French movies have given the world some of the most beautiful, moving, and unforgettable stories.
In this guide, we’ve selected 20+ French films to watch in 2025, including “Amélie,” “Léon: The Professional,” and “Anatomie d’une chute.” Don’t miss out!
Amélie (Le fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain)
- Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
- Stars: Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus, Serge Merlin
- Release Year: 2001
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and WeTV.
Plot Summary: “Amélie” explores the inner world of Emilie Poulain (Audrey Tautou), a shy waitress who grew up isolated but possesses a vibrant imagination. Through small acts, she strives to change the lives of strangers and neighbors, helping them discover happiness. While transforming the lives of others, Emilie confronts her own fear of intimacy.
Why it’s recommended: “Amélie,” with its warm colors, transforms Paris into a dreamlike city. The camera often focuses on details, like the moment a spoon slices through the surface of a crème brûlée.
Every time I watch it, I feel a small surge of happiness, as it demonstrates how life is filled with small joys.
Audrey Tautou’s Amélie is so kind and subtle that I instantly connect with her. She’s a little quirky, a bit shy, yet incredibly optimistic. This French film has made me believe that everyone can live in their own fairytale world.
The Intouchables
- Director: Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano
- Stars: François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot
- Release Year: 2011
- IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Tubi, and YouTube
Plot Summary: “The Intouchables” tells the story of Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, who hires Driss as his live-in assistant. Driss comes from the slums and has no nursing experience. Their backgrounds and personalities collide, quickly developing into an unlikely friendship.
Why it’s recommended: This French film stands out for its deeply moving plot and comedic elements. Omar Sy’s performance earned him a César Award for Best Actor, making him the first Black actor to receive France’s highest movie honor. The movie was also nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and became one of the highest-grossing French films of all time.
The Chorus (Les Choristes)
- Director: Christophe Barratier
- Stars: Gérard Jugnot, François Berléand, Jean-Baptiste Maunier, Kad Merad
- Release Year: 2004
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and Netflix
Plot Summary: “Les Choristes” tells the story of Clement Mathieu, the director of a boarding school for troubled boys. Despite the school’s strict discipline, Mathieu is determined to inspire the children through music. He secretly forms a choir to help them discover their hidden talents and give them hope. Choir member Pierre is a gifted man whose life is transformed under Mathieu’s guidance.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie, without flashy special effects or glamorous stars, relies instead on genuine emotion, a group of troubled teenagers, and the unwavering support of their teacher. The film’s music is gentle and flowing, and the choir’s songs linger long after the film ends. The film was nominated for two Oscars and won the European Film Award for Best Music.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire (Portrait de la jeune fille en feu)
- Director: Céline Sciamma
- Stars: Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel, Luàna Bajrami, Valeria Golino
- Release Year: 2019
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO, and YouTube
Plot Summary: Set in 18th-century France, “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” tells the story of painter Marianne, who is secretly hired to paint a wedding portrait of Héloïse, a young woman reluctant to marry. As Marianne examines the portrait, the relationship between the two women gradually intensifies, ultimately developing into a passionate love story.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie, with its slow pace, allows you to feel every glance and hesitation between the women, as if you were part of their world. Céline Cimama’s direction is meticulous, and the chemistry between Merlant and Haenel is both exciting and nuanced. It’s no surprise that the movie won Best Screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for a Golden Globe.
Léon: The Professional
- Director: Luc Besson
- Stars: Jean Reno, Natalie Portman, Gary Oldman, Danny Aiello
- Release Year: 1994
- IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and IQIYI
Plot Summary: “Léon: The Professional” tells the story of Leon, a lone assassin living in New York, who takes in a 12-year-old girl named Matilda. Matilda’s family is murdered by corrupt DEA agents, led by Norman Stansfield. As Leon trains Matilda to become a killer, an unusual bond develops between them.
Why it’s recommended: This French film transports you to a world of conflicting violence and tenderness. Jean Reno plays it calm and steady, while Natalie Portman brings an energy that’s raw, tough, but also fragile. Despite its controversial subject matter, the movie has become a classic of French cinema. For me, the film’s success lies in its balance of thrilling action and heartfelt human connection.
Paris, je t’aime
- Director: Multiple directors, including the Coen Brothers, Gus Van Sant, and Olivier Assayas
- Stars: Juliette Binoche, Natalie Portman, Elijah Wood, Gérard Depardieu
- Release Year: 2006
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and Hulu
Plot Summary: “Paris, je t’aime” is a collection of 18 short stories set in different Parisian neighborhoods. Each segment explores love, loneliness, and relationships through unique characters and situations. The work of various directors creates a mosaic of Parisian life.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie showcases diverse perspectives and rich performances. Each segment features a distinct cinematography, ranging from tight close-ups to sweeping cityscapes. The film won the César Award for Best Short Film and received acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival. Each short deftly tells a complete and emotional story without feeling rushed.
Anatomie d’une chute
- Director: Justine Triet
- Stars: Sandra Hüller, Samuel Theis, Milo Machado-Graner
- Release Year: 2023
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, and Hulu
Plot Summary: “Anatomie d’une chute” tells the story of German writer Sandra, who lives in the French Alps with her husband, Samuel, and their visually impaired son, Daniel. When Samuel is found dead outside their home, Sandra becomes the prime suspect, and a tense court trial unfolds.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie stands out for its precise narrative and captivating performances. Sandra Wheeler delivers a gripping portrayal of a high-profile woman. Simon Bofils’s cinematography, with its abundance of close-ups and snowy landscapes, heightens the emotional tension.
The film won the Cannes Palme d’Or, the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, and six César Awards, including Best Picture. Even after watching the adaptation, I pondered the complexities of truth and judgment.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
- Director: Michel Gondry
- Stars: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Elijah Wood, Mark Ruffalo
- Release Year: 2004
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV
Plot Summary: “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” tells the story of Joel and Clementine, a couple who undergo surgery to erase each other’s memories after their breakup. As the surgery progresses, Joel relives key moments in their relationship and realizes he doesn’t want to forget.
Why it’s recommended: In this movie, director Michel Gondry uses special effects, camera tricks, and episodic editing to make memories tangible. The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and numerous other accolades. During the screening, I was struck by how effectively the movie portrays the characters’ pain and longing.
The Rules of the Game (La Règle du Jeu)
- Director: Jean Renoir
- Stars: Marcel Dalio, Nora Gregor, Paulette Dubost, Jean Renoir
- Release Year: 1939
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
- Where to Watch: Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
Plot Summary: “The Rules of the Game” is a French satire exploring the lives of the French upper class and their servants during weekend hunting parties. The story exposes the hypocrisy, romantic entanglements, and social tensions hidden beneath polite etiquette.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie, with its unique narrative techniques and deep-focus cinematography, presents multi-layered action. Although controversial in 1939, it is now recognized as a masterpiece. I personally believe that the film blends humor and criticism, offering both entertainment and exposure of the moral issues of high society.
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The 400 Blows (Les Quatre Cents Coups)
- Director: François Truffaut
- Stars: Jean-Pierre Léaud, Albert Rémy, Claire Maurier, Guy Decomble
- Release Year: 1959
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
- Where to Watch: Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime Video
Plot Summary: “The 400 Blows” tells the story of Antoine Doinel, a young boy living in Paris, who struggles with his parents’ neglect and a repressive school system. Feeling misunderstood, Antoine begins to commit petty crimes and eventually runs away from home in search of freedom and self-expression.
Why it’s recommended: This French film is a cornerstone of the French New Wave, renowned for its realistic location shooting and delicate storytelling. It won the Best Director Award at Cannes and established Truffaut’s status as a major figure in world cinema. After watching this movie, I felt a mixture of sadness and empathy.
La Môme
- Director: Olivier Dahan
- Stars: Marion Cotillard, Sylvie Testud, Gérard Depardieu, Emmanuelle Seigner
- Release Year: 2007
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube
Plot Summary: “La Mome” is a French biographical film about the life of singer Edith Piaf. The story follows her journey from a poor childhood to a legendary singing legend, while also exploring her personal struggles with love, addiction, and loss.
Why it’s recommended: This French film is unforgettable for Marion Cotillard’s captivating performance, which captures Piaf’s charm, vulnerability, and passion. The movie won two Academy Awards and numerous French awards, including the César. I was personally deeply moved by how the film balances the glamorous public life with the pain of her private life.
Jeux d’enfants
- Director: Yann Samuell
- Stars: Guillaume Canet, Marion Cotillard, Guillaume Gallienne, Clotilde Courau
- Release Year: 2003
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube
Plot Summary: “Jeux d’enfants” tells the story of childhood friends Julien and Sophie, who engage in a lifelong, challenging game that tests their love, boundaries, and trust. As the challenges escalate, their relationship becomes increasingly strained.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie uses vibrant colors and dynamic camerawork to capture the energy and unpredictability of Julien and Sophie’s game. Marion Cotillard and Guillaume Canet deliver a seamless chemistry, their performances both playful and emotionally sincere. The movie has won multiple awards for cinematography and editing.
Dans la maison (In the House)
Director: François Ozon
Stars: Fabrice Luchini, Ernst Umhauer, Emmanuelle Seigner, Kristin Scott Thomas
Release Year: 2012
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube
Plot Summary: “In the House” tells the story of a bright high school student, Germain, who meticulously describes the family life of his classmate and teacher, Claude. As his stories become increasingly intimate and manipulative, the line between fiction and reality blurs.
Why it’s recommended: This French movie deftly blends suspense and dark humor. The cinematography and framing emphasize voyeurism and intimacy, heightening the tension. The film won the Méliès Prize at the San Sebastian Film Festival and received widespread critical acclaim. I was amazed to see how a simple school assignment escalated into a tense psychological drama.
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Other French Movies You Can Choose
Le Silence de la Mer
Adapted from the novel by Vercorse, it tells the story of the delicate relationship between a German officer and his French family during the German occupation of France. It is a classic adaptation of resistance literature.
Cyrano de Bergerac
Starring Gérard Depardieu, this adaptation of the play of the same name tells the story of the romantic tragedy of Cyrano de Bergerac, a brilliant but self-conscious young man. The film, with its beautiful language, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Lunes de Fiel
Roman Polanski’s movie about love and lust depicts the passion and depravity of marriage in a frank and bold manner, resulting in considerable controversy.
Dancer in the Dark
Directed by Lars von Trier and starring Icelandic singer Jasper, this tragic musical tells the story of an immigrant mother who sacrifices everything for her son. It won the Palme d’Or at Cannes.
Le Grand Bleu
Directed by Luc Besson, this French classic revolves around the friendship and rivalry between two freedivers. With its beautiful visuals and moving score, it has become a classic in French film history.
Le Lune et le Sixpence
Adapted from Somerset Maugham’s novel, it tells the story of a British stockbroker who abandons his family to pursue his painting dreams in the South Pacific.
La Vie d’Adèle – Chapitres 1 & 2
The film tells the story of the same-sex love between the young girl Adèle and the painter Emma. The film won the Palme d’Or at Cannes for its heartfelt performances and emotional portrayal, and has become a hugely popular movie.
Les Chansons d’Amour
This French musical romance, directed by Christophe Honoré, uses song to connect love, loss, and a new beginning.
How to Watch These Best French Movies?
Many classic French films are available on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Hulu, and the Criterion Channel. However, due to regional licensing restrictions, some French films are only released in France.
If you want to watch French movies online anytime, anywhere, using a VPN is the most convenient way.
- Install LightningX VPN on your device.
- Open the app → Log in → Select a French node.
- Unblock French streaming libraries like Netflix France, Canal+, or Arte.
- Restart the French streaming sites, search for the French film you want, and play.
- For 4K/HD streaming, connect to 5 GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet and select the nearest high-speed, low-latency server.
LightningX VPN offers fast servers in over 70 countries, making it easy to unblock French and other European films. It uses advanced encryption and obfuscation technology to provide full streaming access while ensuring strong online privacy.
With this guide and our French movie list, you can enjoy every classic film from romantic dramas to award-winning masterpieces, no matter where you are in the world.
