France is one of the most influential countries in the history of cinema, producing many masterpieces that have shaped the art form and inspired generations of filmmakers. Whether you are a fan of romance, comedy, drama, or thriller, there is a French movie for you. Here are ten French movies you should watch.
1. The Rules of the Game (1939)
Directed by Jean Renoir, this classic comedy-drama is considered one of the greatest films ever made. It depicts the lives and loves of a group of aristocrats and their servants during a weekend at a country estate, where they engage in various affairs, intrigues, and misunderstandings. The film is a satire of French society and its moral decadence on the eve of World War II.
2. Breathless (1960)
This groundbreaking film is one of the landmarks of the French New Wave movement. It stars Jean-Paul Belmondo as a petty criminal who steals a car and kills a policeman, and Jean Seberg as an American journalist who becomes his lover and accomplice. The film is famous for its innovative use of jump cuts, handhelcamerasra, and improvised dialogue.
3. The 400 Blows (1959)
This semi-autobiographical film is another masterpiece of the French New Wave. It tells the story of Antoine Doinel, a rebellious teenager who struggles with his dysfunctional family, his oppressive school, and his delinquent friends. The film is a poignant portrait of adolescence and a critique of the French education system.
4. Amélie (2001)
This whimsical romantic comedy is one of the most popular French films of all time. It stars Audrey Tautou as Amélie Poulain, a shy waitress who decides to change the lives of the people around her for the better by performing anonymous acts of kindness. Along the way, she also falls in love with a quirky man who collects discarded photo booth pictures⁴.
5. La Haine (1995)
Directed by Mathieu Kassovitz, this gritty drama is a powerful depiction of the social unrest and racial tension in the suburbs of Paris. It follows three young friends from different ethnic backgrounds who witness a police brutality incident that sparks a riot. The film is shot in black and white and features a hip-hop soundtrack and a cameo by Vincent Cassel.
6. The Intouchables (2011)
This uplifting comedy-drama is based on a true story. It stars Omar Sy as Driss, an ex-convict who becomes the caretaker of Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic played by François Cluzet. Despite their differences, they develop an unlikely friendship that changes their lives for the better.
7. The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)
This musical romance is one of the most beautiful and heartbreaking films ever made. It stars Catherine Deneuve as Geneviève, a young woman who falls in love with Guy, a mechanic played by Nino Castelnuovo. However, their relationship is tested by war, family pressure, and fate. The film is entirely sung and features a memorable score by Michel Legrand.
8. Les Diaboliques (1955)
This suspenseful thriller is one of the best examples of French noir cinema. It stars Simone Signoret and Véra Clouzot as two women who plot to murder their abusive husband/lover, played by Paul Meurisse. However, things go wrong when his body disappears and strange events start to happen. The film has a twist ending that shocked audiences at the time.
9. Jean de Florette (1986)
This epic drama is based on a novel by Marcel Pagnol. It stars Gérard Depardieu as Jean de Florette, a hunchbacked farmer who inherits a piece of land in Provence. However, he faces opposition from his greedy neighbors, played by Yves Montand and Daniel Auteuil, who covet his water source. The film is followed by a sequel called Manon des Sources.
10. Beauty and the Beast (1946)
It's not Beauty and the Beast as we know it but yeahhh it is based on the same story written by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve. Directed by Jean Cocteau, this fantasy romance is one of the most enchanting and poetic films ever made. It stars Jean Marais as the Beast, a cursed prince who lives in a magical castle, and Josette Day as Belle, a beautiful young woman who agrees to stay with him in exchange for her father's freedom. The film is a visual feast that uses special effects, costumes, and sets to create a fairy-tale atmosphere.
These are just ten of the many great French movies that you can watch and enjoy. You will find something that suits your taste and mood. French cinema is rich and diverse, and it offers a window into the culture, history, and art of France.
Grab some popcorn and start watching!
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