Top French Movies You Need to Watch: A Journey Through Classic and Modern French Cinema

French cinema has a way of captivating its audience with unique storytelling, deep characters, and a rich tapestry of visual aesthetics. From the 60s French New Wave to contemporary masterpieces, the allure of French films transcends time. If you’ve enjoyed classics like Belle de Jour, Cléo from 5 to 7, and Le Samouraï, this guide will dive deep into must-watch films that will enrich your love for French cinema. Whether you’re a fan of old-school vibes or looking to explore newer productions, here’s a curated list that spans the best of French cinema from different eras.

The Magic of 60s French Films

If you’ve recently discovered the magic of 60s French cinema, it’s easy to see why you’re hooked. The 1960s were an iconic period for French films, a time when directors pushed boundaries, experimented with narrative structure, and broke away from traditional Hollywood formulas. The French New Wave (La Nouvelle Vague) was in full swing, and directors like Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, and Agnès Varda were redefining cinema.

Breathless (1960) – Jean-Luc Godard

A quintessential French New Wave film, Breathless is both a revolutionary and refreshing experience. The movie tells the story of a young car thief, Michel, played by Jean-Paul Belmondo, and his American love interest, Patricia, portrayed by Jean Seberg. With its jump cuts, improvised dialogue, and fast-paced plot, Breathless became a blueprint for modern cinema and remains a must-watch for cinephiles.

The 400 Blows (1959) – François Truffaut

While not strictly from the 60s, The 400 Blows is often considered one of the pioneers of the French New Wave. Truffaut’s semi-autobiographical film follows the life of a young boy, Antoine Doinel, as he navigates a turbulent family life and his love for cinema. The film is emotionally poignant and visually stunning, offering a raw look at adolescence.

Contempt (1963) – Jean-Luc Godard

Contempt is another brilliant work by Godard that dissects the breakdown of a marriage set against the backdrop of film production. Starring Brigitte Bardot and Michel Piccoli, the film combines stunning visuals, philosophical themes, and Godard’s trademark style. It’s a slow burn but immensely rewarding for those who appreciate layered storytelling.

Diving Deeper into French Noir: The World of Melville

If you were intrigued by Le Samouraï, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of Jean-Pierre Melville’s works. Melville’s films are known for their minimalist style, sharp dialogue, and a focus on morally complex characters.

Le Cercle Rouge (1970) – Jean-Pierre Melville

Often compared to Le Samouraï in terms of tone and pacing, Le Cercle Rouge is a masterful heist film with Melville’s signature flair. Alain Delon returns as a brooding, enigmatic character, and the movie’s plot weaves a tense narrative about criminals crossing paths.

Army of Shadows (1969) – Jean-Pierre Melville

A departure from his usual crime thrillers, Army of Shadows is a sobering depiction of the French Resistance during World War II. The film didn’t gain much attention upon its release but has since been recognized as one of Melville’s masterpieces.

Expanding Beyond the 60s: Must-Watch French Classics

While the 60s are often highlighted as a golden era, French cinema is filled with gems across various decades. If you’re in the mood to broaden your horizons, here are some recommendations that span other periods of French filmmaking.

Amélie (2001) – Jean-Pierre Jeunet

While you might not have been entirely sold on Amélie, it’s hard to ignore its impact on modern French cinema. Known for its whimsical cinematography and quirky characters, Amélie has become a cultural icon. The film’s visual style, particularly its use of vibrant colours, is often a topic of discussion in cinematography classes worldwide.

The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) – Jacques Demy

If you’re a fan of films that look like art on screen, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg will sweep you off your feet. This musical drama starring Catherine Deneuve is a visual and emotional feast. Every line of dialogue is sung, and the film’s melancholic tale of young love lost is bound to stir something deep within you.

Day for Night (1973) – François Truffaut

Truffaut steps in front of the camera in this behind-the-scenes look at the trials and tribulations of making a film. Day for Night is not just for film buffs; it’s a celebration of the collaborative art of cinema, showing the personal struggles and professional challenges of actors, directors, and crew alike.

French Noir and Crime Thrillers: Unforgettable Grit and Style

If crime thrillers are more your speed, French cinema has a wealth of noir and crime films that remain both gripping and stylish.

Rififi (1955) – Jules Dassin

Even though it’s an American director’s work, Rififi is quintessentially French. This heist film stands out for its detailed planning sequences and minimal dialogue, especially during the 30-minute, dialogue-free heist scene. It has a gritty realism that continues to inspire filmmakers today.

Diabolique (1955) – Henri-Georges Clouzot

Before there was Psycho, there was Diabolique. This thriller blends suspense and horror in a way that will leave you guessing until the very end. If you love films that play with your expectations, Diabolique will keep you on the edge of your seat.

More Recent French Films You Shouldn’t Miss

Though classics dominate the conversation, modern French cinema offers equally captivating films that reflect contemporary themes and sensibilities.

Rust and Bone (2012) – Jacques Audiard

Starring Marion Cotillard and Matthias Schoenaerts, Rust and Bone is an emotional rollercoaster that combines romance, drama, and survival. Cotillard’s portrayal of a whale trainer who suffers a life-changing accident is hauntingly beautiful, and the film’s raw, gritty aesthetic will stick with you long after the credits roll.

A Very Long Engagement (2004) – Jean-Pierre Jeunet

If you enjoyed Amélie but wanted something a little deeper, A Very Long Engagement is a visually stunning and emotionally rich film set during World War I. Jeunet’s direction brings an epic romance to life, with heart-wrenching performances from Audrey Tautou and Gaspard Ulliel.

French Films That Fly Under the Radar

For every Amélie or Breathless, there are countless lesser-known French films that deserve recognition.

Love at Sea (1964) – Guy Gilles

Love at Sea is a poetic, introspective film that captures the emotional depth of its characters with a minimalist approach. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, it offers a meditative look at love and longing.

The Hairdresser’s Husband (1990) – Patrice Leconte

This film is an unusual love story, blending humour with melancholy in a way that only French cinema can. The story of a man who marries his childhood crush, a hairdresser, becomes a reflection on obsession and contentment.

Whether you’re a seasoned film buff or a newcomer to French cinema, the world of French filmmaking offers an endless array of masterpieces to explore. From the ground breaking works of the 60s French New Wave to modern gems, French films continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Dive into the poetic narratives, compelling characters, and artistic visuals that define this unique cinematic tradition.

Now, it’s your turn. Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and let yourself be transported to the enchanting world of French cinema!