary life of Édith Piaf, France’s most iconic singer.
- Coco Before Chanel (Coco avant Chanel)
The early life of Coco Chanel, who revolutionized the fashion industry.
Hilarious Comedies
- Dikkenek
A Belgian comedy full of outrageous humor and cult-worthy lines.
- Les Trois Frères
The misadventures of three brothers who unexpectedly inherit a fortune.
- Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
A witty adaptation of the adventures of the famous Gauls.
- Les Visiteurs
A medieval knight and his squire hilariously navigate modern-day France.
- Nos Jours Heureux
A lighthearted comedy about life at a summer camp.
Timeless Classics
- Les Tontons Flingueurs
A cult gangster comedy blending sharp humor with action.
