French cinema is unique. A constant drive for originality without the constraints of Hollywood’s money men peering over the directors’ shoulders means a highly diverse creative output. For viewers raised on high-paced American blockbusters, French art house films can seem a bit slow, while the humour doesn’t always translate well. But you will also find some gems that appeal to all tastes.
Here are a selection of five French movies perfect for keeping your French skills fresh:
L’Auberge espagnole, France 2002 IMDB
Director: Cédric Klapisch
A movie that will speak to anyone who has studied abroad. Economics student Xavier has to learn Spanish and signs up for a year in Barcelona. Leaving his loving girlfriend behind, he is thrown into a cultural melting pot with a Dane, an English girl, an Italian, a young Belgian, a German and a Spanish girl. Will Xavier loosen up and learn to have some fun?
If L’Auberge espagnole gives you itchy feet, check out our Spanish courses in Barcelona.
Ne le dis à personne, France 2006 IMDB
Director: Guillaume Canet
American author Harlan Coben’s thriller Tell No One is transplanted into the heart of France with dramatic effect. Dr. Alexander Beck loses his wife in mysterious circumstances. Out of the blue, eight years later, he receives an email from her. What can it mean?
A superb, high-paced thriller that throws up plenty of twists, turns and tension.
La Cage Aux Folles, France 1978 IMDB
Director: Edouard Molinaro
The classic comedy about two gay men who own a transvestite nightclub in St. Tropez. When one of the couple’s sons announces his engagement, they invite his fiancée’s stuck up parents for dinner. Can the couple play it straight for a night?
The movie was remade in English as The Birdcage (starring Robin Williams) but the original has never been bettered.
8 Femmes, France 2002 IMDB
Director: François Ozon
1950s France: a family gathers for Christmas. But this is no time for celebration: the father and patriarch has been murdered! Eight women, eight motives, eight suspects. But whodunit?
Easy viewing and great fun, this is a light hearted take on the classic country house murder mystery.
Le fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain, France 2001 IMDB
Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Audrey Tautou is captivating as Amélie, a lady who, after a sad childhood, dedicates herself to making those around her happy. Fantastic and fantastical, we meet a range of characters and enjoy the full range of emotions. The movie was nominated for five Oscars and is one of the most commercially successful French productions of all time.
If the Parisian streets scenes give you wanderlust, have a look at our French courses in Paris.
See our selections of great German language movies and Spanish language movies for more inspiration.
What do you think?