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22 Best Movies Set In France That Will Transport You There

Looking for the best movies set in France to add to your watch list? From drama, and romance, to comedy, this list has all the best movies filmed in France.

France is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From its beautiful cities , and cute villages, to captivating landscapes, and not forgetting its charming capital, Paris, it’s no surprise that France has been a set for many movies.

However, if a holiday to France to see the magnificent sights in person isn’t on your calendar in the upcoming weeks, don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of the 22 best movies set in France that will transport you there.

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From drama, romance, and adventure, to thrillers, these movies not only show the streets of Paris but also other communes in France.

Whether you’re a Francophile who just loves everything French or you want a glimpse into the country before you visit, these movies based in France will mesmerize you.

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Best Movies Set in France

Watching movies filmed in France is a great way to get a glimpse of the country if you haven’t visited or even heal your nostalgia.

So, without further ado, here are some of the best movies set in France that have received numerous accolades and critical acclaim.

1. Les Intouchables/The Intouchables (2011)

Genre: Biography/Drama/Comedy

IMDB: 8.5/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 75%

Les Intouchables is a heartwarming tale with comedic moments inspired by a true story about an unexpected friendship that blossoms between a quadriplegic and his caregiver.

Philippe (François Cluzet) is a wealthy man left paralyzed after a paragliding accident who hires Driss (Omar Sy) as his caretaker.

Much as Driss’s initial plan was just to get a stamp to show that he was denied the job so that he can continue getting unemployment benefits, he ended up getting the job.

Although Philippe soon realizes that Driss is an ex-con, he chooses not to fire him as he is the only person that treats him normally without any pity.

Despite the fact that most of the film comprises indoor scenes, you get to see sights around France during Philippe and Driss’ adventures, including paragliding in the French Alps.

The film was so successful that it won a BAFTA award for Best Foreign Language Film, while Omar Sy won a César Award for Best Actor, after all, he is one of the best French actors . Up until 2014, it was the most-watched French film in the world.

2. Amélie (2001)

Genre: Romance/Drama

IMDB: 8.3/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 89%

Amélie , played by Audrey Tautou, a famous French actress explores 50+ sights across Paris in this feel-good rom-com, making it one of the best movies filmed in France, especially in the Parisian neighborhood of Montmartre.

Amélie battles with loneliness herself but makes it her life goal to make others happy. You’ll often find her improving the moods and lives of others from afar without wanting any recognition.

A true and selfless tale, Amélie will tug at your heartstrings and have you rooting for the titular character to find her happiness.

Besides its beautiful soundtrack and compelling story, Amélie will take you on a journey through Paris, especially in Montmartre .

Some of the filming locations you can easily recognize when you visit Paris include, Amélie’s work Place, Cafe des Deux Moulins which is still a functioning cafe in Paris , Rue Lepic, Abbesses Station, Gare de l’Est, and more.

The movie won 4 César Awards, including Best Film and Best Director, and 2 BAFTA Awards.

Apart from this, it received several other nominations, including at the Academy Awards. It’s also one of the best French movies recognized on the international scene.

With all these accolades in its pocket, it doesn’t come as a surprise that Amélie is one of the best movies set in France.

3. Ratatouille (2007)

Genre: Animated/Adventure/Comedy

IMDB: 8.1/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

Ratatouille is one of the best-animated movies based in France. It is one of the most impressive movies by Pixar’s studios and tells the story of Remy, a rat whose love for cooking takes him to Gusteau’s restaurant in Paris.

Remy’s (voice of Patton Oswalt) dream of becoming a renowned French chef comes to fruition with the help of Linguini (voice of Lou Romano), a kitchen worker who wants to keep his job.

The film pays a lot of attention to detail with regard to French food , especially Ratatouille, a traditional French meal that Remy and his counterpart try to perfect to impress critics.

Ratatouille has won an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature.

4. Before Sunset (2004)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94%

Before Sunset is the 2 nd installment in the Before trilogy, succeeding Before Sunrise and preceding Before Midnight . This film should not be missed if you want to watch some romantic movies set in France.

It has Jesse, played by Ethan Hawke, and Céline, played by Julie Delpy, as its lead pair. Jesse and Céline’s love story picks up in Paris, nine years after their romantic rendezvous in Venice.

Because of their catch-up session, we get a walking tour of the City of Love and its arrondissements.

The movie garnered accolades for Richard Linklater’s direction and Ethan and Julie’s chemistry, including an Oscar nomination for the writing (adapted screenplay).

5. La Haine/Hate (1995)

Genre: Crime/Drama

Rotten Tomatoes: 95%

La Haine follows a story of three men — Vinz, a Jewish man played by Vincent Cassel, Saïd, an Arab man played by Saïd Taghmaoui, and Hubert, a Black man played by Hubert Koundé who have grown up in the same French suburban ghetto.

Unlike other movies set in France that romanticize Paris and its neighborhoods, this one focuses on the daily struggles and racial profiling immigrants face in a poor immigrant-heavy neighborhood near Paris.

The film shows Police oppression and tensions in the community that leads to a series of unfortunate events that unfold in 24 hours.

La Haine was nominated for a Palme d’Or, while its director Mathieu Kassovitz won the Best Director Award at the 1995 Cannes Film Festival. It also won 3 César Awards and a Lumières Award for Best Film.

6. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

Portrayed in Brittany in Northern France, on an island called Saint-Pierre-Quiberon, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is one of the most impactful romantic movies set in France.

Marianne, a painter, has been commissioned to paint a wedding portrait of Héloïse, unbeknownst to her.

Marianne observes her muse during the day as her hired companion and paints at night. When she finishes the painting, she feels as though she is betraying her to give away her painting without her knowledge.

Fast forward, not to spoil the entire movie for you, the two fall in love and Héloïse agrees to pose for Marianne to be painted.

Besides this endearing love story, the movie also shows beautiful scenes on the island, and the landscape will transport you to the French countryside.

7. Midnight in Paris (2011)

Genre: Fantasy/Romance/Comedy

IMDB: 7.7/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

Midnight in Paris tells the tale of a writer who goes back in time every night at midnight to 1920s Paris and experiences life in that era.

It stars Owen Wilson in the titular role of Gil, the writer, accompanied by a star-studded supporting cast comprising Rachel McAdams, Kurt Fuller, Michael Sheen, Kathy Bates, Marion Cotillard, Léa Seydoux, Adrien Brody, Carla Bruni, and wait for it, Tom Hiddleston as F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Various other luminaries are characters in the movie, like Ernest Hemingway, Joséphine Baker, and Pablo Picasso.

The movie got critical acclaim and Woody Allen won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for Best Writing (Original Screenplay), while the movie got nominated for Best Film.

8. La Vie en Rose (2007)

Genre: Biography/Musical/Drama

IMDB: 7.6/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 74%

La Vie en Rose is the name of an iconic French song sung by famous French singer , Édith Piaf that catapulted her to being recognized as the national chanteuse of France.

The song’s popularity reached such heights that this biographical musical film was made based on her life played brilliantly by Marion Cotillard.

The movie takes us on a journey through Piaf’s life right from her messy childhood in Normandy, when she started singing at a club in Paris, to when she became a national emblem as a singer until her death bed.

Not only was Marion’s performance lauded, but she also won an Academy Award, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, a César Award, and a Lumières Award for Best Actress.

The film also won several awards, including an Academy Award, 3 BAFTA awards, and 4 César Awards, apart from being nominated for several others.

9. Pierrot le Fou (1965)

Genre: Crime/Romance/Drama

IMDB: 7.5/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 87%

Pierrot le Fou is based on a 1962 novel, Obsession by Lionel White. Ferdinand, played by Jean-Paul Belmondo, flees Paris with his ex-girlfriend Marianne, played by Anna Karina, leaving behind his wife and children, citing an unhappy marriage.

A series of mishaps ensues with the runaway couple hijacking a dead man’s car to get away from the gangsters that were following her.

They live a life on the run from thereon. The ending will answer the reasoning behind the title.

Out of all the movies set in the south of France, this one stands out as it showcases stunning scenes of Toulon and the French Riviera amidst the chaotic life of the 2 main characters.

10. Les Misérables (2012)

Genre: Musical/Romance/Drama

Rotten Tomatoes: 70%

Les Misérables , a musical period film set in Montfermeil and based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name, is a classic and one of the best movies about France. The original story is so famous that many adaptations have been made since then.

Hugh Jackman brilliantly plays the titular character of Jean Valjean, a French peasant pursuing a life of redemption.

The ensemble cast of Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, and Sacha Baron Cohen are all incredible as well.

The movie won multiple Academy, BAFTA, and Golden Globe Awards, on top of several Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.

11. Hugo (2011)

Genre: Adventure/Drama

Hugo eponymously titled, based on The Invention of Hugo Cabret book shows the life of a 12-year-old orphan (Asa Butterfield)) who lives at Gare Montparnasse, a train station in Paris.

The story follows his life as an orphan and how he navigates his new life and the challenges presented to him including theft and a new job that follows in his father’s footsteps as a clock maintainer.

Just like many of his other films, a movie directed by Martin Scorsese is bound to win a number of accolades.

For its visually stunning scenes and enthralling sounds, the movie won 5 Oscars and 2 BAFTA awards, on top of Martin grabbing a Golden Globe. It also received nominations in several other categories, including Best Film.

12. Beats Per Minute/120 BPM (120 battements par minute) (2017)

Genre: Drama

IMDB: 7.4/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 99%

Unlike other movies that take place in France, this moving drama is a film with a cause. Beats Per Minute is one of the best movies filmed in France about people with HIV AIDS living in Paris.

This thought-provoking movie has HIV AIDS youngsters fighting for something they believe in — to combat the deadly life-threatening immunodeficiency disease.

The film showcases members of the ACT UP Paris activist group trying to raise awareness and demand subsequent action from people in power.

With its moving story, it won six César and Lumières Awards, including Best Film, and a Grand Prix at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.

13. Chocolat (2000)

IMDB: 7.3/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 62%

Out of the movies based in France, this feel-good heart-warmer has Juliette Binoche playing a single mother who moves to a French village in Burgundy with her 6-year-old daughter and opens a chocolaterie.

At first, the villagers are skeptical due to her different way of life — non-married, non-religious, and always dressed in colorful clothes compared to the local women, but eventually, they warm up to her.

The film shows how the mother-daughter duo settles in their new life and make friends, but not with a chilling drama.

Alongside cast members like Johnny Depp and Judi Dench, Juliette Binoche shows off her incredible talent in this film.

Chocolat got nominated for Best Film, Best Actress for Juliette Binoche, and Best Supporting Actress for Judi Dench at the 2001 Academy Awards.

It also received nominations across various categories for the BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards, but unfortunately did not win any of them.

14. The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)

Genre: Comedy/Drama

Rotten Tomatoes: 68%

The Hundred-Foot Journey is an adaptation of a 2010 eponymous novel by Richard Morais of the same name.

The movie is set in the picturesque medieval town of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, located in the South of France.

It tells the tale of two competing restaurants across the street from each other — a Michelin-starred French restaurant and a family-owned Indian bistro.

Helen Mirren (Madame Mallory) owns Le Saule Pleureur, the upscale restaurant, while the other, called Maison Mumbai, is run by a Muslim family from Mumbai headed by Om Puri (Abbu Kadam).

How far will the rivalry go between these 2 restaurants? You have to watch it to find out!

And in case you’re wondering, the film’s name indicates the distance between the two restaurants which is 100 feet.

15. An American in Paris (1951)

IMDB: 7.2/10

An American in Paris is one of the best musical movies that take place in France. It stars Gene Kelly and debutante Leslie Caron.

Gene’s character is an artist (painter) named Jerry, while Leslie’s character, who plays his love interest as Lise, is already with someone else.

The movie is a mismatch of a musical and a tangled love story that sees Jerry falling for the girlfriend of his close friend, Lise, and him (Jerry) being admired by a wealthy woman who shows interest in both his art and him personally. Who will end up with who? I’ll let you find that out yourself.

The movie was nominated for 8 Academy Awards and won 6, including Best Picture. Aside from this, Gene Kelly won an Honorary Academy Award for the 17-minute-long choreography of the climactic ballet sequence.

16. Paris, Je T’aime (2006)

Genre: Romance/Drama/Comedy

Rotten Tomatoes: 86%

One of the best movies about France is Paris, Je T’aime , an anthology film that takes you through almost all the neighborhoods of Paris .

It comprises 18 short stories (initially supposed to be 20) representing 18 arrondissements of the City of Love with an ensemble cast starring Juliette Binoche, Natalie Portman, Willem Dafoe, Gaspard Ulliel, Miranda Richardson, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Aïssa Maïga, Elijah Wood, Olga Kurylenko, and Emily Mortimer, among others.

Apart from this, Gérard Depardieu not only directed one of the shorts but also acted in it.

The film was a nominee at the Cannes Film Festival of 2006 in the Un Certain Regard category.

17. La Piscine/The Swimming Pool (1969)

IMDB: 7.1/10

Filmed in the beautiful locales of Côte d’Azur in a villa perched atop a hill with mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean Sea, La Piscine is one of the most captivating movies set in the south of France.

It stars Alain Delon as Jean-Paul, Romy Schneider as Marianne and Jane Birkin as Pénélope.

The plot starts with Jean-Paul, a writer, and his girlfriend, Marianne, going on a vacation in the summer to their friend’s villa.

They’re later joined by Marianne’s ex-boyfriend, Harry, and his daughter, Pénélope, and what follows is a story of passion, jealousy, s*xual tensions, and even murder.

The movie was well-received and stood out for its daring and gripping tale.

18. Summer Hours (2008)

In Summer Hours , a family gathers for the matriarch’s 75 th birthday and news of her failing health.

The family home is a lovely estate with a vineyard on the outskirts of Paris, where her three children — two brothers and their sister, spent their childhoods.

They reminisce the good times shared while growing up and now have to decide how to relinquish family belongings, along with several precious items and priceless artifacts.

After her death, the 3 children don’t agree on what to do with their newly inherited estate. How will they handle this situation? You’ll have to watch the full drama as it unfolds.

The critically acclaimed film starring Juliette Binoche, Charles Berling, Jérémie Renier, and Edith Scob received numerous nominations at various Film Festivals.

19. Funny Face (1957)

Genre: Musical/Romance

Rotten Tomatoes: 88%

Starring legendary actress Audrey Hepburn and American actor-dancer Fred Astaire, Funny Face is one of the best musical romantic movies set in France with songs by the Gershwin brothers.

It tells the story of Maggie Prescott a fashion magazine editor that wants to launch a fresh face as the next top model, Dick Avery (Fred), a fashion photographer of the magazine, and Jo (Audrey), a shy bookshop assistant who becomes his muse.

Initially uninterested, Jo subsequently agrees because Dick agrees to help her realize her dream of seeing Paris and attend a philosophy lecture by a professor she idolizes.

During their time in Paris shooting at the city’s famous landmarks , Jo and Dick fall in love.

The movie received multiple Academy Award nominations and a Palme d’Or nomination at the 1957 Cannes Film Festival.

20. Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

Genre: Animated Musical/Drama

Rotten Tomatoes: 72%

For a movie released in the late 20 th century, The Hunchback of Notre Dame might be one of the best Disney animated movies based in France of that time.

It might not have gotten the recognition it deserves because of the underlying dark theme, but the portrayal of medieval France will give you quite the authentic experience, albeit on film.

You get to see many sights around the country in a period-accurate setting that you can visit on your next trip (except the actual inside of Notre Dame since it caught fire and is undergoing restoration).

21. Taxi (1998)

Genre: Action/Crime/Comedy

IMDB: 6.9/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 81%

Taxi is a French action-comedy starring Samy Naceri, Frédéric Diefenthal, and Marion Cotillard about a taxi driver (Samy) who agrees to drive around a police inspector (Frédéric) to be able to get back his driving license the policeman had taken from him due to a traffic law he had broken.

The police inspector, Émilien, is not taken seriously at work, so he wants to solve a high-profile robbery case involving a German gang with the help of the taxi driver, Daniel Morales.

All this plays out in the picturesque streets of Marseilles in the south of France.

The movie won 2 César Awards on top of receiving nominations for Best Film, Best Director, Best Music, and Most Promising Actor and Actress.

22. The Da Vinci Code (2006)

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

IMDB: 6.6/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 57%

The Da Vinci Code , starring Tom Hanks and Audrey Tatou as Robert Langdon and Sophie Neveu, respectively, is one of those movies that take place in France that gives you a comprehensive tour of the country like no other movie does.

Imagine getting an inside tour of The Louvre, for example. As a result, you get to explore Paris and some of its lesser-known sites.

The film shows Robert Langdon, a professor from Harvard university being pinned as the prime suspect in the murder of Louvre curator, Jacques Saunière.

What follows is the search for the Holy Grail which is believed to be in one of Leonardo da Vinci’s paintings.

The movie faces a lot of criticism, especially from the catholic church for its controversial display of biblical events that contradict what religion teaches.

If you’re searching for movies set in France on Netflix that have controversial theories, The Da Vinci Code is one not to miss.

Final Thoughts on the Best Movies Filmed in France

With a number of movies set in France, it can be hard to select a few, but I hope that my personal selection helps you cure your nostalgia or even inspire you to visit France soon.

From these 22 movies made in France, did any particular one(s) catch your attention? Have you watched any of them before? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

More Posts to Inspire You

• Most Famous French Singers
• 22 Best French TV Shows On Netflix You Should Watch

17 Most Famous French Writers Of All Time

• 17 Famous French Love Poems
• 7 Beautiful Poems About France You’ll Love

14 Famous French Poems That Will Mesmerize You

• 17 Famous French Love Songs
• 17 Famous French Songs
• 19 Best Songs About Paris

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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39 Movies That Will Transport You to Paris

By Caitlin Morton

Paris has inspired every type of artist over the years, from Impressionist painters to literary giants. But the city perhaps shines the brightest on the big screen, serving as the backdrop to countless movies over the past century. Even before French directors like Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut launched a cinematic movement in the 1960s, Hollywood showcased the beauty of Paris in breezy musicals and romances. And since then, we've seen the city shine in animated films, white-knuckle thrillers, gritty biopics, and more. Regardless of the genre, one thing's for sure: The City of Light sure knows how to steal a scene. From Amélie to Ratatouille , here are 39 movies that will transport you to Paris—no plane ticket required.

Amélie (2001)

When I think of Paris on film, I think of scenes from Amélie . The quirky 2001 romantic comedy follows the titular character, played by Audrey Tautou, as she flits around her hometown of Paris, observing strangers around her. Though she's struggling with her own loneliness, she becomes fixated on improving the lives of others, often from afar and with no recognition. The feel-good film was supposedly filmed in over 80 locations throughout the city, so it alone is a whimsical trip through the City of Light. —Megan Spurrell, associate editor

Watch now: Buy from $16, amazon.com

Alphaville (1965)

The genius of Jean-Luc Godard’s hard-boiled dystopian sci-fi flick from 1965 is that it uses the Paris of its day to create a world that feels utterly unlike the place we think of as Paris, then and now. Shooting at night, Godard used the glassy Modernist high-rises of La Défense and other then-new developments on the outskirts of the city to depict the cold, computer-run autocracy of Alphaville, a Brave New World sort of place into which a Humphrey Bogart-ish American detective (played by Eddie Constantine) must go to seek the people’s freedom. The marriage between noir and science fiction that Godard achieved here is one that numerous other filmmakers would seek to replicate, with Ridley Scott in Blade Runner being perhaps the greatest example. — Jesse Ashlock, U.S. editor

Watch now: Rent from $4, amazon.com

An American in Paris (1951)

The dancing in An American in Paris is unparalleled. A 17-minute-long, dialogue-free ballet so well choreographed by the one and only Gene Kelly that the Oscars gave him an all-encompassing Academy Honorary Award? It doesn’t get better than that. The film, set to Gershwin music, follows Kelly as an American painter in Paris as he navigates love with the taken Lise Bouvier (played by the impeccable Leslie Caron in her film debut). The set pieces are out of this world and the dance numbers often hold more people than you can count on screen. Just take the aforementioned climactic dance sequence: it was filmed across 44 MGM backlot sets and covers a swath of French art history, with nods to Toulouse-Lautrec, Renoir, and more in the sets and costumes. It is, in my mind, a perfect movie.  —Meredith Carey, associate editor

Watch now: Rent from $3, amazon.com

Anastasia (1997)

Fair warning: I still feel creepy-crawlies when I see animated Rasputin and his bat sidekick Bartok. But this very fictional tale about Anastasia Nikolaevna’s disappearance is worth the goosebumps. (Rasputin allegedly starts the Russian Revolution by selling his soul and putting a curse on the Romanovs so, again, very fictional.) It follows an amnesiac teenage Anastasia after she barely escapes the Revolution and winds up in a rural Russian orphanage, unaware of her royalty. She’s then whisked away to Paris by a duo hoping to pass her off as the “real” Anastasia and cash in on her grandmother’s bounty. It’s an animated musical caper that’s sure to bring both St. Petersburg and Paris alive on screen.  —M.C.

Watch now: Free with HBO Now subscription ; rent from $4, itunes.com

Shannon McMahon

Charley Ward

Hannah Towey

Madison Flager

BPM (Beats Per Minute) (2017)

This moving French film follows the Parisian chapter ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) in the 1990s as its young activists grapple with the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It’s an incredibly well-rounded movie, with a history of the group in Paris and a look into the fictional lives of its members, including a mix of HIV-positive and -negative Parisian twentysomethings. You can’t finish without having a greater understanding and deep sense of grief for this generation of LGBTQ+ folx—in Paris and beyond. (If you need another push to watch, it won the Grand Prix at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival .) —M.C.

Watch now: Free with Hulu subscription ; rent from $4, amazon.com

Before Sunset (2004)

If you don't ship Jesse and Céline, what are you even doing with your life? Before Sunset is the second installment in Richard Linklater's dreamy trilogy following the relationship between Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Deply), following 1995's Before Sunrise . After meeting on a train and sharing a night together in Vienna in the first film, the couple's lives intersect once again, nine years later in Paris. The dialogue is clever and poignant as you follow the pair on a walk around the city, meandering through the Marais district of the 4th arrondissement, Le Pure Café in the 11th arrondissement, and the Promenade Plantée park in the 12th arrondissement . Paris is the perfect backdrop to the film's reflection on fate and how one decision begets another (or eliminates one altogether). And if the credits roll and your heart is a mess and you can't quite part with Jesse and Céline, you're in luck: You can catch their final act in Before Midnight (2013), released—you guessed it—nine years after Before Sunset. —Lara Kramer, senior manager, audience development

Belle de Jour (1967)

Belle de Jour belongs to a vast and highly problematic canon of films made by men that purport to reveal the secret sexual world of women, one to which virtually every important European director of the second half of the 20th century has contributed. Still, this director—Spanish great Luis Buñuel—was one of the smartest and the slyest, and Belle de Jour serves as one of his many clever critiques of ruling-class manners and hypocrisies. Starring Catherine Deneuve at the height of her ice-queen phase as a proper young surgeon’s wife who secretly works in a brothel, Belle de Jour portrays Paris as a place of elegant scrims that serve only to obscure the raging id of the respectable people who walk its streets. —J.A.

Breathless (1960)

If I come out of quarantine with a questionable DIY pixie cut in the style of Jean Seberg, blame Breathless . Released back in 1960, the classic Jean-Luc Godard movie, which follows a car thief named Michel who flees to Paris after shooting a man in Marseilles (and tries to convince Seberg's character to subsequently run away to Rome with him), changed French cinema for good and cemented Seberg as an eternal style icon. But it also serves as a mesmerizing tour of Paris, with Godard taking us through the city's narrow streets, along its boulevards, and inside its cafés . The overt sexism of Michel's character has not aged well, but there's still plenty to love about this classic—and Paris sure looks good in it. — Lale Arikoglu, senior lifestyle editor

Watch now: Rent from $4, itunes.com

Casablanca (1942)

While most of Casablanca takes place in, well, Casablanca, Paris occupies a very important few minutes of the film. Shown as a flashback montage, the city is the backdrop to Rick (played by Humphrey Bogart) and Ilsa's (played by Ingrid Bergman) whirlwind romance, complete with drives on the Champs-Élysées, ballroom dancing, and lots of champagne and passionate kisses. The carefree scenes contrast sharply with the wartime politics of the rest of the movie, but it helps viewers understand the love affair that is etched throughout one of the greatest films of all time. And, of course, it also brought us one of the most memorable lines in cinematic history: “We'll always have Paris.” —Caitlin Morton, contributing editor

Charade (1963)

There is a lot going on in Charade . There’s a couple murders, a missing $250,000 in gold, a CIA investigation, catfishing even Nev Schulman would be wowed by, and—of course—a romance. Add the chemistry between Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn into the mix, and a backdrop of Paris, and you’ve got one bang-up film. There’s also a character named Tex Panthollow, which certainly adds to the humor of this Hitchcockian whodunit (helmed by Funny Face and Singing in the Rain director Stanley Donen). —M.C.

Watch now: Free with Amazon Prime

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

To prepare my husband for his first-ever visit to Paris, we decided to rewatch The Da Vinci Code . I love a good mystery movie, and if there's a better way to get a lay of the land of the Louvre , I don't know about it. The museum trivia scattered throughout the movie made our visit even more interesting, especially when we finally had the chance to see the famous Da Vinci paintings in person. —Stephanie Wu, articles director

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

For most of The Devil Wears Prada , this comedy-drama is as New York as it gets . You have the young assistant, played by Anne Hathaway, working at the glossy magazine under an infamous editor-in-chief, in what some (me) consider the performance of a lifetime by Meryl Streep. But the entire film builds up to a series of scenes set that take place during Fashion Week in Paris, where major drama and revelations unfold—and frankly, the effect wouldn't be the same in any other city. —M.S.

The 400 Blows (1959)

It doesn’t seem so revolutionary today, but in 1959, this beautiful, sympathetic portrayal of troubled early adolescence—which announced François Truffaut and the French New Wave to the world—represented a noisy break from the staid customs of French filmmaking, with its jump cuts and naturalistic acting. More than sixty years later, Paris still feels so alive under cinematographer Henri Decaë’s restless, roaming lens, from the Eiffel Tower to the seedy streets of Montmartre. The first in a series of five semi-autobiographical films Truffaut would make featuring the central character of Antoine Doinel, it is one of the greatest movies about boyhood ever made. —J.A.

Funny Face (1957)

While searching for the next great fashion model, photographer Dick Avery (played by Fred Astaire) stumbles upon shy, philosophizing Jo Stockton (played by Audrey Hepburn) working in a bookstore—and her “funny face” ends up being exactly what the fashion industry has been looking for. The two jet off to Paris and shoot glamorous photos at some of the city's most famous landmarks , sing and dance to a soundtrack by George and Ira Gershwin, and even rub elbows with some beatnik philosophers at an underground café. Funny Face is easily one of the most fashionable movies of all time, and Fred and Audrey (and Paris, for that matter) have never been quite so charming. —C.M.

Gigi (1958)

Set in the Belle Époque era of the early 1900s, this Vincente Minnelli-directed musical tells the story of the friendship between Gigi (played by Leslie Caron), a precocious courtesan-in-training, and Gaston (played by Louis Jourdan), a rich playboy. As Gigi grows up and learns about the realities of courtship, the once-platonic friendship begins to evolve into something more romantic. The storyline is definitely a bit sexist and creepy by today's standards (the song “Thank Heaven for Little Girls” will never not be weird to me), but the costumes, dancing, and pure Parisian elegance help make Gigi an eternal classic. —C.M.

La Haine (1995)

Award-winning La Haine (which translates to “Hate”) is as relevant now as it was when it was first released in 1995. Filmed in black and white and starring an incredibly young Vincent Cassel, it's a violent, at times hard to watch, portrayal of social divisions in France, tracing the lives of three men who live in one of the housing projects that line the outskirts of Paris. It won't inspire any so-called wanderlust, but it will challenge you, and (hopefully) force you to ask important questions about the society we live in right now. —L.A.

How to Steal a Million (1966)

Charles Bonnet (played by Hugh Griffith) is a renowned art collector living in Paris who, unbeknownst to the public, replicates and sells famous works of art for a hefty price. When one of his forged statues unwittingly ends up in a major Parisian museum , he enlists his daughter, Nicole (played by Audrey Hepburn), and cat burglar Simon Dermott (played by Peter O'Toole) to steal the statue back before everyone finds out that his collection is a fraud. How to Steal a Million might just be Hepburn's coolest Paris movie, with a jazzy soundtrack by John Williams, wardrobe by Givenchy, and undeniable chemistry with O'Toole. —C.M.

Hugo (2011)

Hugo isn’t a movie about traipsing through Paris—instead, we see bits and pieces of the city through the titular character’s eyes. Hugo, a 12-year-old orphan, lives in the clocktower at Gare Montparnasse railway station and seldom leaves. Instead, he peers out at the city’s most famous landscapes from up above as he tinkers with his late father’s automaton and continues to run the clocks after his uncle goes missing. (He does occasionally venture out, including one adventure to the Hogwarts-like Sainte-Geneviève Library.) Set in the 1930s, the Martin Scorsese-directed movie is visually stunning, with elaborate sets and all the interesting sounds you'd expect of a train station, which helped it to win five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Cinematography, and Best Visual Effects. It’s also full of heart, small dogs, and a goofy Sacha Baron Cohen who’s constantly out to get Hugo. —Madison Flager, commerce editor

Watch now: Free with Netflix subscription ; rent from $4, amazon.com

Inception (2010)

Dom Cobb (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) is a thief who is able to steal secrets from people's dreams. After he receives an assignment to plant an idea in someone's mind through dream-travel, he assembles a literal dream team, including architect Ariadne (played by Elliot Page), who helps him create labyrinthine “dreamscapes." (The rest of the insanely complex plot is impossible to explain here, so I recommend you just go ahead and watch it.) One of Inception 's best scenes occurs when Cobb helps Ariadne test out her skills, watching in awe as she folds the streets of Paris to a 90-degree angle and creates a bridge that seems to go on forever—the latter of which was filmed at the real-life Bir-Hakeim Bridge in Paris. It's certainly not how we're used to seeing the French capital portrayed on film, but it's still the stuff that dreams about dreams about dreams are made of. —C.M.

Irréversible (2002)

The violence associated with this art house horror made it controversial upon release in 2002. Irréversible is shocking for sure, but the narrative techniques employed by director Gaspar Noé to tell the story, such as reversed chronology and chaotic cinematography, help turn a film anchored by a brutal rape in a Paris metro tunnel into an experiment in storytelling. Worth watching for those interested in raw, complex human stories—and those who can tolerate being uncomfortable.  —Erin Florio, travel news director

La Jetée (1962)

While serving as a test subject for scientific experiments (specifically relating to time travel) in post-apocalyptic Paris, a man obsessively fixates on a moment from his childhood when he witnessed someone die on the jetty ("la jetée") at Orly Airport. The man hops around through time, both into the past and the far future, until he finally learns the truth about his obsessive memory—which I won't dare spoil for you here. The 28-minute film is unlike anything else on this list, primarily because it's constructed entirely out of still photographs (aside from one moving image, which is at once refreshing and incredibly unnerving) and plays out like a slideshow being projected in a quiet room. La Jetée is also famous for directly inspiring the 1995 science fiction film 12 Monkeys , which earned Brad Pitt his first Oscar nomination. —C.M.

Jules et Jim (1962)

It's honestly hard for me to talk or write about this movie without getting teary-eyed, but here goes. The third full-length feature from New Wave director François Truffaut, Jules et Jim tells the tale of the decades-long friendship between Austrian introvert Jules (played by Oskar Werner) and French extrovert Jim (played by Henri Serre). The two meet during the carefree days Paris before World War I, write letters to each other while fighting on opposite sides of the war, and continue to see each other in the years following the war—all while engaging in a fraught love triangle with free-spirited Catherine, played with perfectly masked sadness by Jeanne Moreau. (Do yourself a favor and watch her sing "Le Tourbillon" from the soundtrack, which is currently one of my most-played songs on Spotify.) But even with Moreau stealing every scene she's in, it's the titular friendship that will make you melt—right up to the absolutely heartbreaking final scene, set in Paris. (Uh oh, here come the tears.) I don't watch Jules et Jim too often, but it's a film that will be forever etched in my memory. —C.M.

Julie & Julia (2009)

When bored and frustrated Julie Powell (played by Amy Adams) gets fed up with her life in New York, she decides to prepare all 524 recipes from Julia Childs's Mastering the Art of French Cooking . Her culinary project is intercut with scenes of how Julia Child (played by Meryl Streep) herself learned to master the art of French cooking , including strolls through Parisian markets and a whole lot of butter. Julie & Julia was Nora Ephron's final film before her death in 2012, and serves as a lovely tribute to the director's trademark wit and warmth. Plus, if this movie doesn't inspire you to spend all day making a big pot of beef bourguignon, then I don't know what will. —C.M.

Les Misérables (2012)

Much like the plot of Victor Hugo's source novel, Les Misérables tells the redemption story of Jean Valjean, a French peasant who serves 19 years in jail after stealing bread for his sister's starving child. Valjean steals a bishop's candlesticks shortly after receiving parole, but the bishop's mercy inspires him to set out on a journey to live a good and honest life—a journey that throws him among an obsessive police inspector, a single mother on the verge of death, and young idealists fighting during a revolution in Paris. While nothing quite compares to seeing Les Mis (my personal favorite musical) on stage, this 2012 film adaptation is the next best thing. Hugh Jackman does a fine job in the role of Jean Valjean, and the supporting cast gets through the rest of the score with no love lost (the exception being poor Russell Crowe, whose portrayal of antagonist Javert is bad to the point of being comical). Regardless of how you watch it, I think you'll find that the political commentary and questions of morality in Les Misérables are as relevant today as they were in 19th-century France. —C.M.

Marie Antoinette (2006)

Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette is as memorable for its soundtrack as it is for the gorgeous costumes and razor-sharp depiction of the politics and gossip that once swirled through Versailles . Yet the movie, starring Kirstin Dunst and Jason Schwartzman, was initially dismissed by critics as teenage fluff (much like history has done with Antoinette herself) when it was first released in 2006. Thankfully, it has stood the test of time and emerged as a cult classic that transports you straight to the palace's grand ballrooms and manicured gardens, and acutely captures what it's like to be a teenage girl—regardless of what century you might be in. —L.A.

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

I will never get tired of this movie. Period, the end. A technicolor Baz Luhrmann masterpiece, the movie follows Satine (played by Nicole Kidman), a terminally ill star at Paris’s iconic Moulin Rouge , and her clandestine love affair with Christian (played by Ewan McGregor). A musical of epic proportions, Moulin Rouge! mixes pop songs we all know and love (I still get shivers when I hear the Argentine tango rendition of The Police’s “Roxanne”) and originals like “Come What May.” It’s set in Montmartre and at the Moulin Rouge itself, and while it doesn’t showcase many iconic sights outside of the occasional background view of the Eiffel Tower, it’s an absolutely over-the-top delight. And when you’re done, pop on the soundtrack from the recent Broadway stage musical—which threw even more modern songs in the mix.  —M.C.

Watch now: Free with HBO Now subscription ; rent from $4, amazon.com

Paris, Je T'aime (2006)

Willem Dafoe. Natalie Portman. Alfonso Cuarón. Gus Van Sant. Oh, and Paris . Everyone gets a little something in this 2006 anthology film, which calls on 22 directors to oversee 18 plotlines, all set in different arrondissements throughout the City of Light. In the Coen brothers’ “Tuileries,” Steve Buscemi falls into a lovers’ tangle when he accidentally makes eye contact with one of the parties; in “Quartier des Enfants Rouges,” Maggie Gyllenhaal is an American actress who catches feelings for her drug dealer. The stories are sometimes extraordinary (there's one about vampires), though in most cases, they’re given their emotional power purely by drawing on the everydayness of life—and the often-random connections we make. But it’s witnessing that kaleidoscope of human experience, all against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, that makes this a film to return to again and again. —Betsy Blumenthal, associate editor

Paris When It Sizzles (1964)

After selling a script idea to a big Hollywood producer, screenwriter Richard Benson (played by William Holden) spends most of his writing time gallivanting around Paris. When he suddenly finds himself close to the deadline with zero pages written, he hires an assistant named Gabrielle Simpson (Audrey Hepburn), who helps him write a love story by acting out all the romantic scenarios with him. Much to no one's surprise, the two eventually start to develop a real-life love story of their own, all set to the backdrop of Paris. Paris When It Sizzles is flighty but fun, and the chemistry between Holden and Hepburn is always a delight to see play out on the big screen. —C.M.

Passport to Paris (1999)

This movie may not rise to the top of the pantheon of movies filmed in Paris, but it was a major turning point for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's Hollywood career. Their first international film is about a spring break trip to Paris, where they stay with their grandfather, the U.S. ambassador to France . It features all of Paris's most popular sites—the Eiffel Tower , Notre Dame, Jardin du Luxembourg—but also ordering mishaps, bad accents, and boys on mopeds. Passport to Paris 's real legacy, however, is that it shows the twins growing up, with their first-ever on-screen kisses. —S.W.

The Phantom of the Opera (2004)

Somehow, nearly all of my suggestions for this gallery are musicals, so of course The Phantom of the Opera has to be among them. This rendition, which follows Andrew Lloyd Webber's 1986 musical of the same name in near lockstep, stars Gerard Butler as the living, breathing phantom haunting a Parisian opera house and Emmy Rossum as Christine, the opera’s new lead actress. The usual Phantom madness ensues, with operatic sabotage, a love triangle, an underground lair in the Parisian catacombs, and lots and lots of deep, dramatic stares.  —M.C.

The Pink Panther franchise (1963-1976)

The entire Peter Sellers-backed Pink Panther series (which includes five films: The Pink Panther , A Shot in the Dark , The Return of the Pink Panther , The Pink Panther Strikes Again , and Revenge of the Pink Panther ) is one of the most delightful film franchises of the 20th century, thanks in large part to some crazy plot lines and Sellers's impeccable comedic timing. The series follows the antics of inept French police inspector Jacque Clouseau (played by Sellers) as he tries to recover the ever-elusive Pink Panther diamond, taking him all around the world—including to Paris on several occasions. If seeing Clouseau fumble on the streets of Paris isn't French enough for you, then Sellers's ridiculous French accent should certainly do the trick. —C.M.

Ratatouille (2007)

Ratatouille might just be the movie that, to me, best captures the spirit of Paris. The filmmakers spent a week there, visiting sights and eating at famous restaurants, in order to bring the city to life through animation . Between the stunning scenes and the score, Ratatouille embodies the romance, the culinary history, and the ineffable feeling of opportunity in the French capital. It also manages the incredible feat of making animated food look absolutely delicious. —S.W.

Watch now: Free with Disney+ subscription ; rent from $4, amazon.com

The Red Balloon (1956)

The only short film to ever win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, Albert Lamorisse's The Red Balloon tells the simple story of a young boy who befriends a red balloon—one that seems to have a mind of its own—and follows it through the streets of Paris. By the time the 38-minute movie comes to an end, you'll become completely enamoured with the strange friendship and view the balloon as a living, breathing human being—sort of like a mix between E.T. and Up . The final few minutes of the movie are about as magical as it gets, and show off the skyline of Paris quite beautifully. —C.M.

Sabrina (1954)

One of Audrey Hepburns earliest starring roles, Sabrina Fairchild is the shy, moon-eyed daughter of the Larabee family's chauffeur, who watches the lives of her father's rich employers while hiding in trees or gazing out her window. After a failed suicide attempt, Sabrina attends culinary school in Paris for two years, where she chops off her hair, gets a chic new wardrobe, and learns how to make the perfect soufflé. When she returns home post-makeover, she attracts the attention of both Larabee sons (played by William Holden and Humphrey Bogart), with the dramatic love triangle propelling the rest of the film's plot. I'd lie if I say watching Sabrina as a child didn't make me long to escape off to Paris myself, if only to come back with a show-stopping Givenchy ball gown and precious lap dog of my own. Hey, it still could happen. —C.M.

Three Colors: Blue (1993)

The first—and best—of Polish director Krzysztof Kieślowski's Colors series, a three-film exploration of the French revolutionary principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, Blue tackles the first topic through the lens of the individual. That individual, played by Juliette Binoche, is a grieving wife whose unexpected freedom comes after her daughter and the composer husband to whom she has subjugated herself are killed in a car accident. In an attempt to sever ties with her former life, she leaves the countryside and moves to Paris, rendered by Kieslowski in ravishingly formal, somber tones, only to find out, as so many film characters have, that just because you’re done with the past doesn’t mean the past is done with you. —J.A.

Taken (2008)

While so many of the movies on this list celebrate the architecture and beauty of Paris, only one properly destroys it: Taken . Join Liam Neeson and his particular set of skills on a rampage through the City of Love in pursuit of his daughter, who as the title aptly suggests, has been taken by a gang of sex traffickers. Pierre Morel, a French filmmaker whose resume also includes From Paris with Love , directs rapid-fire action sequences that take you on a tour through (sometimes literally) Paris's most recognized landmarks . The result is a movie that is endlessly watchable, enjoyably quotable, and just plain badass. —L.K.

The Triplets of Belleville (2003)

Full disclaimer: Just a fraction of this surrealist animation film takes place in Paris. But Gaulish reference points throughout the movie (the Tour de France; a style that recalls 1930s Montmartre) help maintain a sense of the place. While rescuing her cyclist grandson from kidnappers, an elderly, feisty heroine finds herself in the knock-off city of Belleville, and is taken in by a trio of eccentric old performers. The film charms and chills, dipping into dark corners before reaching chuckle-worthy highs. There is very little dialogue but an energized direction and catchy soundtrack means it doesn't even matter. The swirling animation, creepy and brilliant, will stay with you long after closing credits.  —E.F.  

La Vie en Rose (2007)

If you've ever watched a movie that takes place in Paris, chances are you've heard at least a few strains of “La Vie en Rose,” the city's unofficial anthem and the song that made Édith Piaf a musical icon. La Vie en Rose , featuring Marion Cotillard in her Oscar-winning lead role, shows non-linear snippets of the French singer's life and rise to fame, taking place all throughout Paris (including a climactic performance at the Olympia music hall). The costumes, makeup, and set designs of the 2007 biopic are all fantastic, but the real reason to watch La Vie en Rose is to watch Cotillard's mesmerizing, uncanny performance—just get ready to play the soundtrack on repeat for the next few weeks. —C.M.

The Dreamers (2003)

Thirty years after  Last Tango in Paris ,  famed Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci returned with another steamy drama set in the City of Love. This one, which takes place during the student riots of 1968, is sweeter than its predecessor, serving as an homage not only to Paris itself but also to the maelstrom of passions and ideas that young people have sought out there since time immemorial. Watch it on a double bill with  Regular Lovers ,  another story of young love against the backdrop of the ’68 riots starring Louis Garrell, released two years later and directed by Louis’s father, legendary French director Philippe Garrell. — J.A.

Watch now: Free with Max Go subscription, play.maxgo.com

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The Best Movies About France to Watch Before Your Trip

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It is always the right time to be planning a trip to France! We have gathered the best movies about France to watch before your trip. One of the most enjoyable ways to prepare for your French adventures is to explore the country through films. French cinema is world renowned and we’ve included some of the best in this collection, all with English subtitles. We have rounded out our list with some fantastic movies in English that were filmed in France. They will all help enhance your future trips and keep you entertained from home while you craft your itinerary. 

I have asked fellow travel writers to share the films they most recommend to friends who are preparing for trips to France. All of these films are available to stream on Amazon Prime and many are also available on Netflix, Kanopy, and other streaming services.  Queue up your top picks and enjoy your French travels from home!

Jump to Your Favorties

Table of contents, the best movies set in france.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Language: French ( 2007) PG-13

This mesmerizing drama was directed by famed American painter and filmmaker Julian Schnabel. Based on Jean-Dominique Bauby’s bestselling memoir, The Diving Bell and The Butterfly received four Oscar nominations and ranks in the BBC’s 100 Greatest Films of the 21st Century.

At 43, Jean-Dominique Bauby has it all: wealth, health, and a glamorous life as the Parisian editor of Elle magazine when he is suddenly paralyzed by a massive stroke. He wakes up after weeks in a coma in a hospital in the northern French seaside town of Berck. 

Bauby can hear and see perfectly but cannot move or speak, a condition known as locked-in syndrome. The only thing Bauby can do is blink his left eyelid. With great effort, he learns to blink in an alphabet code and thus dictate his extraordinary memoir.

Rather than being depressing, the film is joyful and inspiring. It takes us through a moving tour of Bauby’s memories and imagination. The settings include Paris and Lourdes and the windswept dunes and wide sandy beaches of France’s northern coast.

Internationally known actor Mathieu Almaric plays Bauby. Max Von Sydow delivers a riveting performance as his frail, heartbroken father.

Watch this poignant and fascinating film for beautiful visuals not just of Paris, but of Lourdes and France’s northern beaches. It is also a favorite among French learners .

  Contributed by Ingrid at Second-Half Travels.

Les Choristes

Language: French (2004) PG- 13

Les Choristes is a heart-warming film set in France about the healing power of music and the change a teacher can bring to the lives of their students. The film has even been nominated as the French entry in the Academy Awards for the Best Foreign Language Film. 

Les Choristes (also known as The Chorus) is a French film about a kind and gifted music teacher who brings a change in the students at a severely administered boys’ boarding school. He works positively with the effect of music on the lives of students. The film was set at the Chateau de Ravel in Puy-de-Dome, France. 

The film is directed by Christophe Bartatier and it stars Gerard Jugnot as Clement Mathieu and Francois Berleand as Rachin. This beautifully directed movie shows that music can bring a great change in people’s lives. Since the film is surrounded by music and the relationship between teacher and students, the music lovers and teachers will especially enjoy it.

Les Choristes reflects the French melancholie and gives you a better understanding of what France looked like 40 years ago. Indeed, the country has changed a lot over the last decades and Les Choristes will be a sentimental journey back to France’s past. It is a must-watch movie before visiting France on a vacation.  

Contributed by Paulina at Paulina on the Road

French Kiss

Language: English (1995) PG-13

French Kiss is the perfect rainy Sunday afternoon 90’s rom-com. Set in stunning and uber-romantic Paris and the South of France, we follow neurotic Kate (Meg Ryan) whose fiancé has just declared that he has fallen in love with another woman. Kate journeys to France in an effort to win him back, meeting Luc (Kevin Kline) a wily rogue who agrees to help her win Kate’s fiancé back. Of course, Luc has an ulterior motive, but will his heart win over his dastardly plans?

Whilst the story is wonderful and whimsical, the real showstopper is the scenery. With locations in Paris and Provence, viewers can enjoy lush scenes in vineyards and rustic French country homes. Provence is known for its fields of purple lavender and superb Rosé wines that are produced in the region. The film concludes in Cannes, a city mostly known for its very famous film festival. Cannes sits on the Mediterranean Sea and has a wonderful promenade lined with opulent hotels and restaurants.

French Kiss treats viewers to a journey from Paris to the South of France and, of course, to two strangers who fall in love. If you love 90’s rom-coms and France, I can’t think of a more perfect movie than French Kiss.

Contributed by Missy at Travels with Missy 

Mr and Mme Adelman

Language: French (2017) R

Mr and Mme Adelman is a clever, witty, and complex film about a captivating couple. We journey with them from their first meeting until a death 45 years later. It is daring in that it tells a story of over four decades with plenty of unexpected twists, laugh-out-loud scenes, and fascinating character development. 

The film was written by co-stars and real-life couple Doria Tillier and Nicolas Bedos, so there is an authenticity and connection that brings the film to life. Bedos also directs the film, and his character might strike some as too like the real-life director.

Spanning 45 years, we see the drama of the couple’s relationship unfold against the backdrop of French news and culture from 1971 through to the present. There is chemistry, beauty, and excitement in their early years; drugs, children, and confusion as the years go on; and a much more mature and tender love by the end of the film.  All of this is intertwined with the life of a famous writer– their inspirations and how they are received by the mercurial public. Expect to be surprised and moved as you watch. 

If you are traveling to France, you will enjoy seeing the modern history that is laced throughout the film and it may inspire you to learn about major events and people. You will also enjoy scenes in Paris and Étretat that will inspire you to want to visit. 

Erica at Trip Scholars

The Best Movies Set In Paris

Les Misérables

Language: English (2012) PG-13

Victor Hugo’s Les Miserable is one of the greatest novels of the 19th century, some may have read the book in school but most probably know the story about human struggle because of the West End musical and the 2012 movie starring Hugh Jackman, Russel Crowe, and Anne Hathaway, who won a Best Supporting Oscar for her portrayal of Fantine. 

The story starts when Jean Valjean is released from prison and skips parole. Valjean is a kind man who has rotten luck and is relentlessly pursued by Javert, a policeman who is determined to bring him back to prison. Even though Valjean is able to reinvent himself time and time again, he is not safe from Valjean. Intertwined in the plot is Fantine, a factory worker who eventually resorts to prostitution to support her daughter, Cosette, who is being cared for by the Thenadier family. Eventually, Fantine dies and Valjean buys Cosette’s freedom before they run to Paris to get away from Javert. Fast forward a couple of years to the time of the June Rebellion of 1832 where the plot intensifies and takes unexpected turns. 

Les Misérables talks about a point in French history where Parisians rose up against the monarchy. In Paris, visitors can go to the Musée des Égouts de Paris (Paris Sewer Museum) to imagine where Valjean hid from Javert during the revolution or visit the Luxembourg Gardens, where Cosette met Marius whom she marries, or sit on one of the benches in the Champ de Mars like Valjean and take in the scenery. 

Contributed by Bernadette at Explorer Chick

Language: French (2001) R

Amelie is the kind of movie that will make you want to travel to Paris as soon as you watch it. The movie tells the story of Amelie (actress Audrey Tatou), a 20-something girl who lives and works in Montmartre. She spends her days on a mission to make the lives of those surrounding her better – from her father, who she pushes to be more adventurous; to her co-worker, who she manages to match with a client of the café where she works. She also goes on a mission to play tricks and pranks to people who misbehave in the neighborhood – such as the greengrocer who regularly humiliates his disabled employee. 

Most importantly, Amelie is on a mission to find who the mystery man who abandoned a book of passport-size photos by a photo booth is. Finding him marks the beginning of romance, with motorbike rides around the city. 

Amelie is a great, feel-good movie and the soundtrack is fabulous. Watching it, you will be able to admire some of the most iconic places in Montmartre, which you will be able to visit, too!

Contributed by Claudia Tavani at My Adventures Across The World

Julie and Julia

Language: English (2009) PG-13

Julie and Julia highlights beautiful and tasty food from France . French cuisine combines unique techniques with the fresh ingredients that come from local farms and markets. The movie shows the joy of cooking and eating delicious French food.

In the film, Julie Powell decides to cook her way through Julia Child’s “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” in one year. While Julie learns how to make French dishes with the help and guidance from Julia Child’s book, we learn about both Julias’ lives. 

The movie beautifully presents Julia Child’s love and admiration for French food. Together with the Julias, we learn about Paris in the fifties and how to cook 365 dishes in 365 days.

This movie can teach you about French culture and give you some pointers on what to order at restaurants or dishes to try at home. It will also tell you the secret of delicious French dishes… butter!

Contributed by Ania from The Travelling Twins

Language: French (1960) NR 

No collection of French films would be complete without including Breathless. It is often recognized as one of the top twenty films ever made and was powerfully influential. It is the first feature length film written and directed by Jean-Luc Godard; it was the breakthrough film for Jean-Paul Belmondo, who stars as Michel; and it co-stars Jean Seberg in one of her most appreciated roles as Patricia. Breathless is one of the early and influential French New Wave films and helped to change the industry.

Michel is a thief who flees from Marseilles to Paris and kills a police officer on his way. He hides out with Patricia, who is an aspiring American journalist. The story takes them around quintessentially hip 1960 Paris with a standout beatnik jazz soundtrack. Breathless broke all of the rules when it was released and made way for the cinema we are all familiar with today. To fully appreciate the film, we need to see it within historical context. The jump cuts, the lingering scenes that don’t drive the plot, the filming with hand-held cameras– they were all revolutionary. 

It is a great film to watch before your trip to France because it highlights the powerful French influence on cinematography. It will also leave you longing to wander down the Champs-Élysées and the other Parisian landmarks that fill the scenes. 

Language: French (1995) NR

La Haine is a must watch film for everyone who wants to see beyond sentimentalized and romantic views of Paris. The title is taken from a line of one of the main characters, Hubert, “la haine attire la haine!”, “hatred breeds hatred!” We follow three friends in the 24 hours after the police have severely wounded a young Arab man from the projects of Paris and the city erupts in riots.

La Haine was written, co-edited, and directed by 28 year old Mathieu Kassovitz, who won the Best Director prize at the Cannes Film Festival for the movie. It was shot in stark black and white with superb direction and an excellent soundtrack. The talented young director and cast bring a vitality and clarity to the film that makes it unforgettable. The three friends are Vinz (Vincent Cassel), a Jewish young man bursting with frustration; Hubert (Hubert Kounde), a reflective Black boxer; and Said (Said Taghmaoui), a street-smart younger Arab– all trying to find their way in a decaying society.

The film grapples with racism, poverty, police brutality, and immigration in a realistic way. It highlights the underbelly of Paris in 1995 and the underserved people living in the projects. It is also thought provoking in light of modern challenges around the world. Watching it before your trip to Paris will give you a deeper understanding of the real struggles of many Parisians.

The Intouchables

Language: French (2011) R

The Intouchables is a heartwarming and, in some instances, funny movie about a unique friendship. The movie is set in Paris and follows the story of Philippe, a wealthy man who had a terrible accident and is now bound to a wheelchair. He is looking for a new personal carer to help him with daily tasks. 

The other main character is Driss, a young man who just got out of prison after six months and must look for a job. He is not motivated to work but must apply, so he picks the carer job, thinking he won’t be accepted. However, Philippe is intrigued by Driss and decides to give him a chance and hire him. 

He appreciates that Driss doesn’t pity him but rather treats him like a real person. Although there are some initial difficulties the two soon become close friends and manage to learn a lot from each other. The Intouchables is inspired by a true story and is the perfect comedy that can also be a little bit sad. 

It is worth watching before your trip because it looks critically at Paris’s different social classes and many problems that the city faces.

Contributed by Victoria at Guide your Travel

The Best Romantic Movies Set in Paris

Hunting and Gathering

Language: French (2007) NR

Hunting & Gathering is the adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by award winning French writer, Anna Gavalda. It is a one of the great romantic French movies to watch for everyone traveling to Paris who wants to get a glimpse of its people.

The film is telling the story of four Parisians: Franck, an overworked cook; his grandmother, Paulette; Camille, an anorexic artist working in a cleaning crew; and Philibert, a socially awkward offspring of an impoverished noble family. 

The bunch, who couldn’t be more different, end up as roommates in the worn-out apartment of Philibert. Each of the group is deeply troubled by their own struggles, and their initial hostility slowly evolves into a remedy against their personal loneliness. 

Everyone who is visiting Paris for the first time and who wants to draw more out of France’s capital than just visiting the sights should watch this movie. It has a wonderful cast including Audrey Tautou, who you probably know from the iconic French movie Amélie, in the role of Camille. Even though the film is set in Paris, it is not a film about Paris. It’s a film about four Parisians, each representing a very different lifestyle that shows a piece of the Parisian reality. 

Contributed by Lena at Salut From Paris

Midnight in Paris

For a romantic and charming film directed by Woody Allen set in Paris, France, I recommend Midnight in Paris. Not only is it a lighthearted and endearing film, but it’s also educational, exploring Paris’s artistic history. It follows Gil, played by Owen Wilson, on a small trip to Paris with his fiancée, played by Rachel McAdams. Gil is utterly enamored with Paris, and dreams of escaping his life in America to live in a tiny Paris attic with a skylight, like his literary and artistic heroes did in the 1920s. One night, while he wanders around Paris at midnight, he discovers that he’s able to travel back in time to the 20s. He proceeds to meet renowned artists and his literary idols, including Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Cole Porter, and Man Ray. This film is what inspired me to start my 1-month Europe itinerary in Paris. Not only does the cinematography cast Paris in a dreamy and enchanting light, but it also showcases some great places to check out, including Sacré-Coeur, the Seine riverside walk, Restaurant Polidor, and the Palace of Versailles. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend “Midnight in Paris” for those interested in visiting France, as it will both educate you on Paris’s history and inspire you to visit some great sightseeing spots around the city! Contributed by Mia at Walk a While with Me

Moulin Rouge

“So exciting, the audience will stomp and cheer,” the song ‘Spectacular, Spectacular’ in Moulin Rouge promises, and this 2001 Baz Luhrmann extravaganza definitely delivers. The movie follows young Christian, who moves to Montmartre in turn-of-the-century Paris in search of freedom, beauty, truth and love. He falls in love with Satine, a performer and courtesan from the famed Moulin Rouge nightclub. Filled with reimagined pop music, this tragic musical dramedy is a love poem dedicated to Paris and the romantics who made the city what it is today.

Travelers to France can follow in Christian’s footsteps and take the train from London to Paris as he did in the beginning of the film. Once in Paris, head to one of the most beloved neighborhoods in Paris, Montmartre. Aside from being the picturesque backdrop for Moulin Rouge, this artistic village was once home to such giants as Picasso, Matisse, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (an artist featured as a character in the movie). 

Stop by the film’s namesake, the Moulin Rouge, a real-life cabaret which opened in 1889 and is known for the can-can dance style it introduced to the world. Performances are available daily, so you can immerse yourself in the Belle Époque cabaret world of Moulin Rouge . And if the romance of the film inspired you, don’t miss Le Mur des Je t’Aime (the I Love You Wall) for a sappy photo opp in front of the tiled wall splayed with “I love you” written in over 250 languages.

Contributed by Mary at Wanderu

The Best Movies About Versailles

Marie Antoinette

Language: English (2006) PG-13 The film Marie Antoinette captures the essence and opulence of 18th century France, particularly in the royal courts. A light lesson on politics during this period is balanced with fantastical dresses, luxurious living, lavish architecture and drama. Marie Antoinette is played by sweet and innocent Kirsten Dunst, while Louis XVI is portrayed by Jason Schwartzman. All together with the edgy and alternative direction of Sophia Copolla, the film has an addictive plot, start to finish. Great for teenagers and young adults looking for a dramatic and catchy retelling of historic events. The film follows the naive and young Marie Antoinette at the age of 15-19 as she navigates politics in the 18th century. Marie is married off to Louis XVI of France and lives out her days at the opulent Versailles Palace. Scandal, gossip and intrigue ensue as Marie finds her place amongst royalty. The Marie Antoinette movie is based at Versailles Palace, one of the most famous landmarks in France. Built by Louis XIV, the Sun God, in 1661, Versailles was the seat of power and money for over a century. If you plan on visiting the Palace of Versailles outside of Paris proper, the film does a great job of portraying the decadence of the halls and galleries of Versailles and showcasing many parts of the grounds and interiors. Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Looking For More About Versailles?

The best films set in the french countryside.

Back to Burgundy (Ce Qui Nous Lie)

Language: French (2017) NR

Have you ever wanted to become a winemaker in France? Or thought about getting into business with your family? Back to Burgundy gives you a realistic, yet somehow still appealing, account of the struggles of running a vineyard with your siblings. 

In the film, oldest son Jean returns to his childhood home in Burgundy when his father falls ill. After a conflict with his father years back, he moved to Australia to start a vineyard there. He’s estranged from his brother and sister, who have remained in their little town. When their father dies, they must decide to continue with the business or sell. All have their own demons to battle as they try to figure out how to revive the vineyard and pay their massive debt.  

Against the backdrop of Burgundy and the changing seasons, the siblings find a way to trust each other again and work together. Despite their struggles with money, romantic partners, in-laws, competitors, and each other, they manage to produce a great wine.  

This French family drama shows that you can always come home again. It’s a heartwarming story, stacked with a great cast, gorgeous views of the French countryside, and copious amounts of red wine. If you love wine and want to be transported to France , this is a great movie to watch. 

Contributed by Sophie at Just Heading Out

A Year in Burgundy (2013), A Year in Champagne (2015), A Year in Port (2016)

Languages: English and French, 13+

Pour yourself a glass and join renowned wine importer Martine Saunier as she visits with her favorite wine-making families from France. Each of the three films spans a year in Burgundy, Champagne, or Port.  We get to know the families, their struggles, and their successes through the seasons. You will appreciate wine more after watching any of these films and will be well prepared to enjoy local wines on your trip to France.

The three documentaries follow mostly small vintners as we gain understanding of the terroir and personal history of families who make each wine. We also appreciate the amazing amount of tenacity and creativity that goes into every bottle. We learn about the ancient methods of growing grapes and making wine in each region. 

The cinematography is beautiful and will make you want to travel to the French countryside to see the vineyards in person. If you are moved to want to work on a French vineyard, consider adding volunteering or working for a season into your travel plans!

The Best Movies Set in Provence

A Good Year

Language: English (2006) PG-13

A Good Year is a gentle, feel-good film with a hint of romance, a large helping of nostalgia, and some gorgeous scenery from around Provence and the South of France.

The main character of the film is Max (Russell Crowe), a British man who works in the soulless and harsh London financial world.  His Uncle dies and leaves his vineyard and house in Provence to him and so he travels there to sell the property.  What begins as another financial transaction turns into a trip down memory lane as he remembers his childhood and becomes attached to the area and the inhabitants.  There are some hiccups in the sale as an intriguing woman turns up claiming to be his uncle’s daughter and Max’s interest in another woman makes him begin to wonder whether he wants to sell the property at all.

If you’re thinking about a trip to the French countryside and exploring vineyards, whether that’s in Burgundy, Champagne, or Provence, you probably have images of traditional villages, romantic atmosphere and hazy sunlight flooding the area.  This film will show you all that, get you excited for it and make you wonder whether you might actually like to buy a French property and live a life with good wine, food and weather!  If you’re just planning to visit the coastline of the Cote D’Azur or even Monaco then it will inspire you to travel inland to the villages to explore more.

Contributed by Kristy at Lost in Landmarks

My Father’s Glory

Language: French (1990) G

My Father’s Glory is a great film to watch for people dreaming of visiting Provence, in Southern France. This is the first of a series of two films based on Marcel Pagnol’s childhood in Marseille . Marcel Pagnol was a French novelist, playwright, and filmmaker. Regarded as an auteur, Marcel Pagnol became in 1946 the first filmmaker elected to the Académie Française. 

The film is set in Marseille and the surrounding countryside in the 1900’s and it is based on Pagnol’s autobiography of the same name. Young Marcel grows up in the big city, under the strict rules of his father. In summertime, the family moves to the countryside and there Marcel meets a boy of his same age named Lili. The two boys soon become good friends. Lili shares with Marcel – a city boy – all the secrets of the countryside.

The film stars Philippe Caubière, Nathalie Roussel, and Didier Pain, three popular French actors of that time. It is a lovely, easy-going film perfect to watch on a lazy Sunday afternoon as you dream of your trip to the south of France. It is also a trip back in time to beautiful Marseille after the First World War.

Contributed by Elisa from France Bucket List

For more great films set in Provence try Manon des Sources , Jean de Florette, and Marius Et Jeannette .

The Best Movies Set in the French Riviera

Language: French (2012) R 

Renoir is a biopic inspired by the artist himself, impressionistic in lighting, characters, and plot. Many scenes feel like sumptuous film versions of his paintings, with the gorgeous lighting of the French Riviera taking center stage. 

The story centers around Pierre-Auguste Renoir (Michel Bouquet) at the end of his life as he paints his final model, free spirited Andree Heuschling (Christa Theret). It takes place in 1915 at his idyllic country estate along the Cote D’Azur which serves as a backdrop for many paintings and scenes in the film. His middle son Jean (Vincent Ruttiers) returns home to recover from injuries as a soldier in WWI. Both father and son become enchanted with the strong and beautiful Andree. 

Inspired by real life events, the film captures Jean and Andree early in their lives, before Andree becomes a film actress and Jean becomes one of the greatest directors of all time. Tip: Add Jean Renoir’s classics La Grande Illusion (1937) and The Rules of the Game (1939) to your watch list. 

If you appreciate a strong plot and riveting action, find another movie. This storyline dapples in scenes the way Renoir dappled light across his canvas. The not-fully developed characters in the film mirror the soft impressions and dramatic brushstrokes of the people in his paintings. This is a film to watch on the largest screen you have, the beauty of the film is what makes it a standout. 

This is a great movie to add to your playlist before your trip to France. If you are traveling to the French Riviera, you will delight in the stunning scenes of the area. When you are on your trip, be sure to visit the Musee Renoir to see the actual estate he lived in. If you are traveling to Paris, this film will help you appreciate his significant collection at Musée d’Orsay even more. 

For more great films set the French Riviera try To Catch a Thief , And God Created Woman, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

The Best Movies Set in the Dordogne

Language: English (2000) PG-13

Grab a box of chocolates to enjoy while you are charmed by the lovely Dordogne, where much of this film is set. The scenes with the traditional Gaberes boats were filmed in Beynac. The boats have been decked out for Johnny Depp and his companions, but long ago they were used to ship goods from the region to the port in Bordeaux. Plan to ride on one (or maybe kayak) when you visit!

Looking for more about the Dordogne?

The best french kids movies.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Language: English (1996) G

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is perhaps one of the best animated Disney movies set in a real place. The majority of the film takes place at the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris. 

Based on the classic novel by the same name, the movie, produced and released by Walt Disney, follows the story of Quasimodo, a bellringer with a disability, who spends much of his life locked away in the bell tower at the church. Out of fear of ridicule and rejection, Quasimodo avoids going out in public, making friends with the gargoyles that adorn the church.

The animated musical drama is one of the more serious and darker Disney cartoons ever released. It addresses some very tough issues like loneliness, rejection, bullying, unacceptance based on appearance, and even persecution, lust, and murder.  While the movie may be G-rated, it is perhaps best suited for older children rather than toddlers or kids under the age of 6 due to the difficult nature of some of the topics. However, the film teaches an important lesson on acceptance and can serve as a great conversation starter with children. 

In the end, Quasimodo gains acceptance and is hailed a hero in Paris and after saving the life of an immigrant woman who had befriended him.

The animation captures Notre Dame and Paris beautifully and is a great way to introduce children to Paris prior to a trip to France.

Contributed by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Ratatouille

Language: English (2007) G 

One of the best movies about France to watch before going to France is Ratatouille. This is a comedy animation film that is suitable for all ages. What makes this a great movie is that it is a lot of fun and is set in Paris. 

The movie is about a rat named Remy who has a dream of becoming a chef, as opposed to the other rats that appear in this movie. He ends up at the kitchen of a restaurant in Paris where he sees the garbage boy of the restaurant trying to fix a soup. Remy secretly fixes the soup instead, but the garbage boy spots him. The owner of the restaurant wants to fire the garbage boy for altering the soup, but the soup turns out to be a success. The garbage boy may keep his job if he can make the soup again. 

  Remy and the garbage boy decide to work together in secret. This collaboration was a success, and Remy starts working together with the garbage boy from now on, and through this Remy can fulfill his dream of being a chef. 

Through this movie you get a good impression of the food of Paris and the atmosphere of the city, which makes you want to visit Paris even more! It is a great kid’s movie set in Paris but also enjoyable for adults.

Contributed by Dymphe at Dymabroad

For more great kids films set in France try The Red Balloon,  Hugo, and The Painter.

Going to France with kids or teens?

The best movies about france.

We hope you have found some films to inspire your travels to France!  What are your favorite film recommendations for people traveling to France? Leave your suggestions in the comments to help other readers. Or tell me what you thought of any of the films in the article. 

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21 thoughts on “The Best Movies About France to Watch Before Your Trip”

What a great list!! Les Mis is my favorite musical ever so I think I’ve seen every version, multiple times haha. And Julia and Julia and Midnight in Paris are so good too! I love how you split the movies up by region. There are lots of these I still need to see.

Thanks, Maggie! I’d love to know if you have any other Les Mis recommendations, it sounds like you are the person to ask! I always enjoy watching films related to where I’m traveling to, and there are so many options in France– I thought it would be nice for people to get to watch movies set in particular areas. I’m glad you liked it!

i’s loving this list!!… actually i had forgotten how much i adore “Amelie,” and i’ll definitely have to rewatch that film before my next trip to france! i’m also excited to check out “Mr and Mrs Adelman.”

Amelie is one of the best and always worth a re-watch! I hope you enjoy Mr and Mrs Adelman as much as I did!

I love the idea about watching movies about France before a visit. Always gives me ideas of places to visit and sets the mood for the visit. A great variety in the movies you have chose. Sure makes me wish France was on my travel plans.

Me too, Linda! I always learn a lot watching in advance and it is a great way to build anticipation and excitement– even if a place is still years away in our travel plans. I’m so pleased you enjoyed the collection!

I have only seen a couple of these movies and they were quite fun. I think I would like to see Julie and Julia. It sounds quite culturally immersive.

Julie and Julia is a great one and it will make you want to visit a French restaurant in your hometown or try some French cooking!

All of these suggestions really make me miss France! This calls for a movie night very soon.

Me too, I can’t wait to travel there again! I hope some movies help to tide you over. 🙂

I can’t wait to watch some of these before my trip! We’ll be in France for 2 months!

Two months, that will be wonderful! If I remember right, you are going soon. If so, enjoy!

Well, I know what I’m queuing up on all my streaming platforms now! This is such a great list of movies to watch and a few I haven’t seen before! Super!

Thanks Missy, I hope you enjoy them as much as we have!

Chocolat is my all-time fav French film. My daughter and I used to watch every year at Easter. I can’t wait to watch some of the movies in your list. Thank you!

I always liked “American Dreamer” with JoBeth Williams and Tom Conti. It is a clever rom/com set in Paris with an excursion to Vaux le Vicompte.

Love this idea of watching films before visiting France so that you can get a feel for the place!Les Miserables is my favorite, but Ratatouille is probably second.

Happy to report that I’ve seen at least eight of these movies! I love movies that are set in Europe, so I’ll definitely take a look at a couple more from your list.

I love French movies, even if it means watching with subtitles. Priceless was one of my favorites, so I was hoping to see it on this list, haha! But somehow I think Americans show more of the french beauty, so those are always nice to watch as well 😍

I love this list! Les Misérables is my favorite musical and Ratatouille is my favorite Pixar movie! I think I’ve watched around 10 of them, but I can’t wait to watch the rest! 😍

Thanks for this wonderful list – a lot of these movies are already on my favourites list – can’t wait to see the rest!

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15 Incredible Movies Set in France to Inspire Your Next French Vacation

France is a fabulous travel destination that has plenty to offer for potential travelers. From elegant cities, nice beaches, and gorgeous mountain views to delicious food and advanced winemaking and drinking culture, in France, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re dreaming about your next vacation in Paris or simply want to know more about the French lifestyle, here are 15 great movies set in France that are worth your attention. Whether it’s a comedy or a drama, these films perfectly showcase France’s cities and landscape, local culture, cuisine, and of course – romance and passion that the French are famous for.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy a good story — with a glass of some French wine, maybe?

Paris (2008)

French movie “Paris” centers around Pierre (Romain Duris), a cabaret dancer with a heart condition waiting for a heart transplant. As Pierre is spending his days watching other peoples’ lives from his balcony, his sister Élise (Juliette Binochewith) with three kids decide to move in. Other parallel and intertwining storylines in the movie feature various people that Pierre and Élise meet in their daily lives: their neighbors, a baker, a local vegetable market vendor, etc. “Paris” is a sentimental movie with great actors and gorgeous Parisian views.

Paris, I Love You / Paris, Je T’Aime (2006)

One of the best movies about Paris, which is actually more like an art project, “Paris, Je T’Aime” tells 18 separate stories all set in different neighborhoods in Paris. Each of the stories is an independent film with its own directors, writers, cast, different filming and storytelling techniques — the only thing that connects them is the beautiful city. “Paris, Je T’Aime” is packed with famous actors such as Gerard Depardieu, Natalie Portman, Elijah Wood, and others. It is a must-see film for Paris-lovers and those who want to spend their next vacation in the French capital.

Paris Can Wait (2016)

“Paris Can Wait” is a great movie set in France full of breathtaking scenery, representation of the local cuisine, and romance. The story follows Anne (Diane Lane), a wife of a successful movie producer (Alec Baldwin) that unexpectedly ends up on a road trip from Cannes to Paris with her husband’s business associate Jacques (Arnaud Viard). Instead of driving her to Paris as promised, Jacques is taking Anne through the French countryside, stopping for gourmet dinners and romantic viewpoints, providing her with a new lust for life.

One Wild Moment / Un moment d’égarement (2015)

If you’re looking for a real passionate French drama, “One Wild Moment” should definitely be on your list. The film follows two divorced fathers, Antoine and Laurent (played by François Cluzet and Vincent Cassel), who spend their vacation in Corsica with their respective young daughters: seventeen-year-old Louna and eighteen-year-old Marie. One evening at the beach Louna seduces Laurent, and so the drama begins…

Back to Burgundy / Ce qui nous lie (2017)

Set in the picturesque Burgundy, “Back to Burgundy” is an emotional story of three siblings that reunite at their home after their father falls ill and eventually dies. Without having anyone to consult with, Jean, Juliette, and Jérémie have to take some serious decisions about their family’s vineyard and the upcoming harvest. A heartwarming drama about family struggles, “Back to Burgundy” is also a great movie for those who want to better understand the specifics of the French wine-making culture.

A Good Year (2006)

“A Good Year” is probably one of the best-known movies set in Provence. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film is based on Peter Mayle’s best-selling novel and tells the story of a London banker Max Skinner (Russel Crowe), who relocates to Provence to sell his uncle’s vineyard. After spending a few days in the French countryside, Max discovers the new laid-back lifestyle and meets a beautiful woman (Marion Cotillard) that makes him reevaluate his priorities. Set among the gorgeous lavender fields in Southern France, “A Good Year” is an easy rom-com perfect for a cozy evening at home.

Swimming Pool (2003)

Another movie set in Provence, “Swimming Pool” is an erotic thriller directed by the famous French director François Ozon. It follows Sarah Morton (Charlotte Rampling), a British crime novelist who decides to spend some time in her publisher’s country house in Southern France to overcome writer’s block. All seems to be going well until a young attractive woman (Ludivine Sagnier) claiming to be the publisher’s daughter shows up. Beautiful and charming filming locations of the French countryside set an interesting contrast to the film’s unexpectedly thrilling storyline.

Midnight in Paris (2011)

Directed by Woody Allen, “Midnight in Paris” is one of the most magical and romantic movies set in the French capital. It features Owen Wilson as a screenwriter and aspiring novelist named Gil who comes to Paris for a holiday with his frustrating fiancée Inez (Rachel McAdams). One evening, Gil finds himself walking alone through the empty streets when a vintage car pulls over, and Gil is transported back in time to the Paris of the Lost Generation. Here he meets many of his literary heroes and a charming lady Adriana (Marion Cotillard).

The Intouchables / Intouchables (2011)

A must-see for French cinema lovers, “The Intouchables” is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy based on a true tale of friendship. It centers around Philippe (Francois Cluset), a wealthy and quite isolated quadriplegic man living in Paris, and Driss (Omar Sy), his streetwise caregiver with a criminal record. As the two men from contrasting worlds become friends, Driss encourages Philippe to have a little more fun and adventures in life despite his disability.

Things to Come / L’Avenir (2016)

“Things to Come” is a French-German drama film starring Isabelle Huppert as Nathalie, a middle-aged philosophy professor whose life is going through some serious changes. After her husband announces he’s been having an affair, her mother dies, and her book-deal falls through, Nathalie suddenly finds the freedom that she never had in her life before. A warm and thoughtful film, “Things to Come” is mainly set in Paris, but it also features other beautiful French locations.

The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)

One of the most mouthwatering movies set in France, “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is a dedication to the world-famous French cuisine and its culinary delights. An Indian family settles in a small French village where they decide to open a restaurant serving traditional Indian food. Just across the street, there’s another fancy Michelin-starred restaurant run by Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren), an expert in sensual French cooking. As the story unfolds, the initial competition and the clash of the two cultures slowly turn into cooperation and friendship.

Le Divorce (2003)

Comedy film “Le Divorce” centers around two American women and their experiences in the French capital. Roxy (Naomi Watts) is an ex-pat poet living in Paris with her French husband, who recently asked for a divorce after falling in love with his mistress. Isabel (Kate Hudson) is Roxy’s sister who came to Paris for a visit and started an affair with a married man. As you can guess, “Le Divorce” is a story of passion and love, full of magnificent views of Parisian architecture and some witty American humor.

Before Sunset (2004)

Nominated for an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, “Before Sunset” is the critically acclaimed sequel to the 1995 film “Before Sunrise”. Filmed entirely in Paris, the movie continues the story of an American man (Ethan Hawke) and a French woman (Julie Delpy) who shared a passionate night together in Vienna. “Before Sunset” shows the couple meeting again nine years later in the French capital and spending an afternoon together. If you’re looking for the most romantic movies set in Paris, this might be your best choice!

My Old Lady (2014)

Another sentimental movie filmed in Paris, “My Old Lady” follows a troubled New Yorker, Mathias (Kevin Kline), who goes to Paris to sell an apartment owned by his estranged father. Little does he know that the property still has residents: an old woman, Mathilde (Maggie Smith), who has a complicated history with Mathias’ father, and her daughter Chloé (Kristin Scott Thomas). Smart and funny, “My Old Lady” is a fulfilling comedy-drama with a great cast and some French romance.

C’est la vie! / Le sens de la fête (2017)

“C’est la vie!” is a witty French comedy about a hectic wedding party held in a sumptuous 17 th -century French chateau. The wedding planner, Max, is trying to make everything perfect as he deals with his short-tempered assistant, unprofessional staff, an egocentric groom, a former admirer of the bride, a free-loading photographer, and other issues that just seem to never end. If you’re looking for an undemanding feel-good movie with some French charm and passion, “C’est la vie!” might just be it.

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25 Top Movies Set In France To Watch Before Going

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Laugh, cry, and fall in love with these atmospheric and thought-provoking movies set in France sure to transport you there. From Paris to Provence, spark that wanderlust, while also gaining insight into French history.

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French Cinema Has Perfected The Art Of Entertainment

French cinema is well-known for its skilled political and social commentary and unique artistic – and oftentimes creative – approach. Many of the stories are character-driven, filled with emotion, and place a strong emphasis on storytelling. It’s also no secret that French films debut all over international film festivals, raking in the awards.

Of course, films set in France promise an international flair and interest too – and not all are made by French film producers and directors. Many showcase France’s top tourist attractions and breathtaking landscapes. Who can resist that delicious French cuisine? Below, uncover just a few of our favorites, showcasing a variety of actors and producers.

Best Contemporary Movies Set In France

These are our top picks for more recent movies released after 2000. Meet eccentric characters, and learn more about WW2. Many of these award-winning films are popular with both critics and viewers. However, the box office numbers aren’t always in agreement.

Amélie (2001)

If you mainly enjoy contemporary movies based in France, the first one that probably comes to mind is Amélie , a French romantic comedy directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet.

The titular quirky heroine, played to perfection by Audrey Tautou, decides to overcome her personal struggles with grief and loneliness by bringing happiness to others.

The film was famously overlooked for the Cannes Film Festival in the year of its release because the selectors watched a version without its iconic score (composed by Yann Tiersen) and deemed it “uninteresting.” Legions of critics and fans proved them wrong when it went on to become the highest-grossing and most highly acclaimed French movie that year.

Watch even more of the best romance movies from and set in France .

Midnight In Paris (2011)

Okay, yes, Woody Allen is very canceled . However, there are so many brilliant stars in Midnight In Paris –like Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, and Adrien Brody – that we cannot cancel the entire film.

The fantasy-comedy sees a struggling screenwriter drawn back in time to early 20th century Paris, rubbing shoulders with ex-pat icons like Zelda Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Ernest Hemingway.

Midnight In Paris premiered at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and went on to win major critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It’s the perfect movie to watch if you enjoy fantasy mixed with romance .

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

Most tourists might be drawn to Paris by the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, but French cinema fans always make time to see the Moulin Rouge. The late-night hot spot is immortalized in Baz Luhrmann’s musical drama Moulin Rouge! , one of his famous Red Curtain Trilogy films.

The story follows a young English poet, played by Ewan McGregor, as he falls in love with the club’s cabaret star and side-hustle courtesan, played by Nicole Kidman.

The masterstroke is the use of MTV generation music, popular songs contrasting perfectly with the melodrama of the plot and the glamor of the City of Light location. Francophiles will most enjoy Moulin Rouge! – and if you are looking for even more, try these Paris-set books to read afterward.

The Truth (2019)

The release of The Truth was almost entirely overshadowed by news of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a real shame as it could have been one of the most popular movies set in France in recent years – if anyone had been allowed to leave the house to see it.

The story follows a showbiz family – aging actress Fabienne Dangeville (played by Catherine Deneuve) and her screenwriter daughter Lumir (played by Juliette Binoche) – as they reunite for the publication of Fabienne’s memoir.

The tension is off the charts, and the leading ladies are fantastic, though it must be said that Ethan Hawke, as Lumir’s husband, Hank, also plays his part to perfection.

Hugo (2011)

Hugo is one of the most widely-lauded and critically acclaimed movies, but it was a real flop with audiences upon release. And let’s be real, this is very strange for a Martin Scorsese film!

The story – about a young boy who lives alone in the Gare Montparnasse railway station in Paris and is lured into adventure – failed to resonate with cinema-goers. And yet, the Academy came calling, with eleven nominations (more than any other film that year).

Critics have praised Hugo’s extravagance, stimulating cinematography, and impressive soundscape. However, none of this made much of a difference at the box office. It just goes to show: good and popular don’t always go hand in hand!

Le Divorce (2003)

If you’re looking for a traditional romantic comedy, move along. Le Divorce takes the tropes of the rom-com genre and turns them on their heads. It might still have a happily ever after, but no one’s going to make it through this “love” story unscathed.

Kate Hudson and Naomi Watts co-star as American girls trying to figure out love in the city that’s most famous for it. There are legal disputes over possibly forged artwork, infidelity, murder, fashion, and – of course – divorce.

Leslie Caron shines in her supporting role as a meddling mother-in-law , and you’re sure to get a few laughs out of the inevitable clashes between French and American customs.

Ratatouille (2007)

On the face of it, Ratatouille sounds ridiculous: a rat dreams of becoming a chef , and forms an unlikely alliance with a garbage boy in a French restaurant, using him as a puppet to live out his fantasy. How could that possibly stand up as one of the best films set in France?

And yet, it does; it was even voted by international critics to be named one of the 100 greatest motion pictures of the 21st century and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in the year of its release.

Children delight in the flashy Pixar production, while adults revel in the warm nostalgia and quick humor of this delicious tale playing out on screen.

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

If you’re tired of the same old plots in movies that take place in France during WWII, Quentin Tarantino has made something special just for you. Inglorious Basterds is an alternate history , showing the possible outcomes of assassination plots against Nazi leaders.

From the opening scene, with an SS soldier interrogating a French farmer he suspects of harboring Jewish refugees, this film will have your jaw dropping and your gut churning.

After its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in 2009, it went on to become Tarantino’s highest-grossing film to date and received a slew of Academy Awards and BAFTA Awards nominations and wins.

A Good Year (2006)

A Good Year might have been a box office bomb, but the cinematography is stunning and the performances aren’t as bad as some snooty critics made out.

Russell Crowe plays Max, a workaholic finance guy with fond memories of childhood summers spent at his uncle’s vineyard in the south of France. After his uncle’s death, Max returns to the vineyard and finds himself caught between his high-stress big-city life and the romance of winemaking.

There are inheritance dramas, romantic dramas, accidents, and miscommunications – dramas galore in this cozy French film. You know we are huge fans of any vineyard-set movie here at TUL. Santé!

Dunkirk (2017)

Remember when everyone was all abuzz about Dunkirk because Harry Styles had his first acting role in it? It’s a shame that all the brouhaha overshadowed the quality of the film itself, which was lauded by critics not only as one of the best movies set in France but also the best war films of all time .

Christopher Nolan spent decades refining his vision and planning the production of this WWII story, told in three parts (from land, air, and sea). The result is an incredibly evocative depiction of the evacuation of Dunkirk in 1940.

The film received a slew of Academy Award and BAFTA Award nominations, securing wins for sound, mixing, and editing.

Movies Based On Real People

With history lovers on our team – and an undergrad history major – we love a good biopic. While some of these movies might make bigger concessions for the big screen, it doesn’t mean they are any less devour-worthy. Learn more about French and non-French figures based in France with these movies.

La Vie En Rose (2007)

We’ve all heard, and maybe even been moved to tears, by Édith Piaf’s signature song, La Vie En Rose . This biographical musical film , directed by Olivier Dahan and starring French actress Marion Cotillard, explores the story behind the song through a non-linear series of events drawn from Piaf’s life.

Cotillard’s performance is mesmerizing, earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 2007 – the first time it was awarded for a French-speaking role. It’s undoubtedly one of the best internationally co-produced films about one of the country’s greatest musical exports.

Marie Antoinette (2006)

“Let them eat cake!” Sofia Coppola had a vision for telling the story of the last Queen of France before the French Revolution, which she brought to life in Marie Antoinette .

With Kirsten Dunst in the titular role, this visually stunning and arresting film captures the decadence and discordance of life in the court at Versailles. Coppola offers a stylized vision of a turbulent time in French history, humanizing its most polarizing figures for a modern audience.

This is one of those great historical movies about France best enjoyed with a plate of delicious macarons and a glass of fine wine.

Julie & Julia (2009)

Why do so many of the best movies based in France revolve around food? Perhaps it’s because French cuisine and French cooking have become emblematic of comfort, indulgence, and joy. Julia Child taught us that, as Julie Powell learns in Julie & Julia , the movie based on Powell’s blog-cum-best-selling-memoir.

Powell lives in modern-day New York and seeks to break out of a lifestyle rut by cooking every single recipe from Julia Child’s Mastering The Art Of French Cooking in one year. What makes this movie shine, though, is the parallel story playing out in Paris, with Meryl Streep starring as Julia Child, learning to cook and leaning on her wonderfully supportive husband, played by Stanley Tucci.

Along with some of our favorite stars of all time, with a Smithie on our team, we are always pretty biased toward Julia Child.

Colette (2018)

Colette tells one of the greatest literary stories you’ve probably never heard, with Kiera Knightley shining in one of her signature period drama roles.

This biopic seeks to restore the name and reputation of Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette , a girl from rural 19th-century France who was swept up in the deception of her libertine husband. Forced to ghost-write her husband’s bestselling novels, she becomes the unseen hand behind his apparent genius.

With romantic affairs, high-stakes conflict, and fascinating true history, this is one of the best movies for book lovers.

Coco Before Chanel (2009)

Coco Chanel, beyond the grave, no doubt hopes she’s remembered for her classy suits and fragrant perfumes – but there was a lot more to her life than that, not all of it glamorous.

The biopic Coco Before Chanel explores her early life, from an Aubazines orphanage to a cabaret bar to the arm of a rich Englishman. Though the film’s timeline ends before her more controversial choices during World War II, it provides a lot of context for them.

Naturally, fashion is the film’s strongest point, winning one of the coveted Cesar Awards for Best Costumes . No collection of France-set movies is complete without this tribute to the country’s iconic designer.

Inspired By Favorite Books

From well-known French classics to bestselling and popular fiction, watch the best movies based on your favorite books set in, about, and from France .

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

It’s fitting that the ultimate airport thriller became one of the best movies to watch on a plane. The Da Vinci Code took the world by storm, first in print and then on screen .

Fans – including us – forgive the clunky dialogue and factual reaches as they follow symbologist Robert Langdon (played by Tom Hanks) on a scavenger hunt through France’s most recognizable artworks and landmarks.

With the help of French cryptologist Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou) and eccentric expert Sir Leigh Teabing (Geoffery Rush), Langdon hunts down a treasure that has been jealously guarded for centuries, pursued by creepy emissaries of a pious religious order . Sure, it’s schlocky, but it’ll keep you distracted on your flight to Paris.

And, for fans of Dan Brown, his other bestselling novel, Angels & Demons , went on to become a fast-paced thriller set in Rome and at the Vatican .

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996)

It’s a toss-up whether the story of The Hunchback Of Notre Dame is better known as the epic Victor Hugo novel or one of the most perennially popular Disney kids’ movies set in France – it really depends on who you ask.

The millennials who grew up watching and rewinding a tired VHS copy might be surprised to know just how much of the Disney animation was actually drawn from Hugo’s original text. Sure, they played down the antiziganism and attempted genocide, and focused more on the star-crossed lovers angle, but it’s still a remarkably close read of one of the most popular stories of 19th-century France.

Les Misérables (2012)

Anne Hathaway’s hair! Russell Crowe’s singing! Love it or hate it, no list is complete without Les Misérables . Victor Hugo’s greatness truly fell victim to – or thrived from – the big screen.

The story follows Jean Valjean, a parolee on the lam who seeks redemption in caring for a factory worker’s daughter. It’s set in 19th-century France and plays out across the lead-up to the June Rebellion .

This epic film was decades in the making and smashed opening-day records for musical films upon its release. Although some of the vocal performances drew harsh criticism, the adaptation still stands as one of the most visually stunning and emotionally arresting movies about France.

Chocolat (2000)

Anyone with a sweet tooth will love Chocolat , one of the most delicious films set in France. It’s based on the 1999 novel by Joanne Harris , translating its subtle magical realism to the screen.

Juliette Binoche stars as a single mother who opens a chocolaterie in a small village in the French countryside; her confections slowly begin to change the lives of the locals, who overcome their biases and repair their broken relationships by the end credits.

This is a wonderful, feel-good film, perfect to watch snuggled up on the couch with a family block of Cadbury’s finest. It’s truly one of our favorites as foodies and romance lovers. Plus, if religion isn’t quite your jam and going against the grain is, you’ll cheer for Vianne.

The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)

When Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey come together, you just know you’re going to get something uplifting that’s beautiful to watch.

The Hundred-Foot Journey takes a standard comedy set-up – a head-to-head battle between a swanky Michelin-star restaurant and an up-start home-style Indian eatery – and transports it to southern France, with the imitable Helen Mirren in a leading role. The restaurateurs enter into a battle for the hearts and palates of locals, with sabotage and insults played for laughs.

Critics have called it “the most soothing brand of cinematic comfort food,” the perfect description for one of the most delightful movies based on equally worthy books .

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)

It took over twenty years for Patrick Süskind’s novel about a serial killer to make it to the silver screen, but Perfume: The Story of a Murderer was worth the wait.

It opens with the sentencing of a notorious murderer, then flashes back to show how a young orphaned boy with a preternatural sense of smell became the monster on trial.

The cinematography of this film is spectacular, making it one of the most visually impressive movies based in France, as well as one of the most captivating. You won’t find yourself rooting for this anti-hero, but you won’t be able to look away all the same. We highly suggest reading the book before you watch the movie.

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Older Movie Releases

Here at The Uncorked Librarian, our writers (and readers) champion new releases as well as older cinema. For lovers of those timeless films, these are just a few more titles we recommend pre-2000s. You might also enjoy our timeless movie romance list featuring a few films set in France.

To Catch a Thief (1955)

Alfred Hitchcock’s oeuvre is broader than most people realize. Along with high-stakes horror and spooky suspense, he also directed one of the best crime dramas.

In To Catch A Thief , Cary Grant stars as a retired cat burglar who sets out to prove he is not responsible for a series of jewel heists on the French Riviera. The beautiful setting is the perfect backdrop for the intricately plotted whodunnit, with many reviewers citing it as the film’s strongest element.

If you like to watch the dubiously wealthy scheme together, betray each other, and undertake ill-advised love affairs, this is the perfect Hitchcock film for you.

An American In Paris (1951)

An American In Paris is definitely one of the best movies that take place in France – we’re still watching it over seventy years later, and its title has slipped into the lexicon.

The musical romantic comedy stars Gene Kelly as Jerry Mulligan, a WWII veteran living in Paris as an artist. It’s best remembered for its dance sequences, including a 17-minute ballet scene at the film’s climax, and music composed in large part by George Gershwin (fun fact: he also wrote the poem for which the film is named).

It went on to win a slew of awards, most notably the Academy Award for Best Picture, alongside Best Story and Screenplay, Best Costume Design, Best Scoring of a Musical Picture, and more.

Funny Face (1957)

It’s hard to imagine being as beautiful as Audrey Hepburn and yet still feeling self-conscious about your “funny face”- but that’s what she asks us to believe about her character in Funny Face .

Hepburn plays an unassuming bookseller turned fashion model while Fred Astaire plays the photographer who sees her potential (and falls in love with her, to boot).

George and Ira Gershwin were riding high off their Academy Award wins for An American In Paris , and thought they had another hit on their hands when it was released; unfortunately, it flopped, only to be revived when Hepburn shot to stardom with My Fair Lady in 1964.

Ever After (1998)

Live-action remakes might be all the rage now, but Ever After was way ahead of the curve when it first came out in the ‘90s. It’s a realistic take on Cinderella , set in 16th-century France.

Don’t worry, the stepmother is still wicked, the shoe is still made of glass, and the Prince is still charming – it’s just that the only ‘magic’ is the chemistry between the two leads, played by Drew Barrymore and Dougray Scott. Pull this one up when you’re after movies set in France that you can watch with the entire family.

Where to grab top movies and books :

• Express VPN – Using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) allows you to view movies worldwide – and they help keep your information safe. Our writers couldn’t have such diverse film reviews without a VPN.
• Amazon Prime Video – Stream thousands of ad-free movies and TV series on demand with Prime Video.
• Audible Plus : From Amazon, listen to Amazon Originals, podcasts, and audiobooks. They add new titles every week.

Travel Across Europe With More Movies

We love a good movie to transport you abroad. A few more of our favorite lists include:

• Scotland-Based Movies To Watch
• Ireland Movie List
• Popular Films For Greece
• Movies For Norway Travelers

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23 Films Set in France to Watch Before Visiting

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer here .

France is a huge country with such diverse landscapes. When I think of France, I think of Paris, vineyards with grapes for miles around and beaches along the coastline. The films set in France also reflect my ideals.

I recently wrote a whopping blog post on films set in Paris , and now it’s all of the films set in France’s turn.

So, if you read this list, and the first thing you think is “where is  Amélie  you daft woman? Or  An American in Paris?  Or  Moulin Rouge  for crying out loud?!” Relax, cool your jets.

They are all on this list:  84 Films set in Paris to watch before visiting

But they’re no good for wanderlust-inspiring movies if you’re heading to the French Riviera or Lyon. For that, you’ll need this more general list of films set in France!

23 Films set in France you MUST watch

1. The Rules of the Game  (1939)

Director:  Jean Renoir

Language:  French

2.  Bonjour Tristesse  (1954)

Director:  Otto Preminger

Language:  English

3.  To Catch a Thief  (1955)

Director:  Alfred Hitchcock

Read my blog post on  To Catch a Thief  Film Locations in Cannes, France.

4.  Adieu Philippine  (1962)

Director:  Jacques Rozier

5.  Jules et Jim  (1962)

Director:  François Truffaut

6.  A Man and a Woman  (1966)

Director:  Claude Lelouch

7.  Le Boucher  (1970)

Director:  Claude Chabrol

8.  Diamonds are Forever  (1971)

Director:  Guy Hamilton

9.  Day for Night  (1973)

10.  the duellists  (1977).

Director: Ridley Scott

11.  Moonraker  (1979)

Director:  Lewis Gilbert

12.  Manon Des Sources  (1986)

Director:  Claude Berri

13.  Dirty Rotten Scoundrels  (1988)

Director:  Frank Oz

14.  Cyrano de Bergerac  (1990)

Director:  Jean-Paul Rappeneau

15. The Man in the Iron Mask  (1998)

Director:  Randall Wallace

16.  Chocolat  (2000)

Director:  Lasse Hallström

Language:  English/French

17.  Marie Antoinette  (2006)

Director: Sofia Coppola

Language:  English/French.

Read my blog post on  Marie Antoinette  Film Locations in France (Versailles and Paris).

18.  A Good Year  (2006)

Director:  Ridley Scott

Language:  English/French/Russian

19.  Welcome to the Sticks  (2008)

Director:  Dany Boon

20.  Coco Before Chanel  (2009)

Director:  Anne Fontaine

Language:  French/English

21.  In Touchables  (2011)

Director:  Olivier Nakache & Eric Toledano

22.  Farewell, My Queen  (2012)

Director:  Benoit Jacquot

23.  The Hundred-Foot Journey  (2014)

And those are my top films set in France I think you should watch! Have you seen any? Are there any you think I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments below!

84 Films Set in Paris to Watch Before Visiting

Hey! I wrote this. And I'm the human (and hair) behind Almost Ginger. I live for visiting filming locations, attending top film festivals and binge-watching travel inspiring films. I'm here to inspire you to do the same! Get in touch by leaving a comment or contacting me directly: [email protected] .

4 thoughts on “ 23 Films Set in France to Watch Before Visiting ”

Carcassonne down in the south of France ,medieval walled village and castle where they filmed Robin Hood prince of thieves with Kevin Costner .You won’t be disappointed

Thanks so much for your comment, Dianne! You’re absolutely right and I wrote a guide to all the filming locations in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves: https://almostginger.com/robin-hood-prince-of-thieves-locations/

Since this film isn’t set in France, unfortunately, it doesn’t meet the requirements for this blog post. Plus, it’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it location. But I’m sure Carcassonne is a beautiful place!

Hi Rebecca,

Lovely list, i am quite a fan of French films and a pretty frequent visitor to France too. Hope you don’t mind me pointing this out but both ‘To Catch a Thief’ and ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ you have listed as French language films but are in fact English language.

Regards Scott

Thanks so much for your comment Scott! I love French films too. You’re absolutely right and I have no idea why they are listed as French – this post is in desperate need of updating and I hope to get to it sooner rather than later!

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12 Extraordinary Movies Set In France That Will Inspire You To Visit!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories France , Travel Via Cinema

Sofia De Vera combines a heartfelt passion for cinema with over 15 years of critiquing for esteemed film publications, wielding academic credentials from the University of Southern California and New York University, to serve as your personal guide through the enchanting worlds of film and television.  Her full guest bio can be found here.

Cinema itself was invented in France, and, besides New York, there is perhaps no city that serves as the setting of movies more than Paris.

France and film are inseparable, and there are some movies, a number of them in fact, that make it hard not to open one’s laptop and book a ticket to the country the minute the movie ends. Below are some of our top picks for films to watch if you’re in the mood for travel inspiration to France!

Have you been to France before?

If so, do you think these films represent the types of experiences you’ll find on a trip there? Or, perhaps you’re French yourself. Do these movies accurately represent your country, or are they filled with tired locales and stereotypes. Ultimately, it’s up to you which movies you watch and which countries you visit, but we can almost guarantee that, after watching these movies set in France below, you’ll at least want a glimpse of Seine sometime soon.

Wondering where to watch? It depends on where you live in the world and which streaming services you have. We link to the streaming service we watch on in each case - be it Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, or elsewhere.

You can get one month free of Amazon Prime (or a 6-month trial for students ) of Amazon Prime and also get immediate access to FREE Two Day shipping, Amazon Video, and Music. While you won't be charged for your free trial, you'll be upgraded to a paid membership plan automatically at the end of the trial period - though if you have already binged all these, you could just cancel before the trial ends.

Apple TV+ also has a one-week trial, and Hulu has a one-month trial (which can be bundled with Disney!). Another option might be using a VPN to access Netflix titles locked to other regions . Netflix is now available in more than 190 countries worldwide and each country has a different library and availability. US Netflix is (understandably) one of the best. 

While we wish everything could just be in one place - for now, it seems these are the best streaming platforms to watch on.

Page Contents

1. Ratatouille (2007)

2. mission impossible fallout (2018), 3. amélie (2001), 4. hunchback of notre dame (1996), 5. julie and julia (2009), 6. breathless (1961), 7. la haine (1995), 8. portrait of a woman on fire (2020), 9. the intouchables (2011), 10. paris can wait (2016), 11. les misérables (2012), 12. the da vinci code (2006).

One of Pixar’s best, Ratatouille is not only one of the most impressive animated films ever made, but it’s one of the most moving cinematic love letters to France that one will ever see put to film (and, as you’ll see farther on down this list of the best movies set in France, that’s absolutely saying something).

Telling the story of Remy, a rat that loves to cook, Ratatouille has everything that a perfect France-set film needs — great music, great food, love and so much more. When Remy finally gets a chance to prove himself (albeit secretly and through a surrogate), the shots of the high-end French restaurant are enough to tickle your taste buds with visuals alone. The animated landscape and background of the film are the exact same, and they still look phenomenal to this day.

Ratatouille drops you into France and doesn’t let you leave for an hour and a half, but trust us, you’re not going to want to go anywhere else. Full of heart, never cynical, and surprisingly culturally attentive, Ratatouille will almost certainly get you excited to go to France yourself, and, if it doesn’t, it’ll at least get you hungry.

Only about the middle third of Mission Impossible: Fallout takes place in Paris , France, but, as one of the best-shot and visually impressive action movies released in decades, we think it deserves a spot on this list simply because of some of the amazing views of the city we get in this film.

On display in Fallout: the Trocadéro Esplanade near the Eiffel Tower, Le Grand Palais, and the Arc de Triomphe. Now, it’s likely that any French New Wave snob would scoff at us for putting a Mission Impossible film this high on the list, but watch it for yourself and you’ll see — there’s few other major studio films that give you a better look at modern Paris and the surrounding area than this one.

For lovers of travel via cinema , filming also took place in other dramatic locations in London , New Zealand , Norway , and the United Arab Emirates . For this reason alone it is a must-watch.

Fun fact: Tom Cruise actually broke his ankle while filming Mission Impossible: Fallout . The incident took place while filming in the United Kingdom , not France, but it was in a similar scene to many of the ones in Paris that features Cruise’s character Ethan Hunt jumping from building to building.

Cruise, dedicated to performing his own stunt as always, described the production-halting incident like this: “I was chasing Henry [Cavill] and I was meant to hit the side of the wall and pull myself over,” he said. “But the mistake was my foot hitting the wall,” he explained. “I knew instantly my ankle was broken and I really didn’t want to do it again so just got up and carried on with the take.”

No French-set movie list is complete without Amélie , the odd, surreal, and commercially successful 2001 film from director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Set in Montmartre, a district in Paris, Amélie is a whimsical romantic comedy that is without a doubt one of the most visually impressive displays of Paris and France that has been on screen.

The film is the most successful French-language film in the United States for a reason; its beautiful, colorful sequences capture the eye and the mind, beckoning the viewer to come join Amélie on her journeys through Paris.

The film is, perhaps unsurprisingly, a bit idealistic, but there are few better options out there to get you into the Parisian spirit of old than Amélie.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame may be Disney’s most underrated animated film, and it’s a shame, because the movie musical, released in 1996, is not only one of the best-animated films released before the year 2000, but it’s one of the most fun and exciting representations of historical France on film.

As is always the case, anything is possible with animation, and in Hunchback, this is no different. The buildings, many of which of course you can still visit on your own trips, are drawn as imposing and powerful. Sadly, however, as we probably all know, Notre Dame was ravaged by a fire and is currently undergoing restoration but nearby Charles Cathedral (one of Frances UNESCO World Heritage Sites) can still be visited should you wish to experience a similar feeling.

The streets are filled with period-accurate peasants, and the systems and rulers in place in the film are all historically accurate. It’s a darker, more nuanced film than almost anything else Disney had released at the time, and that alone makes it worth a watch; however, its fantastic depiction of medieval France makes it an essential viewing when it comes to the best movies set in Paris .

You can’t talk about France without talking about food, so perhaps it is unsurprising that there are multiple food-based movies on this list. Julie and Julia , released in 2009 and directed by cinema-legend Norah Ephron, tells the separate but interconnected stories of two women: chef Julia Child and young New Yorker Julie Powell.

Powell’s story takes place in New York City in 2002, but Child’s story is based in Paris in the 1950s. The set and costume design of these portions are stunning, some of the best we’ve ever seen, and there’s no film (besides those made in the time period itself perhaps) that we can think of that captures the magic of mid-century France better than Julie and Julia.

That’s not to mention all of the amazing shots of scenes of food as well. Check it out – not only will you be inspired to visit France yourself, but you’ll probably fire up the stove before the credits have even rolled!

One of if not the most iconic films of the French New Wave movement, Breathless , directed by the legend of world cinema Jean-Luc Godard, is so accurate and raw in its portrayal of late 1950s France that the shots of the city featured in the narrative film might as well be considered documentary footage.

This was a hallmark of the New Wave movement of course — realistic footage shot on smaller, portable cameras than were previously unavailable — but Goddard’s imagery is even more striking than his contemporaries.

His black and white shots of the Parisian streets feel like undiscovered homemade videos, even upon rewatch, and we can bet that seeing them will make you want to go take your own, albeit on better cameras than Goddard even had available.

La Haine tells the story of three men — a Jewish man, a Black man, and a Muslim – across the period of one day and one night.

The men, all of whom are friends, each come from a poor immigrant neighborhood in the suburbs of Paris, and the film, one of the most critically acclaimed French films of all time, is a powerful, impactful, and heavy-hitting piece of cinema. La Haine is probably the hardest film to watch on this list — you won’t find anything here that resembles the beautiful, sweeping shots of Amélie — but it is essential viewing for those who want an understanding of the darker side of the country they’re planning to visit. 

Wendy Ide of The Times perhaps stated it best in her review “ La Haine is one of the most blisteringly effective pieces of urban cinema ever made”. With praise like that, how could we not include it as one of the best movies set in France?

Leaving the dark corners of the city for the exposed and open landscapes of the country, Portrait of a Lady on Fire , released in 2020, is one of the most beautiful and impactful French films in recent memory.

Directed by French filmmaker Céline Sciamma and starring actresses Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel, the film is a historical romance movie, though its themes are far more wide-reaching than that alone.

The beautiful shots of the water and land, shot in Saint-Pierre-Quiberon in Brittany, are some of the most stunning we’ve ever seen, and if they don’t compel you to take a train to the modern French countryside, we hardly know what will.

Telling the inspiring true story of a rich aristocrat who becomes great friends with his hired caretaker, The Intouchables is one of the most commercially successful French films of all time.

However, the movie is so much more than a moneymaker, and the heartwarming tale of friendship and love at its center is sure to resonate with all audiences. It helps too, of course, that the film features a number of impressive and awe-inspiring shots of the French world.

Seeing François Cluzet and Omar Sy go on a wild paragliding adventure through the French Alps is all we need to book our tickets to France today.

The story in 2016’s Paris Can Wait is one that we can only hope to experience someday — an impromptu road trip through the French countryside sounds exactly like what we all could use right now. Starring Alec Baldwin alongside Diane Lane, this light romance movie is not the best-reviewed film on the list, but it certainly captures the French imagination as well as any other movie set in the country.

Much of the landscape footage feels documentary in nature, and it makes sense, as director Elanor Coppala had only directed nonfiction films up until this point in her career.

An iconic novel and medium-defining musical, Les Misérables the film may not have as much staying power as the sources on which it is based, but if you’re looking for a movie to show you the slums of the city up close and personal (we’re not sure why you’d be looking for that but stick with us) then 2012’s version of the Les Misérables epic is the film for you.

The film was met with quite a bit of criticism from critics and fans alike upon release, but one thing is for certain when it comes to Les Misérables, the set design was not the problem. For this reason, we’ve included it on the list. You can say as much as you want about Russel Crowe’s tenure as Javert (heaven knows plenty of other folks on the internet have written enough about that), but the backgrounds and scenery of Les Misérables the film bring the story together in a way unmatched by any version of the tale before.

It’s almost as if you can smell the wet and dingy streets that the characters are singing on and, while we certainly wouldn’t want to spend much time on them in that state, many of those same locations and areas still exist today and are absolutely ready for you to visit now!

The Da Vinci Code is not a good film. We know this, you know this, and almost anyone who has seen the film probably knows this as well. However, The Da Vinci Code is an incredibly enjoyable film, and it just so happens to take place, in part in France, so we’ve added it here at the tail end of our French-set movie list.

The inside look at The Louvre at the outset of the film is incredibly fun to watch, and even though Tom Hanks and company eventually leave French borders, the convoluted tale is irreversibly tied to France. We also like the Da Vinci Code because it features a few locations that aren’t always seen in movies about Paris. The Da Vinci code seems like a film that couldn’t stay away from the Eifel Tower if it tried, but, surprisingly, the locations we visit in the film are all, for the most part, accurate and lesser-known.

We can’t guarantee you’ll make any life-changing religious discoveries at these locations of course, but, and we can’t believe we’re saying this either, if you use The Da Vinci Code as your guide to Paris, you’ll end up on a shockingly comprehensive tour of the city.

So, there it is! Our top 12 films to get your wanderlust stirred up in the direction of the city of love. Have you booked your flight yet? Gotten a train ticket?

These dozen movies all depict and explore the country of France in different manners, but they all, in some way, respect and honor the country that attracts so many. Happy watching, and happy travels!

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10 French Movies That Can Transport You to Paris

With trans-Atlantic travel all but suspended, the closest you can get to Paris may be onscreen. These movies will take you there.

By Jason Farago

While your travel plans may be on hold, you can pretend you’re somewhere new for the night. Around the World at Home invites you to channel the spirit of a new place each week with recommendations on how to explore the culture, all from the comfort of your home.

“America is my country, and Paris is my hometown,” wrote Gertrude Stein. Me too; or, well, almost. For the last few years I was shuttling between New York and the French capital, where my now-husband worked, and in that time Paris came to feel like a city where I had history, whose streets I could navigate by muscle memory. Now that trans-Atlantic travel is all but suspended, the closest I can get to Paris is onscreen — but, luckily, the view is fantastic.

Paris was the site of the first movie screening, back in 1895 (though the Lumière Brothers shot those first pictures in Lyon). It remains the home of Europe’s largest, most vibrant film industry — France exports more movies than any country, bar the United States.

Here I’ve picked 10 movies that transport me back to Paris, from the early days of sound cinema to the age of streaming. I’ve omitted many French movies made in English, some shot on soundstages (“An American in Paris,” “Moulin Rouge!”) and others on location (“ Funny Face ,” “Midnight in Paris”). Instead I’ve selected films I rely on when I want to escape America for Paris … which is quite often these days.

Girlhood (2014)

Paris today is so much more than its touristic, tree-lined core; it’s continental Europe’s most diverse city, where French mingles with Arabic and Wolof and you’re more likely to hear Afro trap than Édith Piaf. This assured coming-of-age film by Céline Sciamma follows a young Black teenager as she shuttles across the racial, economic and cultural divides between Paris proper (or “Paname,” in the girls’ slang) and its suburban housing estates, whose architecture the director films with rare style and sympathy. Aubervilliers, Bondy, Mantes-la-Jolie, Aulnay-sous-Bois: these nodes of Greater Paris, birthplace of singers and stylists and the world’s greatest soccer players , deserve the spotlight too.

Amazon, YouTube, Google Play, iTunes

35 Shots of Rum (2008)

The most intimate and most Parisian film of Claire Denis , very probably France’s greatest living director, follows a widowed father, who is a train driver, and his only daughter, a student, as they hesitantly step away from each other and into new lives. The cast (including Mati Diop , who’s since become an acclaimed director herself) is almost entirely of African or Caribbean origin, yet this is the rare film that takes Paris’s diversity as a given, and its portraits of Parisians in the working-to-middle-class north of the capital have a fullness and benevolence that remain too rare in the French cinema. Just as beautiful as its scenes of family life are Ms. Denis’s frequent, lingering shots of the RER, Paris’s suburban commuter railway, which appears here as a bridge between worlds.

Love Songs (2007)

The near entirety of this gray-steeped musical — directed by Christophe Honoré and with a dozen tunes written by the singer-songwriter Alex Beaupain — takes place in the gentrifying but still scruffy 10th Arrondissement , where I put back a few too many drinks in my 20s. As its young lovers sing on some of Paris’s least photogenic streets, on their Ikea couches or in their overlit offices, the capital turns into something even more alluring than the City of Light of foreign fantasies. This is the film to watch if you miss everyday life in contemporary Paris, where even the overcast days merit a song.

Hulu, Amazon

Full Moon in Paris (1984)

Paris had a very good 80s: think Louvre Pyramid, think Concorde, think Christian Lacroix . Éric Rohmer’s tale of an independent young woman, keen to hang onto both her boyfriend and her apartment, offers the most chic dissection of Parisian youth — big-haired models dancing in Second Empire ballrooms, and lovers philosophizing at cafe tables and one another’s beds. There’s a killer ’80s score by the electropop duo Elli et Jacno , but what makes its beauty so bittersweet is its sublime star Pascale Ogier , who died shortly after the film’s completion, age 25.

Amazon, YouTube, iTunes

C’était un rendez-vous (1976)

It’s just eight minutes long, it has no dialogue, but this is the wildest movie ever made in Paris; it’s a miracle that no one died. Early one morning, the director Claude Lelouch got in his Mercedes, fastened a camera to the bumper, and just floored it : down the broad Avenue Foch (where he clocks 125 miles an hour), through the Louvre, past the Opéra, through red lights and around blind corners and even onto the sidewalks, to the heights of Sacré-Cœur. Every time I watch it I end up covering my eyes and then laughing at the insanity of it all: cinéma vérité at top speed.

Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962)

It’s 5 p.m. on June 21, the longest day of the year, and the pop singer Cléo has gone to a fortune teller to find out: is she dying? And for the rest of Agnès Varda’s incomparable slice of life we follow her in real time — one minute onscreen equals one minute in the narrative — across the capital’s left bank. She walks past the cafes of Montparnasse, down the wide Haussmannian boulevards and into the Parc Montsouris, where she meets a soldier on leave from the front in Algeria: another young Parisian uncertain if he’ll live another year. As Cléo puts her superstitions aside , the streets of Varda’s Paris serve as the accelerant for a woman’s self-confidence.

HBO Max, Criterion Channel

Breathless (1960)

Jean-Luc Godard’s first feature is so celebrated for its innovative jump-cuts and careering narrative that we forget: this is, hands down, the greatest film ever made about an American in Paris. As the exchange student hawking the New York Herald Tribune on the Champs-Élysées, Jean Seberg invests the movie with a breezy expatriate glamour, feigning French insouciance but hanging onto American wonder. And if her language skills are iffy — my French husband imitates Seberg’s Franglais when he wants to mock my accent — she embodies the dream of becoming someone new in Paris, even if you fall for the wrong guy.

HBO Max, Criterion Channel, YouTube, iTunes

Bob le flambeur (1956)

The suavest of all Paris gangster films — and my go-to movie for days sick in bed — orbits around the handsome narrow streets of hillside Montmartre and, just south, the seedy nightclubs and gambling dens of Pigalle. Bob, the elegant, white-haired “high roller” of the title, is a retired bank robber after one last big score, but Paris’s old underground, and its old codes of loyalty, are fading away. The cast is undeniably B-list, and genre conventions cling to their roles like barnacles: the world-weary but wise cafe proprietress, the hooker with a heart of gold. But watch as Melville’s hand-held camera trails Bob in his trench coat and fedora, or follows a garbage truck around the Place Pigalle like a ball in a roulette wheel. Paris looks like a jackpot.

Casque d’or (1952)

We’re in Paris’s working-class northeast in this aching period drama of the belle epoque, directed by Jacques Becker and starring Simone Signoret as the titular golden-haired prostitute caught between two lovers. It’s based on a true story of a courtesan and the gang murders she inspired — but Mr. Becker paints the scene like a dream of the 19th-century capital, of cobblestoned alleyways, smoke-choked bistros and horse-drawn paddy wagons.

Criterion Channel

Boudu Saved From Drowning (1931)

Jean Renoir’s early satire stars Michel Simon as a prodigiously bearded tramp who, one fine morning, walks halfway across the Pont des Arts and jumps into the Seine. Saved by a kindly bookseller, Boudu moves into his apartment and promptly turns his family’s life upside down . The movie’s skewering of middle-class values has not lost its bite, but its outdoor shots of the Latin Quarter, a university neighborhood not yet overrun by tourist-trap cafes, have become a poignant time capsule.

Criterion Channel, Kanopy

To keep up with upcoming stories in this series, sign up for our At Home newsletter .

Jason Farago , critic at large for The Times, writes about art and culture in the U.S. and abroad. In 2017 he was awarded the inaugural Rabkin Prize for art criticism. More about Jason Farago

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15 Best French Movies That Will Transport You To Paris

Here are the 15 best French movies to watch that will inspire your next trip to France and to Paris ! I’ve gathered the best French movies set in Paris you can watch on Netflix or on Amazon Prime Video . Whether you’re thinking of learning French or you want to get familiar with the French accent, those french movies below are perfect for that!

French romantic comedy, fantasy adventure, mystery thriller or biographical films, there’s a French movie for every mood and every occasion. Discover 15 movies set in Paris that will make you laugh, cry, get angry, and more importantly get you excited about a trip there!

15 French Movies That Will Inspire You To Visit Paris

1. la vie en rose.

La Vie En Rose is a 2007 French biographical musical film about the life of French singer Édith Piaf. The film stars Marion Cotillard as Édith Piaf. Marion Cotillard’s performance earned her several accolades including the Academy Award, the BAFTA Award, the Golden Globe Award, and the César Award. The film tells the story of the life of Édith Piaf through several non-linear series of key events. The film begins with elements from her childhood, and at the end with events surrounding her death. Definitely one of the best French movies to watch before visiting Paris!

Amélie ( Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain in French) is a 2001 French romantic comedy film directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. The film is a whimsical depiction of contemporary Parisian life, set in Montmartre. It tells the story of a shy waitress, played by Audrey Tautou, who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better. The film received critical acclaim and was a major box office success. It’s one of the biggest international successes for a French movie.

3. The Intouchables

The Intouchables is a 2011 French comedy-drama film directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano. The film won the César Award for Best Actor for Omar Sy and garnered seven nominations for the César Awards. The Intouchables is a story about a Parisian aristocrat quadriplegic who hires a young man to be his live-in caretaker. Although very different the two men bond and develop a close friendship. One of the best and funniest French movies to watch before going to Paris!

4. Midnight In Paris

Midnight in Paris is a 2011 fantasy comedy film written and directed by Woody Allen. The film follows Gil Pender, a screenwriter, who needs to confront the shortcomings of his relationship with his materialistic fiancée. The film stars Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, Adrien Brody, Carla Bruni, Marion Cotillard, and Michael Sheen. In 2012, the film won both the Oscar, the Golden Globe, and was nominated for three other Academy Awards.

5. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a 2007 American computer-animated comedy film produced by Pixar and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The title refers to the French dish ratatouille and also references the animal type of the main character, a rat. The plot follows a rat named Remy, who dreams of becoming a chef and tries to achieve his goal by forming an alliance with a Parisian restaurant’s garbage boy.

6. Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent is a 2014 French biographical drama film directed by Jalil Lespert. The film is based on the life of Yves Saint Laurent from 1958. It stars Pierre Niney, Guillaume Gallienne, Charlotte Le Bon, Laura Smet, Marie de Villepin, Xavier Lafitte, and Nikolai Kinski.  The film received seven nominations at the 40th César Awards, winning Best Actor for Pierre Niney.

7. See You Up There

See You Up There is a 2017 French drama film adapted from the novel  The Great Swindle by Pierre Lemaitre. In November 1918, a few days before the Armistice, Edouard Péricourt saves Albert Maillard’s life. The two men have nothing in common but the war. Lieutenant Pradelle, by ordering a senseless assault, destroys their lives while binding them as companions in misfortune. On the ruins of the carnage of WWI, condemned to live, the two attempt to survive.

8. The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec

The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec is a 2010 French fantasy adventure feature film by Luc Besson. It is loosely based on the comic book series  The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec  by Jacques Tardi. Adèle Blanc-Sec, a journalist and travel writer of some fame, finds herself involved after returning from Egypt, where she was searching for Ramesses II’s mummified doctor Patmosis. She wants to revive the mummy with the help of Espérandieu so the doctor can save her sister Agathe, who is comatose following an unfortunate tennis incident involving a hatpin. One of the best family-friendly French movie set in Paris in the 1920s.

9. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer is a 2006 German psychological thriller film starring Ben Whishaw, Alan Rickman, Rachel Hurd-Wood, and Dustin Hoffman. The screenplay is based on Patrick Süskind’s 1985 novel  Perfume . Set in 18th century France, the film tells the story of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, an olfactory genius, and his homicidal quest for the perfect scent. The film begins with the sentencing of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille a notorious murderer. Between the reading of the sentence and the execution, the movie tells the story of his life in flashback.

10. OSS 117: Cairo, Nest of Spies

OSS 117: Cairo, Nest of Spies is a 2006 French spy comedy film directed by Michel Hazanavicius. It stars Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, and Aure Atika. In 1955, the film follows the exploits of the French secret agent OSS 117, as he’s going to Cairo to investigate the disappearance of his friend Jack Jefferson. Cairo, Nest of Spies  is based on the OSS 117 novel series by Jean Bruce but acts as a parody of the spy genre rather than a faithful adaptation. It depicts OSS 117 as an idiotic Frenchman with narrow-minded views on race, religion, and gender roles.

11. La Haine

La Haine is a 1995 French black-and-white drama film written, and directed by Mathieu Kassovitz. It is about three young friends and their struggle to live in the  banlieues  of Paris. La Haine  opens with news footage of urban riots in a banlieue in the commune of Chanteloup-les-Vignes near Paris. The riot is due to the attack of Abdel Ichacha, leading to an attack on the police station. The film depicts approximately twenty consecutive hours in the lives of three friends of Abdel, living in the aftermath of the riot.

12. Marie Antoinette

Marie Antoinette  is a 2006 historical comedy-drama film written and directed by Sofia Coppola and starring Kirsten Dunst. It is based on the life of Queen Marie Antoinette in the years leading up to the French Revolution. It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design. Fourteen-year-old Maria Antonia is the beautiful, charming, and naïve Archduchess of Austria, youngest of Empress Maria-Theresa’s daughters. In 1770, she arrives at the Palace of Versailles to marry the future Louis XVI and to seal an alliance between the two rival countries.

13. Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge is a 2001 jukebox musical romantic drama film co-written by Baz Luhrmann. The film tells the story of a young English poet, Christian who falls in love with the star of the Moulin Rouge, cabaret actress Satine. It uses the musical setting of the Montmartre Quarter of Paris, France. The film was nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Nicole Kidman.

14. The Da Vinci Code

The Da Vinci Code is a 2006 American mystery thriller film based on Dan Brown’s best-selling novel. In the movie, Robert Langdon, a professor of religious symbology from Harvard University, is the prime suspect in the murder of Louvre curator Jacques Saunière. In the body, the police find a disconcerting cipher and start an investigation. A British Grail historian named Sir Leigh Teabing tells them that the actual Holy Grail is explicitly encoded in Leonardo da Vinci’s wall painting,  The Last Supper .

15. Paris, I Love You

Paris, I Love You is a 2006 anthology film starring an ensemble cast of actors of various nationalities. The two-hour film consists of eighteen short films set in different arrondissements. Those eighteen short films represent 18 different arrondissements of Paris.

5 Best French Family-Friendly Movies Set In Paris

• A Monster In Paris
• The Hunchback of Notre Dame
• The Aristocats

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10 Movies to Transport You to France

The Best Movies About Paris

If you are missing Paris, here are a few of my favorite movies to transport you to France. How many have you seen? Do you have a favorite movie you watch on repeat? These are the best movies about Paris to transport you for an afternoon.

When I am about to board a plane to Paris and on the plane, my two favorites to watch are Sabrina and Midnight in Paris.

I prefer the new version vs the old (with Audrey Hepburn) because Sabrina is a photographer instead of a cook (old version). I love the introduction, it is so well done and I immediately have to sit in front of the tv and watch the whole movie through to the end. I love picking out all locations in Paris as I watch it. The love story is beautiful!

Midnight in Paris

If you are reading this blog post and you haven’t seen Midnight in Paris, you have permission to click out and turn it on. I promise I won’t be mad. Gil is enchanted with Paris as much as I feel I am so I completely understand his character. Again, this one has a great introduction that is beautifully shot. If you don’t like Woody Allen movies you can skip it. It is quirky and funny but it has the right balance that will carry you through the very end to the last line of the movie. “Actually,  Paris  is the  most beautiful in the rain. ”

A Good Year

I first saw this movie on a date and I was immediately drawn in by the cinematography and the light, plus Russell Crowe isn’t bad to look at 😉 The date wasn’t a keeper, but this movie has been one of my favorites ever since. The film takes you to the South of France and if you aren’t convinced to take a trip in the Summer to Provence yet, you will be by the end.

French Kiss

I first saw this movie when I was younger way before I ever went to Paris and it made me want to go even more. I loved Sleepless in Seattle and seeing Meg Ryan in a film about Paris sold it for me. This is an oldie 1995 but the soundtrack is great and so is the movie.

Ratatouille

My niece and nephew adore this movie and they would be mad if I didn’t include it on the list. If you have kids, this is a great one to watch together. It is an adorable story set about a rat that moves to Paris to follow his dream of being a chef. It’s a Pixar animation.

Moulin Rouge

The story is about love at The Moulin Rouge starring Nichole Kidman. You will want to listen to the soundtrack for days afterward and sing along. “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.”

Forget Paris

This movie stars Billy Crystal and features Paris in a flashback sequence of a love story. This movie may not be on your radar (it’s from 1995) but it should be. It is a feel-good movie that will have you on the edge of your seat to find out how the love story ends.

The Red Balloon

In 2013, I started a project with red balloons in Paris. I just had this vision in my head and I had to have it come to life. Several friends in Paris told me I needed to see the movie, The Red Balloon. It is 34 minutes long and perfect for small kids to watch on a rainy afternoon. It is a simple story about a boy and his balloon that will capture your attention.

I couldn’t do a movie roundup without a nod to Audrey Hepburn. Funny Face takes place in Paris and includes Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn for singing and dancing numbers. The combination along with the backdrop of Paris and the fashion makes it a must-see movie at least once.

Julie and Julia

This is one of my favorites on the list and it always seems to be on the plane on the way to Paris. I can relate so much to this movie with Julie who writes a blog about trying all of Julia Child’s recipes in Mastering the Art of French Cooking. The story goes back and forth from Brooklyn (Julie) to France (Julia) covering their story and how they eventually intertwine at the end.

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Gigi! One of my all time favorites. I love your list. Have seen them all many times! Also, 2 days in Paris by Julie Delpy.

Love each of these movies! Also very excited for the upcoming Julia Child mini-series and documentary.

My husband and I adore Midnight in Paris and our 5 year old is obsessed with Ratatouille!!! Great list!

Thank you! My niece and nephew love Ratatouille too! It is a great way to get the kids to start dreaming of Paris. They call me their “little chef” since I am always in the kitchen and they love to help me cook/bake!

French Kiss, Ratatouille, Sabrina(both versions!) Forget Paris are some of my favs too!

Currently watching Midnight in Paris. It’s great! I love your blog!

Thank you, Catherine! It is such a fun move to watch.

Are you watching call my agent on Netflix? Love letter to everything French

Please find Until September from 1984 and enjoy the Paris locales. Cute story, but the locations are fantastic. Viewed this gem on cable several times in the mid 80’s and would binge watch again.

I love Two for the Road with Audrey Hepburn too. A lovely road trip through France 😊

I haven’t seen it! Adding it to my list. Merci!

I’m so glad you included Forget Paris! I think it’s an underrated gem for sure. It came out the same year as French Kiss (my all-time fave Rom-Com). Those two are significant for me because it was in 1995 that I first visited France and so my love affair began. I’m so glad I was able to celebrate not only my 50th birthday, but my first Christmas in Paris, my 25th year of loving France and my 20th trip there this past December (and first time NOT riding the metro, might I add)! Your blog is helping me get through the uncertainty of when I’ll visit next.

Thank you so much, Rebecca, for taking me to Paris through these ten movie trailers. They made me laugh and it felt good to laugh during these stressful times. I have seen 7 of these movies out of the ten. I was a high school French teacher for 29 years and I always showed THE RED BALLOON to my students. I so love France and particularly Paris. I go there at least once a year and take lots of pictures to last me through the year back in the US. AND I READ YOUR BLOG!!!! Thank you so very much for your ever lovely website and taking me to my second home. Merci mille fois……….

Hi Phyllis,

I am so happy you loved the movie post and all the trailers. It was fun to put together. I had a much longer list but thought 10 was a good amount 🙂 Are there any you will watch that you haven’t seen?

Thank you so much for reading! I will transport you back to Paris anytime you need it.

Stay safe and well, Rebecca

I love watching the movie “Amélie” before every trip to Paris.

Yes, "Amélie" is a great movie! I watched it while I lived in Montmartre and would pass the same spots on my walk.

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Movies to watch before you visit France

By Naomi Dalton

A great way to start immersing yourself in French culture and language before visiting France is to watch a few French movies or movies set in France. The first French-language film I ever watched was Les Visiteurs with actor Jean Reno (of Leon fame). We were in French class at school and our teacher let us watch the film as it was the last double lesson before we finished for the holidays. Prior to that, I’d always been too lazy to watch foreign language films - reading the subtitles seemed like too much work! 

But we all found Les Visiteurs very funny (and certainly preferable to doing French grammar exercises!). It was about a Gallic knight and his dim-witted servant who were transported from 12-Century medieval France to the year 1993 after a wizard’s spell goes wrong. Their endeavors to get to grips with their new reality, their interactions with modern life and the people around them, and their attempts to get back to where (and when) they came from is highly entertaining - and if it can impress a 15-year-old British kid, I’m sure you’ll love it! 

That began my love affair with French cinema and anything to do with France in general. Other personal favorites of mine include Amélie , Midnight in Paris, Les Choristes and Intouchables.

Here is a list of films we’ve put together which we think will help bring France and the French language alive for you. We’ve included a range of comedies, historical movies, and English-language films set in France, to cater for a range of tastes. Enjoy!

Movie Trailer of Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris (Sony Pictures Classics)

Old French Classics

Les tontons flingueurs (monsieur gangster) (1963) .

This black and white French classic is really funny, especially the dialog. When former gangster Fernand (Lino Ventura) receives a call from a dying friend, a mob boss nicknamed "The Mexican", asking him to take care of some criminal business as well as his soon-to-be-married daughter, he reluctantly accepts. Some of the fellow mobsters aren’t too pleased about this outsider coming onto the scene, however, and come after him. Fernand is more than capable of defending himself against the onslaught of the mob, and this results in a series of comical killings.

La Grande Vadrouille (Don't Look Now - We're Being Shot at) (1966) 

Not convinced by the direct translation of the original French title (‘The Great Stroll’), this movie was released in the US under the name ‘Don’t Look Now - We’re Being Shot At’, which gives a more direct references to the themes of the film. 

Arguably one of the best French movies of all time, La Grand Vadrouille combines adventure, comedy and WWII, and held the box office sales record in French movie theaters until Titanic in 1997. In this movie, several ordinary Frenchmen help British WWII pilots avoid Nazi capture, and go on epic journey through occupied France until they reach the Swiss border.

Un Homme et une Femme (A Man and a Woman) (1966) 

The definition of a French movie classic, Un Homme et une Femme is certainly one for those who enjoy an old-fashioned romantic black and white movie. In this film, a widow and a widower find their feelings for each other extend beyond friendship. However, they are both afraid to commit due to their past tragedies, so they decide to take things slowly.

La Fille de d’Artagnan (Revenge of the Musketeers) (1994) 

In France in 1654, musketeer D'Artagnan's daughter is being raised in a convent. When the mother superior is murdered, Eloïse suspects a plot to murder the king. In an attempt to prevent the assassination and avenge the murder, she goes out in search of her father and the three musketeers. Starring French actress Sophie Marceau (also of ‘Braveheart’ fame).

Le Hussard sur le Toit (The Horseman on the Roof) (1995) 

Based on a novel by Jean Giono and adapted by JP Rappeneau, this movie stars Juliette Binoche (also of Chocolat fame) and Olivier Martinez. It will take you back to the beginning of the 19th century in Provence during the plague epidemic. In a time of war and disease, a young officer bravely tries to help a young woman find her missing husband.

Movie trailer of La Grand Vadrouille (Don't Look Now - We're Being Shot At!) (Studio Canal UK, YouTube)

Very famous comedies

Humor from different countries doesn’t always translate well (hence the term ‘lost in translation’). But these movies make references to French people that everyone can somehow relate to. 

Les Bronzés or Les Bronzés font du ski (French Fried Vacation 1 & 2) (1978-9) 

This is a parody movie highlighting the flaws of the French middle class during the 70s. French vacationers arrive at a typical ‘Club Med’ tourist resort on the Ivory Coast in West Africa, determined to forget their everyday problems and emotional disappointments. Games, competitions, outings, sunbathing and sunburn are intertwined with a succession of casual affairs. In the second movie, the vacationers return, but this time to a skiing resort. Both movies are filmed in a ‘Mockumentary’ style.

Les Visiteurs (The Visitors) (1993)

A French knight (Jean Reno) and his dim-witted servant are transported from 12-Century medieval France to the year 1993 after a sorcerer’s magic spell goes wrong. They embark upon a hilarious journey as they try to understand the modern world and people around them, search for their descendants, and try to get back to where (and when) they came from.

Le Diner de Cons (The Dinner Game) (1998) 

You might have heard of the American remake of this movie called Dinner for Schmucks in 2010 with Steve Carrel. The French original (which we prefer to the remake) was the top grossing French film at the French box office for 1998, in second place overall behind Titanic. Pierre Brochant, a Parisian publisher , attends a weekly "idiots' dinner", where guests, prominent Parisian businessmen, must bring along an "idiot" for the other guests to ridicule. At the end of the dinner, the evening's "champion idiot” is selected. But as Pierre’s life begins to fall apart during the film, it is his ‘idiot’ who stands by him.

Tanguy (2001) 

Tanguy is a 28-year-old teenager who doesn’t want to leave his parents’ home, so they hatch a plan to get him out. Today in France, we call such a person a “Tanguy” because of this movie!

Intouchables (2011) 

One of the biggest successes in French cinema. This is a very touching comedy about difference (disability, race etc). After he becomes a quadriplegic following a paragliding accident, Phillippe, an aristocrat, hires Driss, a young man from the projects, to be his caregiver.

Movie trailer of Intouchables (Movieclips Trailers, YouTube)

French Historical movies

The longest day (1962) .

The Longest Day is a black-and-white film account of the D-Day events in 1944, told on a grand scale from both the Allied and German perspectives. To reflect this, the film had three directors: Ken Annakin for the British and French exteriors, Andrew Marton for the American exteriors, and Bernhard Wicki for the German scenes. It stars many well-known acting legends, including Henry Fonda, Sean Connery, Richard Burton, John Wayne and Roddy McDowell. This will be a particularly interesting film if you’re planning to visit the D-Day beaches in Normandy on your trip to France.

The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) 

An interesting film to watch if you plan to visit Rouen in Normandy, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. This movie stars actors Milla Jovavich and John Malkovich, and tells the story of Joan of Arc, the 15th century French war heroine and religious martyr. The story begins with young Joan as she witnesses the atrocities of the English against her family. She subsequently has visions that inspire her to lead the French in battle against the occupying English forces. Her success against the English allows Charles VII to take the throne. Eventually, Joan is captured by the English, tried and executed for heresy. 

Renoir (2012) 

A movie about the famous painter’s life. In Paris, you will be able to visit the famous Renoir museum.

Marie Antoinette (2005) 

You may like to watch this film particularly if you’re planning a visit to the Palace of Versailles just outside of Paris. Marie Antoinette was directed by Sofia Coppola and starred actress Kirsten Dunst. It’s an account of the life of France's most iconic but ill-fated queen, Marie Antoinette. The film depicts her betrothal and marriage to Louis XVI at the age of 15, her reign as queen at age 19, the end of her reign, and ultimately the fall of Versailles. 

The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)

Starring Leonardo Di Caprio, John Malkovich, Gérard Depardieu and Jeremy Irons, The Man in the Iron Mask is about the legend that King Louis XIV had a twin brother that was being imprisoned to keep him from governing the country. In fact, if you are visiting the French Riviera, we can arrange for you to visit the island and the former prison where the prisoner was held, just off the coast of Cannes. 

Coco Avant Chanel (Coco Before Chanel) (2009) 

Another French-language film starring French actress Audrey Tautou (who starred in the major film Amélie. This film gives an account of how Coco Chanel became one of the most famous haute couture designers of all time.

Movie trailer of Coco Before Chanel (Sony Pictures Classics)

French Ambiance Movies

Le fabuleux destin d’amélie poulain (amélie) (2001) .

Directed by well-known French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, starring Audrey Tautou. This film is a must if you are visiting Paris! It includes very nice scenes of Montmartre and a great romantic love story. Amélie is an innocent and naive girl in Paris with her own sense of justice. She decides to help those around her and finds love along the way - but can she find the courage to let love into her life?

Paris, Je t’aime (Paris, I Love You) (2006) 

Another lovely movie to watch if you’re visiting Paris. Through the neighborhoods of Paris, love is veiled, revealed, imitated, burned out, reinvented and awakened. In Paris, love is all around.

A Good Year (2006) 

A movie by Ridley Scott starring Russel Crowe and Albert Finney. A lovely film to watch if you’ll be visiting Provence, as it includes some very pretty scenes of the region. A British investment banker inherits his uncle's chateau and vineyard in Provence, where he spent much of his childhood. He discovers a new laid-back lifestyle as he tries to renovate the estate to be sold.

Midnight in Paris (2011) 

A gorgeous portrayal of Paris in this outstanding movie by Woody Allen with an all-star cast. featuring Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams, and French actress Marion Cotillard and former First Lady of France Carla Bruni. The movie is full of nostalgia as a successful screenwriter, Gil, dreams of moving to Paris and becoming a novelist. By a touch of magic, he is astonished to find that he is able to travel back to 1920s Paris at the stroke of midnight each night to meet his literary idols. 

Moulin Rouge (2001)

Starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, Moulin Rouge will allow you to feel the cabaret ambiance of the 19th and early 20th century in Paris.

8 Femmes (8 Women) (2002) 

This French-language murder mystery film features some of the most famous French female artists. Set in the 1950s in an isolated mansion in the snowy French countryside, a family reunites for the holiday season. But there’s no time for celebration - their beloved patriarch has been murdered and the killer is one of the eight women closest to the man of the house. Funny situations arise as dark family secrets begin to be revealed. Eight women. Each a suspect. One of them is guilty. Who dunnit?

Ratatouille (2007) 

A nice animated movie about a rat who becomes a chef in a famous restaurant in Paris and befriends a young kitchen worker. 

Taxi (1998) 

Directed by Gérard Pirès and starring Samy Naceri and Marion Cotillard, Taxi is a comedy about a taxi driver in Marseilles (Samy Naceri) who avoids a speeding ticket by agreeing to serve as the arresting officer's (Frédéric Diefenthal) personal chauffeur. A French action movie with some funny moments.

Julie & Julia (2009) 

Starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams, this is a great movie about French cooking - perfect if you’ll be doing a cooking class on your trip to France! Julia Child's story of her start in the cooking profession is intertwined with blogger Julie Powell's 2002 challenge to cook all the recipes in Child's first book.

Movie trailer of A Good Year (Fox International, YouTube)

We hope you enjoy watching some of these movies, and if you don’t have a trip to France planned - we hope these inspire you to visit !

All of these movies are available to buy from Amazon.com

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A "Pinch Me" Tour. Expertly organised. We just spent the most wonderful month in France on our honeymoon curated by Laura and Emilie in such a way that we felt we experienced the very essence of France. From the Loire Valley, through the Biarritz area, the Basque region and finally to Provence. The itinerary gave us so many "pinch me" moments that …

A "Pinch Me" Tour. Expertly organised. We just spent the most wonderful month in France on our honeymoon curated by Laura and Emilie in such a way that we felt we experienced the very essence of France. From the Loire Valley, through the Biarritz area, the Basque region and finally to Provence. The itinerary gave us so many "pinch me" moments that we lost count.The whole trip was just what we wanted, traveling at our own pace, selecting where we wanted to go and when, expertly guided by the FJFY personalised app which included so many fantastic day trip options from each of our accommodations, all of which have been tried and tested by Laura and Emilie. We can't think of a better way to have traveled and cannot recommend France Just For You more highly.

My wife & I completed a 2 week self-driving tour engaging the thorough and knowledgeable services of Emilie A France Just for You. Every detail was flawlessly accounted for, GPS app, wonderful B&B's, and she planned our itinerary according to our desires. The advantage of enlisting her is to get a reality check on time spent in each area as well as …

My wife & I completed a 2 week self-driving tour engaging the thorough and knowledgeable services of Emilie A France Just for You. Every detail was flawlessly accounted for, GPS app, wonderful B&B's, and she planned our itinerary according to our desires. The advantage of enlisting her is to get a reality check on time spent in each area as well as driving distances. We had so much ground to cover that she made this an efficient trip. Too bad LeMans track was not open for viewing(had a truck race that nite, so is closed to visitors). But museum was awesome. All her chosen accommodations were wonderful & it saved me tons of hours of research. She arranged our day to day visits and was extremely flexible & enabled me to drive the 1200 miles in an efficient manner. That was very important to me, as I prefer to travel alone with my wife rather than a group, and our journey was as smoothe as a Swiss timepiece. She chose places to visit that were off the beaten path that we would have missed on our own. Highly recommend Emilie.

I can echo everything that has been said in the previous three reviews. The personalization of this entire trip was incredible and Emilie communicated quickly and completely, both in the planning of the trip and after we were in France. My husband and I were spending four weeks in France in celebration of our 50th anniversary. We were a little …

I can echo everything that has been said in the previous three reviews. The personalization of this entire trip was incredible and Emilie communicated quickly and completely, both in the planning of the trip and after we were in France. My husband and I were spending four weeks in France in celebration of our 50th anniversary. We were a little reluctant to take a trip this long and do this much driving but Emilie's planning and suggestions were so great that we never had any problems. And she arranged the best bed and breakfasts possible. All of the hosts were wonderful and we had some very good dinners around a table with many people from other countries, which was one of the reasons why we wanted to stay at bed and breakfasts. Our tour guides were amazing and at two different places Emilie had left personal notes and gifts. That is just the type of person she is. We asked Emilie if we could meet her and we were fortunate enough to be able to do that in her hometown of Langeais. She is just was delightful as you would expect her to be and she spent over an hour with us. It was one of the highlights of our trips. Every day we had to pinch ourselves that we were doing all of these fabulous things from Paris, to Normandy, to Brittany, to the Loire Valley, to Burgundy, to Provence and to the French Riviera. As you can see, we covered a lot of territory because of Emilie's willingness to customize our trip so that we could see a lot of France. We agree with the suggestion to go with your own GPS. It certainly helps to know how to use it before you arrive. We also suggest that you book your trip well in advance so that Emilie has time to arrange the best bed and breakfasts and the best tour guides. We certainly felt like we had that and we booked our trip seven months ahead. And read your tour book(s) before you go. You will still refer to them each and every day but there is so much general information in the books that we found very helpful. We have NEVER had a better trip and it's because of Emilie. Thank you, Emilie, for truly giving us the trip of a lifetime. We have memories that will last forever because of you.

Customized Itinerary with Fantastic Service & Support for France Travel Laura and Emilie with France Just for You provided exactly the itinerary we asked for. We corresponded with them several times to develop exactly what we were interested in and it worked out beautifully. This saved us so much time! We even experienced some challenging airline …

Customized Itinerary with Fantastic Service & Support for France Travel Laura and Emilie with France Just for You provided exactly the itinerary we asked for. We corresponded with them several times to develop exactly what we were interested in and it worked out beautifully. This saved us so much time! We even experienced some challenging airline trouble and both Laura and Emilie were invaluable in helping with adjustments. We absolutely will be using their services again. I cannot recommend their support enough... If you want the trip of a lifetime or if you frequently visit France, they make it feel as if you've got friends there to help you in your travels. Merci beaucoup!

I am a planner by nature and my wife and I found that Emilie at France Just For You exceeded all of our expectations for our trip to France. The daily itineraries the restaurant recommendations things to see and even things not to see. The B&B's we stayed at were outstanding. She even planned a few surprises for us on some of our activities. Do not …

I am a planner by nature and my wife and I found that Emilie at France Just For You exceeded all of our expectations for our trip to France. The daily itineraries the restaurant recommendations things to see and even things not to see. The B&B's we stayed at were outstanding. She even planned a few surprises for us on some of our activities. Do not hesitate to use France Just For You if you are planning to visit France.

In May we travelled to France for our second trip with Emilie and France Just For You, and it was just as wonderful as our first adventure! Emilie's planning is so thorough and detailed that not a thing is left to chance. The B and B's were lovely and the hosts delightful; the routes were carefully planned to give us a complete taste of Southern …

In May we travelled to France for our second trip with Emilie and France Just For You, and it was just as wonderful as our first adventure! Emilie's planning is so thorough and detailed that not a thing is left to chance. The B and B's were lovely and the hosts delightful; the routes were carefully planned to give us a complete taste of Southern France; and the suggestions for restaurants, shopping and cultural activities were perfect. We completely trusted all of Emilie's suggestions and highly recommend her services!

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10 Best Movies About France

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 4, 2023 | France , Inspiration , Travel Tips

Are you fantasizing about falling in love in Paris, but travel restrictions are holding you back? If so, you might have to settle for a virtual vacation. What is that, you ask?

Virtual traveling is when you use the power of your imagination along with movies, books, and stories to travel somewhere. 

Yeah, we know it doesn’t sound quite so appealing as indulging in croissants with a view of the Eiffel tower.

However, for travel addicts who cannot get their fix right now, watching movies about France can help to satisfy your wanderlust somewhat. 

As you can imagine, many movies set in Paris are romance films.

However, there are many excellent movies based in France of all genres. So, whatever your film preference, one of these ten movies about France will have you feeling like you’re standing in a Parisian street yourself.

1. Amélie (2001)

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Available on Netflix? No

Despite being labeled a romantic comedy, Amelie is a unique, engaging story with incredible cinematography and innovative soundtracks.

Amelie is a young, naive Parisian girl who is essentially a dreamer with her own imaginative world. She decides to help those around her find happiness, and along the way, discovers love herself.

Amelie was filmed in Paris , mainly in the picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre. One of the most featured places in the film is the cafe where Amelie works. This is a real life café named Café des Deux Moulins.

Other iconic locations from the movie include Abbesses Metro Station and the Sacré-Coeur.

2. Chocolat (2000)

Genre: Romantic Drama

This French romantic drama is one of Johnny Depp’s lesser-known movies but is still well worth watching, especially if you’re a fan of Depp. It’s a romantic drama with a fair amount of comedic moments and is based on the novel by Joanne Harris.

Chocolat is about a nomadic mother and her daughter who move to a strictly religious French village. Here they challenge the views of the inhabitants of the town by making and selling chocolate during lent.

Most of Chocolat was filmed in France, in the medieval village of Flavigny-Sur-Ozerain in Burgundy. Additionally, some scenes were shot in the picturesque town Beynac-et-Cazena in Dordogne.

This photogenic village features a hilltop castle that sits over the Dordogne river.

3. Before Sunset (2004)

Before Sunset is an American production set in Paris. It is the sequel to the 1995 movie Before Sunrise, so if you have not seen the first movie, be sure to watch that one first.

In Before Sunrise, two strangers, Celine and Jesse, meet aboard an overnight train in Vienna, where they have a brief but profound encounter. Before Sunset picks up the story nine years later where they cross paths again in Paris. 

Before Sunset is one of the best movies about France because it was filmed entirely in Paris.

Therefore, whether you have had your own love story in the French City or dream of visiting, you’ll get to see a large part of the city during this 100-minute movie.

Some of the most iconic locations you’ll notice are Quai Henri-IV, Promenade Plantée, Le Pure Café, and the Shakespeare & Company Bookstore.

4. The Intouchables (2011)

Genre: Comedy/Drama

Available on Netflix? Yes

The Intouchables is a refreshing buddy comedy-drama about an unusual friendship between an immigrant and a French nobleman. The film is inspired by the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his French-Moroccan caregiver Abdel Sellou.

This heartwarming film shows us the beautiful side of humanity. Although it’s a tearjerker at times, there are many funny moments, too.

Most of the Intouchables is filmed in Paris and features some of the city’s most famous hotels, cafes, and landmarks, such as Hôtel d’Avaray, which is used as Philippe’s home.

Furthermore, one of the film’s most memorable scenes takes place at Mont Bisanne in Villard-sur-Doron.

5. Hugo (2011)

Genre: Adventure/Fantasy

Hugo is a genuinely unique fantasy film set in the 1930s about an orphan named Hugo who lives in the walls of a train station in Paris.

Hugo’s dream is to fix the automation of a clock tower that his late father worked on before passing away. The film has a strong theme of never giving up and will surely pull on your heartstrings!

Hugo was filmed both in France and the UK . All the French filming locations were in Paris, and it is one of the best movies with France landmarks featured in it.

You’ll see many recognisable sights, such as Théâtre de l’Athénée, Square de l’Opéra-Louis-Jouvet, and Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève. 

6. As Above, So Below (2014)

Genre: Horror/Thriller

As Above, So Below is an American-produced horror movie set in Paris. The movie’s main character is Archaeologist Scarlett Marlowe. She is searching for one of history’s greatest treasures, the Flamel’s Philosopher’s Stone, which is believed to grant eternal life.

When Scarlett learns her desired treasure is hidden underground in the Catacombs of Paris, she travels to the city with her crew. However, what they discover is a web of dark secrets. 

While this film does not display the country’s beauty, it is shot in the actual Catacombs of Paris. This small tunnel network holds the remains of more than six million people.

Parts of the Catacombs are open to the public, and it’s a popular yet eerie attraction in Paris. Therefore, if you like to visit spooky attractions while traveling, this is a fantastic film to watch ahead of your Paris trip.

7. Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)

Genre: Romance

The independent French production ‘Blue is the Warmest Color’ is not your typical romance. Instead, it’s the love story between a French teenager, Adele, and an older art student, Emma, with iconic blue hair.

Adele is desperate to find a boyfriend; however, her world changes when she meets this intriguing girl with blue hair. 

Emma guides Adele to discover desire and teaches her to assert herself as a woman. This award-winning film is controversial and erotic but does a fantastic job of addressing lesbianism in modern-day society.

Blue is the Warmest Color was filmed in the north of France in the region Nord-Pas-de-Calais. Some iconic locations are Place Richebé in Lille, La Piscine Museum in Roubaix, Lille-Flandres railway station and Le square Daubenton.

For anyone who has traveled around the north of France, this movie will undoubtedly make you feel nostalgic. 

8. Girlhood (2014)

Genre: Drama

Another female-focused French movie is Girlhood, a gritty coming-of-age tale about an African-French girl gang in a poor neighborhood in Paris.

The story centers around Marieme, who is the gang’s latest recruit. Lacking prospects and confidence, Marieme believes being part of the gang will lead to a better life. However, she soon realizes this is not the case. 

While this movie will probably not have you itching to book a flight, it will open your mind to another side of Paris. Likewise, you won’t see any famous landmarks, as the movie is filmed in the eastern suburb of Bagnolet.

However, some scenes are at the major complex La Défense and the Forum des Halles shopping mall.

9. Taken (2018)

Genre: Action/Thriller

Available on Netflix? Not in the USA

The 2018 action thriller Taken, which stars Liam Neeson, is one of the most popular movies set in Paris. The plot follows an ex-Secret Service agent who travels to Paris to search for his teenage daughter abducted by human traffickers.

Now, with a storyline like this, Taken is probably not the movie to watch if you’re looking for inspiration for your next vacation! Even so, it’s an incredible film that will have you on the edge of your seat the whole time.

Taken was filmed between The USA and France, with many scenes in Paris. One famous Parisian spot you might notice is Avenue des Champs-Élysées, often described as ‘the world’s most beautiful avenue.’ Some scenes were also filmed in Seine-Saint-Denis, just outside the capital city.

10. Les Misérables (2012)

Genre: Musical Drama

The epic musical film Les Miserables is based on the French historical novel by Victor Hugo. Set in 19th-century France, the film centers around Jean Valjean, an ex-prisoner who broke parole years ago.

To start a new life, Jean becomes the caretaker of a young orphaned girl. However, shortly after, his past comes back to haunt him. This almost 3-hour film displays the resilience and courage of the human spirit.

Moreover, the musical element significantly adds to the emotion of the story.

Unfortunately, despite being one of the most well-known movies set in France, much of Les Miserables was shot in the UK. However, some opening and closing scenes were filmed in Gourdon in the south of France , about five miles from Grasse.

Final Thoughts On Movies About France

You may be surprised at the diverse range of France movies that have been made.

Whether you want to relive your own love story in Paris or learn more about the country, watching movies about France is a great way to immerse yourself in French culture.

Want to watch more travel movies? Read one of the blog posts below:

• Best movies about Italy
• Best travel movies on Netflix
• Best movies about long-distance relationships

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Best Movies About Provence, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

There’s something magical about watching movies that are set in beautiful or historical surroundings. The backdrop can become a character on its own in these kinds of movies, providing a color and depth that would be impossible to achieve any other way.

You can probably remember watching a number of movies where the backdrop captured your attention as much as the plot. And there’s a good chance that one of these movies set in Provence, France , is on that list.

Best Movies in Provence

Beautiful and historical, movies about Provence can seem like they’re a world away from modern life. If you’ve never experienced this effect, then you can start here with this list.

You can also use this list of movies about Provence to sate your wanderlust for Southern France or as travel inspiration for your next trip to Provence.

A Good Year (2006)

A Good Year stars Russel Crowe and Marion Cotillard, but it’s the Luberon scenery that’s the real star here. It’s one of the best Provence movies for beautiful landscape shots and images of a small town that looks like it could come from every dream you’ve ever had about the French countryside.

This movie is based on the novel by Peter Mayle, and it follows failed London banker Max Skinner (Crowe), who inherits his uncle’s vineyard in Provence, where he spent many childhood holidays. When he arrives in Provence, ready to sell everything, Max meets an American woman who says she is his long-lost cousin and that the property is hers…

French locations were filmed at some of the most beautiful hilltop villages of Provence (Bonnieux, Cucuron, and Gordes in Vaucluse), Marseille , and Avignon .

Marius et Jeannette (1997)

Marius et Jeannette is one of the more bittersweet movies set in Provence. It stars Ariane Ascaride as Jeannette, a working-class single mother who works in a supermarket. The director is Robert Guédiguian, who was born and raised in Marseille , where the movie is set.

Jeannette is struggling to support her family with only her supermarket job salary, and she starts stealing paint from a cement factory to get by. This is where she meets Marius, a security guard, and starts a timid relationship and partnership that helps them both.

This is one of those movies in Provence that tells the story of ordinary people in an extraordinary way, and it’s both heart-melting and beautiful.

Jean de Florette (1986)

Based on the book of the same name by French writer Marcel Pagnol, Jean de Florette stars Daniel Auteuil, Gerard Dépardieu, and Yves Montand. It’s set in the small town of Mirabeau , though some scenes were shot in Vaugines and Sommières in the Gard.

The movie is set after the First World War and is a mesmerizing study of small-town life in France. It follows the adventures of Ugolin and his uncle trying to gain access to the spring in the neighbor property to water their flowers. To do this, they conspire to block the spring in order to bankrupt the owner and force him to sell.

This is one of the movies in Provence that you watch for the scenery, the subtle mastery of the actors, and the slow, peaceful turn of life in the French countryside.

And God Created Woman (1956)

This is one of the best movies about Provence simply because it stars the incandescent Brigitte Bardot. Set in St Tropez , a town relatively unknown at the time, the film threw Brigitte Bardot into the spotlight and put Provence and the French Riviera on the map as a holiday destination.

And God Created Woman is about the complicated love triangle between two brothers and Bardot. Bardot as Juliette enraptures numerous men from the wealthy to the naïve. She marries the brother of the man she’s in love with while continuing her wild behavior and putting herself and everyone around her at risk. The only question is, which man will she stay with in the end? 

This movie not only launched Brigitte Bardot, but it also pushed the limits of the depiction of sexuality in American cinema. Today, it seems relatively tame, but the beauty and charm of the French Riviera is still absolutely gorgeous and a good match for Bardot’s beauty.

The Horseman on the Roof (1995)

The Horseman on the Roof is a great choice if you’re looking for films set in Provence with a historical flair. Starring Juliette Binoche and Oliver Martinez, it’s based on the novel by Provence writer Jean Giono and directed by Jean-Paul Rappeneau of Cyrano de Bergerac fame.

Set in 1832, in a world ravaged by wars (between France, Austria, and Italy) and an epidemic of cholera, this movie follows two strangers — a beautiful countess searching for her husband and an Italian patriot being hunted by Austrian assassins — discover that their only chance for survival is each other.

Set in the wildly beautiful town of Manosque , in Haute Provence, this movie is everything you might expect from a historical drama. It has sword fights, rooftop escapes, beautiful landscapes, and lots of passionate and secret interludes.

My Father’s Glory (1990)

The first of two Provence movies, My Father’s Glory , is a charming film that seems to meander through the childhood of MacelPagnol, a French novelist and filmmaker. Based on the autobiographical book of the same name, it stars Philippe Caubière, Nathalie Roussel, and Didier Pain.

The movie is set in Marseille after the First World War, where young Marcel (Julien Ciamaca) grows up during the turn of the century in awe of his rationalist dad. When the family takes a summer vacation in the countryside, Marcel meets a boy Lili (Joris Molinas), who teaches him about the secrets of the countryside.

Marcel and Lili become friends soon as they explore the countryside around them. At first sight, this movie seems disjointed and random, like a series of disconnected episodes. But by the end, it has cleverly explored all the important parts that make up childhood in a way that feels very true to life.

Cézanne and I (2016)

If you like your movies about Provence to have some basis in real life, then why not try this beautiful and fraught exploration into the lives of painter Paul Cézanne and novelist Émile Zola?

Cézanne and I is shot in Aix-en-Provence and Mont Saint Victoire . This emotional entry looks at the tempestuous relationship between these two creative geniuses as they grow up in Aix and take very different paths. Zola’s novels receive acclaim early on, while Cézanne’s work is ignored, creating rivalry and strain in their relationship.

Created by writer-director Danièle Thompson, it stars Guillaume Gallienne as Cézanne and Guillaume Canet as Zola.

An Autumn Tale (1998)

Directed by Éric Rohmer, An Autumn Tale is the final movie in a series of four films known as ‘Contes des Quatre Saisons’ or Tales of the Four Seasons. The movie is a beautiful and clever look at the later years of life and what they can mean for many people, and it isn’t afraid to delve into the darker side of getting older.

This isn’t the kind of movie that you watch if you want a lot of action. In fact, it’s the subtlety and wit of this movie that makes it great. Set in the southern Rhône valley , the sense of warmth and simplicity of this movie’s bucolic setting is as heavy and intoxicating as the wine that the characters are preparing to create.

With stars like Alain Libolt, Marie Rivière, Béatrice Romand, and Didier Sandre, as well as Rohmer’s masterful touch, this movie is a true delight to be savored, preferably with a glass of French wine.

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The 8 Best Movies and Shows to Watch Before Going to Paris

N o matter where in the world you’re from originally, Paris probably tops your list of must-visit-at-least-once destinations. The City of Light welcomed more than 25 million people annually before the pandemic halted travel, according to the city’s tourism department . Movies and TV shows that take place in Paris and celebrate its architecture, music, artwork, fashion, and museums, reflect the city’s iconic stature. That means that even in times when international travel is restricted or prohibited, there’s still plenty of Parisian culture to soak in.

Some big and small screen depictions are accurate, others lean on cliche. All are worth a watch if you’re missing Paris. These are the best movies and shows to add to your viewing list, according to travel industry professionals and locals.

1. Cleo from 5 to 7

Photo: Janus Films

Released in 1962, Cleo from 5 to 7 is a classic French film about a woman waiting on cancer test results.

“It’s considered an early masterpiece of French New Wave cinema, alongside Francois Truffaut’s 400 Blows ,” says Courtney Traub, editor of Paris Unlocked . “It follows a young aspiring singer, Cléo, as she goes through the motions of a typical day in Paris, from a hat shop to her apartment, the streets of Montparnasse to a city park. Without wishing to spoil the plot, what starts out as a seemingly lighthearted portrait of a young woman with ‘diva-ish’ tendencies quickly transforms into a poignant meditation on mortality, personal fragility and human connection. Plus, the footage of Paris is haunting and beautiful.”

The movie touches on some cliches — Cleo seems to embody the superficial and self-indulgent Parisian “gamine,” Traub says, and there’s plenty of cafe scenes of people smoking — yet there’s depth to the film that makes it personable.

“Having lived in Paris for a long time, the film also struck me for its lush realism,” Traub says. “It’s a real love letter to the city, showing its diverse textures and complexity rather than portraying it in caricatural terms. I’m not even sure there’s a shot of the Eiffel Tower (though I may be misremembering). It doesn’t use the city as a prop, in other words. It’s really a co-starring character.”

Where to watch : HBO Max

2. Midnight in Paris

Photo: Sony Pictures Classics

For Americans, few films are as synonymous with Paris as the 2011 movie Midnight in Paris . The romantic comedy follows a screenwriter played by Owen Wilson as he travels back in time to meet famous writers from history who decamped to the city in the 1920s, like Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Gertrude Stein.

“I watched Midnight in Paris before traveling there myself,” says Will Hatton, founder of the travel blog The Broke Backpacker . “I found it brilliant, especially when it comes to the history aspect of not only the city but the American culture and how much more elegant it was in the past.”

Midnight in Paris shows a city that’s perfect for walking in all weather — something that’s just as true in real life, says Laurence Norah, the travel blogger and photographer behind Finding the Universe . It also avoids the (often untrue) rude Parisian stereotype. “It was obviously created by someone who loves Paris, and it shows off the city without overtly romanticizing it,” Norah says. “It just makes you want to visit Paris and explore.”

However, it should be noted that not everyone is a fan. Karen Reb Rudel, who owns the walking tour company Sight Seekers Delight , says the city only matches the romance depicted in Midnight in Paris “if you have a lover or a partner who is romantic.” Traub adds that, while the movie is entertaining, it gives the impression of an all white city where everyone lives a glamorous life of wealth and comfort centered around touristy locations.

Jenna Lang, account executive at the travel-focused PR company Decker/Royal , put it best: “Definitely a bit of a cliche, but the best kind.”

Where to watch : Amazon, YouTube, Vudu

3. Dix Pour Cent (or, Call My Agent)

Photo: Netflix

Dix Pour Cent , which runs under the English title Call My Agent , is a comedy about talent agents who are making it work in the French film industry.

“It manages to capture the true Parisian spirit, craziness and just irreverence of the capital,” says Sabrina Scholkowski , a podcast coach, host, and agency owner who has lived in Paris for eight years. Dix Pour Cent “really shows the true nature of Parisians, it doesn’t shy away from showing how they can be sometimes rude, cold, interested in image, very free spirited when it comes to sex and relationships, and paints an accurate picture of Parisians, especially the apartments and places it shows.”

Where to watch : Netflix

4. Paris, je t’aime (Paris, I Love You)

Photo: First Look Pictures

Paris is known for its romance, and that reputation is highlighted in this film, a collection of vignettes made by multiple filmmakers. It stars Natalie Portman, Elijah Wood, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Willem Dafoe, and Steve Buscemi.

“This movie is based on an array of classical literary works that portray Paris through the eyes of lovers and takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions while also showing different sides of Paris, including many that I’ve personally explored,” says Kevin Mercier, the Paris-based founder of the travel blog Kevmrc . “Furthermore, this movie shows us the diversity of Paris by introducing us to relatable characters of all backgrounds.”

There is just one cliche in the movie, Mercier says, but it doesn’t have to do with the French. “The one cliche depicted in the movie was the introduction of an American character who is in stereotypical fashion depicted as overweight and annoying,” Mercier says.

Where you can watch : YouTube

Photo: Momentum Pictures

Amélie (which also goes by the longer title “Le fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain”) is a romantic comedy directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and starring Audrey Tautou as the titular character. At the center of the movie is a woman who’s goal in life is to make people happy — an emotion that you’ll feel as well when you watch it. Amélie was shot in Paris and released in 2001 to immediate acclaim, and is still well loved today.

The movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves Paris, says Roobens Fils, the Paris-based travel blogger behind Been Around The Globe and the author of Traveling While Black . Bonus points if you watch it in one of these iconic Paris Airbnbs .

“It depicts Parisians the way they are, with their qualities and faults,” Fils says. “In the movie, Paris is not too idealized nor too gloomy. You don’t see Parisians with a beret playing accordion in the street, going to the bakery to buy a baguette. It shows Paris how it really is.”

Where you can watch : Amazon

6. Alice in Paris

Photo: Tastemade

In Alice in Paris , the woman at the center of the show is searching the city for the best food. It’s been described by some as what would happen if you turned Amélie into a food-focused travel show.

The quirky series “follows a very loose fictional plot line while taking you around some of the city’s most incredible eateries, from bakeries to soup stations, and of course fine-dining,” says Viviane d’Adesky, a travel expert and the president of Plume Creative Consulting who has written for Matador . “The show has a child-like ease to it, beautiful cinematography and still manages to spotlight the history and noteworthy accomplishments of many Parisian chefs. It’s the antithesis to Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown but equally as entertaining and wanderlust inducing.”

Though the show is fiction, it features real restaurants. The producers even made a map of locations for fans to run down the checklist of Alice’s stops.

Where to watch : Amazon, Hulu, YouTube

Photo: United Artists

The 1981 film Diva , as well as the 1985 movie Subway , are classics that accurately depict the City of Lights, says Nicole LeBlanc of the travel agency monVOYAGE .

“Both of these films fall into the ‘cinéma du look’ category, reflecting a certain rebellious and new wave revival vibe,” LeBlanc says. “These two atmospheric films are linked together in my mind because they are prime examples of the same era of French filmmaking: both have plots with characters being hunted down by unsavory types, and both feature the metro quite prominently. It’s awfully fun to recall these films or imagine yourself in their metro scenes when you’re swooshing around the Parisian underground yourself.”

The movies avoid the cliche glamour of Paris that some movies about the city rely on, instead opting to feature locations tourists often miss. In other words, places that are “not picture postcards and yet they are still quintessentially Parisian,” LeBlanc says. Though there is one thing to note in Diva : “It’s not okay to ride your moped on the metro escalator, nor on the train itself.”

Where to watch : Diva can be found on YouTube, and Subway is on Vudu

8. Emily in Paris

If you’ve kept up with any Paris-related TV talk over the past year, then you’ve heard of the Netflix show Emily in Paris . If not, well, you’ve missed out on a whole lot of people describing their favorite show to hate watch. Emily in Paris is about a Chicago woman in marketing who goes to France to give her uninformed two cents on how a French marketing agency should operate (which is difficult considering she speaks no French).

Scholkowski took issue with how so many people speak English in the show and how French people are depicted as picking up on every stranger who passes. And then there’s the problem with Emily’s apartment: “It’s exaggerated, unrealistic, and never in a million years would anyone with her job be able to afford that palace of an apartment they paint her to live in,” Scholkowski says.

Still, there’s a reason why enough people watched the show for Netflix to greenlight a second season. Peter Kantzos, owner of France Travel Blog , is one of the show’s defenders.

“I recently started the show Emily In Paris on Netflix and I got to say I like it and the whole depiction of Paris and Parisians, although [it’s] a bit over the top in some cases for comedic purposes I suppose,” Kantzos says. He specifically points to all of the people who smoke for one, as well as the depiction of Parisians as rude and overly aggressive about hitting on strangers.

“These are the largest cliches that the show depicts that I know that many French people don’t agree with and they do not like the show for that reason,” Kantzos says, “but I still find them funny exactly because they are so much over the top. I might find them funny because I am not French but still. If you take the show and its depiction of Parisians too seriously and at face value then yes, I suppose that it could give off a wrong impression of the city and its residents but I believe most people will just laugh it off.”

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Best French Movies on Netflix

If you are a cinephile like me, chances are that you are always thrilled to discuss or explore the best French movies on the streaming service Netflix. If you are still wondering what foreign movies to hop on that guarantees the frills and thrills of great cinematic work, you should seriously consider French movies. France arguably has the most successful film industry in Europe, both critically and commercially, and there has been an increase in the number of great French movies been released in recent years.

Given the illustrious cultural history, the cuisines, the participation in world politics, the impact of wars, and the fashion mecca that it is known as, France and French movies have won hearts all across the globe. Consequently, the nation has become one of the largest purveyors of international movies.

This is not just about filmmakers; the French film and cinema industry has offered some of the finest actresses and actors that have graced our screens. Brigitte Bardot, Léa Seydoux, Marion Cotillard, Vincent Cassel, Alain Delon, Isabelle Huppert, and Audrey Tatou are some of the internationally acclaimed actors and actresses from France or are fluent in French.

There are Many French Movies to Watch on Netflix, But Here Are My Picks:

We are Family (2016) | C’est quoi Cette Famille?!

This is one of the funniest French comedies on Netflix.  C’est quoi Cette Famille  is about a kid called Bastien and his six other half-siblings. It happened that Bastien’s parents have married but separated only to be remarried on several occasions. This ultimately meant he had several half-brothers and half-sisters whom he lived with.

After ‘enduring’ the brevity of living arrangements together with parents changing constantly, Bastien’s siblings decide not to move places any longer. Rather, they want their parents to stay with them for long. Comprising of rib-cracking moments,  C’est quoi Cette Famille  is an authentic description of the typical urbane kids’ culture.

I Am Not an Easy Man (2018) | Je ne suis pas un homme facile

This is another French comedy with the ‘Me Too’ theme that ingeniously subverts 21st-century misogynistic clichés. Shameless bigot Damien hits his head and wakes up in an alternate universe where women now have all of the power customarily possessed by men. In this unfamiliar matriarchal setting, he must live through a smorgasbord of problems like workplace and street sexual harassment, regular family and social pressure to have children, and fashions that require him to shave his whole body and don uncomfortable clothes.

I am Not an Easy Man  does a great job of dissecting how the societal ills that women face related to classic gender roles. In spite of the seriousness of the themes, this movie is a light-hearted film with a lot of happy moments and a little crude hilarity that will doubtless make you smile and, at the same time, leave you with much stuff to ponder on.

Nothing to Hide (2018) [Le Jeu]

Nothing to Hide  is the aggregation of fears, shocks, and horrors. It starts with three couples- Vincent and Marie (both doctors), Marco and Charlotte, Lea and Thomas, and Ben a lonely dude. During dinner, the seven decide to make their phone conversations, pictures, and messages public. This was something that started as a game, but it didn’t end as exactly expected.

Imagine the scene where men and women receiving sexts, voicemails from mistresses, kinky pictures, etc.; this game ended up being something no one saw coming. Without a doubt, the seven all had ghosts in their cupboards.

The Climb (2017) [L’Ascension]

The Climb  is a refreshing tale with its own uplifting and warm moments. It features Sam, an unemployed guy who is in love with Nadia but to prove his unmistakable affection for her, he promises to ascend Mt. Everest despite his zilch mountaineering experience. He goes off to Nepal with a Nutella jar and a book and is stunned by the audacity of his experience, much before reaching the mountains. Sam makes many friends en route.

The African Doctor (2016)

Seyolo Zantoko just became a doctor, and now he starts a new challenge. He moves with his family to a small French village in the rural side, where he tries to become one of the most revered doctors.  The African Doctor  is mostly about the tale of the struggles of a Congolese descent in France to integrate into society. The movie delivers a poignant narration with a tinge of comedy. Simultaneously, it also tells a timeless tale of immigrants’ challenges along with family problems.  The African Doctor  can be considered a wonderful satire of culture and race.

Divines (2016)

Divines  were nominated for a Golden Globe, and it tells the story of a teen from a broken home in Paris that crosses path with a young dancer who rocked her world. Even though the plot appears uncomplicated, it is not so simple. Every scene, character, setting, relationship, and element strikes with magnificent strength. From a daughter-mother talk to a classroom argument, almost every scene is poignant.  Divines  is a movie about survival in a crazy universe where the characters feel so real. Actresses Déborah Lukumuena and Oulaya Amamra put in incredible shifts in this movie.

I Lost My Body (2019)

In 2019,  I Lost My Body  became the first animated movie to clinch the Critic’s Week Grand Prize at Cannes. At the Academy Awards, it was also nominated for the Best Animated Feature losing to  Toy Story 4.  This rare adult animated movie deploys strange storytelling as it narrates how a severed hand that escapes from a Parisian lab to reunite with the body. It is the story, often told in flashbacks, of Noufel and his hand.  I Lost My Body  is critically acclaimed and regarded as having one of the most authentic and creative storylines.

Earth and Blood (2020)

Earth and Blood  is a thoroughly armed action thriller that was originally titled  ‘La Terre et le Sang’.  Julien Leclercq   directed the movie, which is extremely based on paramilitary and artillery display. In this flick, Said (played by Sami Bouajila) involuntarily offers a job to Yanis (played by Samy Seghir), who is a troubled guy on parole for a misdemeanor. Yanis conceals cocaine in Said’s sawmill, which his half-brother had stolen from a dangerous gang of drug dealers.

Unknowingly, Said fights to protect his daughter Sarah (played by Sofia Lessafre) as they come under attack by the gang. What happens is an exhilarating and nervous chase for safety against Adama (Eriq Ebouaney), the drug lord.

Blockbuster (2018)

This is a romantic comedy and the first Netflix-produced film that is French. Directed by Julie Hygreck, the story is about Jeremy (Syrus Shahidi), a young man who films activities from his daily life as a miniseries to stay linked with his bed-ridden dad. Lola (Charlotte Gabris), his girlfriend, works at a comic bookstore and is a superhero buff. She is also the only girl who consents to go on a date with Jeremy. But as soon as she discovers some of her boyfriend’s lost footage, she gets incredibly angry and calls it to quit.  Blockbuster  revolves around how Jeremy attempts to win Lola’s heart back.

Lost Bullet (2020) | Balle Perdue

Written and directed by Guillaume Pierret,  Lost Bullet  is about Lino (Alban Lenoir), an automobile mechanic with a criminal past who incurs police attention as Officer Charas (Ramzy Bedia), his police friend, and mentor is killed by a group of cops. To prove his innocence, Lino must find the lost bullet. If you are a fan of realistic action flicks, this movie will give you a treat of impact scenes like cars colliding, toppling, etc. It is super adrenaline-pumping.

Final Thoughts

You might have a little trouble finding some of the best movies on Netflix, but these are brilliant picks you should find easily. They range from romance to action with strong characterization, great directing, and outstanding plots that will keep you on the edge of your seat for their entire duration. And I suggest that you watch with English subtitles to understand the language and culture better. Even if you’re merely interested in improving your language skills, watching some of these French movies will let you in on how French filmmakers are shaping the industry one shot at a time

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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34 Movies That Will Make You Want to Get Off the Couch and See the World

From "The Holiday" to "Romancing the Stone" to "Eat Pray Love," these travel movies will inspire some serious wanderlust.

There's nothing like an epic on-screen adventure to get you acquainted with some place new and dreaming up an enviable vacation itinerary. For me (and basically all my childhood friends), this first happened following a viewing of Disney's "The Lizzie McGuire Movie" back in 2003, when Hilary Duff's character traveled to Rome to live out every teen's parent-free European fantasy. Though I've graduated to more mature travel movies over the last 18 years, one thing hasn't changed: films with gorgeous backdrops give me an unruly case of wanderlust.

From classics like "Around the World in 80 Days" and "Roman Holiday" to modern masterpieces such as "Wild" and "Crazy Rich Asians," travel films tend to ignite a longing for freedom and excitement. Maybe it's the sight of beaches on your screen triggering a phenomenon known as Blue Mind , or maybe watching a couple of pals take to the open road for a life changing road trip just makes you want to feel unconfined. Whatever it is, sometimes a travel film is all you need to provoke that feeling. That's why we've rounded up, in no particular order, 34 of the best travel movies that inspire wanderlust. Maybe they'll be cause for a change of scenery — or maybe they'll incite the adventure of a lifetime.

'Thelma & Louise' (1991)

Widely regarded as one of the best road trip movies of all time, this buddy film follows best friends Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) as they drive through the American Southwest after Louise kills a man in Arkansas.

'The Holiday' (2006)

A Hollywood movie trailer producer (Cameron Diaz) and a London reporter (Kate Winslet) decide to switch homes for a few weeks after finding out their respective boyfriends have been cheating on them. The results offer enough glamor shots of Los Angeles and cozy footage of England's countryside to make you want to pack up and head to either city immediately.

'Crazy Rich Asians' (2018)

Though this movie revolves around the conflict between New Yorker Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) and her boyfriend's wealthy family, "Crazy Rich Asians" could pass as a tourism film for Singapore . If the Southeast Asian country wasn't on your bucket list before, this film's dazzling shots of Singapore, specifically the acclaimed Marina Bay Sands Hotel , may convince you.

'Wild' (2014)

Based on a true story, "Wild" sees Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) hike more than a thousand miles from California to Washington on the Pacific Crest Trail following her divorce and the death of her mother. On her journey, Cheryl treks through the Mojave Desert , the Sierra Nevada, and Mount Hood National Forest while reflecting on her life.

'Eat Pray Love' (2010)

After her divorce, Elizabeth (Julia Roberts) sets off to explore the world with hopes of finding herself in the process. Elizabeth's inspiring and uplifting journey takes her — and viewers — to Italy , India , and Indonesia where she discovers the pleasure of nourishment, prayer, and romance.

'La La Land' (2016)

Admittedly, this musical doesn't feature much traveling (save for a brief road trip to Mia's hometown in Nevada), but the dreamy, oversaturated shots of Los Angeles in nearly every scene are enough to make anyone want to book a flight to the City of Angels.

'Before Sunrise' (1995)

Two strangers meet aboard a train from Budapest. Jesse (Ethan Hawke) is hoping to catch a flight home to the United States while Céline (Julie Delpy) is en route to Paris . Instead of sticking to their plans, the two disembark in Vienna and spend the entire night exploring the city and falling in love. A viewing of this movie will leave you longing for an epic adventure in the picturesque Austrian capital .

'National Lampoon’s Vacation' (1983)

National Lampoon 's classic comedy series is now six films strong, but it was 1983's "Vacation" that started it all. Unlike the franchise's most famous film, "Christmas Vacation," the original movie sees the Griswolds actually hit the road for a trip to Walley World, an amusement park several states away. After you watch Chevy Chase's hilarious hijinks unfold in this film, let sequels "European Vacation" and "Vegas Vacation" inspire further travels.

'The Darjeeling Limited' (2007)

After the death of their father, three estranged brothers (Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman) decide to hop aboard a train in India called The Darjeeling Limited to reconnect and experience spiritual self-discovery. Viewers catch glimpses of the Indian countryside, Hindu temples, and eventually the Himalayas — but not without a few jokes along the way.

'Up' (2009)

Arguably the most heart-wrenching animated film of all time, "Up" earns a spot on our list thanks to adorably grumpy widower Carl Fredricksen's determination to fulfill his own wanderlust. With the help of thousands of balloons and a young sidekick named Russell, Carl and his house soar across the world on an incredible journey that culminates at Paradise Falls (based on Angel Falls in Venezuela).

'Raiders of the Lost Ark' (1981)

"Raiders" kicks off the iconic Indiana Jones series with a quest to find the fabled Ark of the Covenant. On his journey, Indy (Harrison Ford) makes stops in Nepal , Egypt , and the Aegean Sea , and, of course, famously runs from a giant rolling boulder in a temple in Peru . Follow up this film with its sequels, "Temple of Doom" (1984), "Last Crusade" (1989), and "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (2008), to see Indy travel to Jordan , the Amazon jungle, and beyond.

'Mamma Mia!' (2008)

Few movies offer the kind of gorgeously colorful beach imagery "Mamma Mia!" and its 2018 sequel, "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again" provide. If you haven't seen the films, you likely know them as "the movies with all the ABBA songs." But if you have seen them, you know they're actually about three men who travel to the impossibly beautiful, albeit fictional, Greek island of Kalokairi, each believing they're the father of a young bride-to-be.

'Nomadland' (2020)

After losing her job in the town of Empire, Nevada, Fern (Frances McDormand) decides to sell her belongings, buy a van, and drive across the country working odd jobs. Fern travels through deserts, small towns, and nomad communes where she works, makes new friends, and learns about life. If you've ever fantasized about dropping everything and taking to the open road, "Nomadland" will probably either convince or deter you.

'Romancing the Stone' (1984)

When New York City-based romance novelist Joan Wilder's sister is kidnapped in Cartagena , Joan (Kathleen Turner) ends up on a rescue-mission-turned-treasure-hunt with adventure-seeking Jack T. Colton (Michael Douglas). Don't be surprised if a viewing of this movie makes you want to trade in your annual beach vacation for a wild ride through the Colombian jungle .

'Paris, Je T’aime' (2006)

Paris, Je T'aime is different from the other films on this list in that it's not one film — it's 18 short films that all feature Paris as a central theme. Because the project is made up of 18 different stories in 18 different arrondissements around the city, viewers get a true, unfiltered sense of Paris, and may even find themselves inspired to visit lesser-known locales in the City of Light.

'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' (1994)

If you've ever longed to take a laughter-fueled road trip with your best friends, this film is worth a watch. In the flick, pals Tick (Hugo Weaving), Adam (Guy Pearce), and Bernadette (Terence Stamp) head out on a cross-country road trip through the Australian outback to perform their successful drag act in a new town. The trio takes up residence in an oversized tour bus called Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in this fun, ahead-of-its-time dramedy.

'RV' (2006)

While plenty of road trip movies have been made over the years, "RV" might be the only one that takes place in, well, an RV . Though the main characters in this movie face more bad luck than fun, family bonding, the film does feature generous desert , mountain , and wilderness scenery, as well as an all-star cast (Robin Williams, Kristin Chenoweth, Cheryl Hines, and Josh Hutcherson are just a few that appear).

'Point Break' (2015)

Yes, we're talking about the "Point Break" remake rather than the original film from 1991, but hear us out: the imagery in this movie inspires some serious wanderlust. The story takes viewers to several of the wildest places on Earth (Mexico's Cave of Swallows, Venezuela's Angel Falls, etc.) and though the plot is slightly different from the original (think eco-terrorism rather than bank robberies), it is quiet possibly the most visually stimulating travel movie ever made.

'Girls Trip' (2017)

When was the last time you took a trip with just your core group of girlfriends? A quick watch of this comedy will have you planning your next gal pal getaway faster than you can say "PTO." In the film, a group of friends (Queen Latifah, Tiffany Haddish, Regina Hall, and Jada Pinkett Smith) head to New Orleans , but you'll be ready to travel anywhere with your best buds after watching "Girls Trip" — even if it's just to the next town over.

'The Way' (2010)

After his son is killed walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to Galicia, Spain, Tom Avery (Martin Sheen) sets out on the trail himself to retrieve his son's body. Along the way, Tom meets several other travelers who are walking the trail in hopes of changing their own lives for one reason or another. This inspiring film may just persuade you to make the famed pilgrimage yourself, or to book a similarly reflective trip.

'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' (2005)

If you were a teen or pre-teen in 2005, you have likely seen this movie and its 2008 sequel, and can attest that both inspire major wanderlust. The first film follows best friends Carmen, Lena, Bridget, and Tibby (who share a magical pair of jeans that fits them all perfectly) as they spend a summer in different parts of the world. Lena (Alexis Bledel) travels to Santorini, Greece , which makes for some seriously dreamy backdrops. In the sequel, the whole gang heads to Greece, but not before Bridget (Blake Lively) spends some time in Turkey .

'Up in the Air' (2009)

This George Clooney-led comedy-drama makes business travel and airports look glamorous — hospitable, even. Boasting just as many cityscape shots as it does plane scenes, "Up in the Air" will have you longing to be in the skies, jet setting off to some place new. Anna Kendrick and Vera Farmiga also star in this critically-acclaimed film about a man who lives out of a suitcase.

'Around the World in 80 Days' (1956)

If this classic adventure film doesn't inspire daydreams of traveling somewhere new, we're not sure what will. In 1872, Englishman Phileas Fogg makes a bet with several members of his gentleman's club that he can travel around the globe in just 80 days. On his journey, he and sidekick Jean Passepartout bring viewers along as they travel by gas balloon to France , Spain , Italy , India, Hong Kong , the United States , and more.

'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York' (1992)

The Home Alone movies usually fall under the comedy or holiday categories, but if you think about it, the second installment in the series is totally a travel movie. The film does a fantastic job of showing off the glamorous side of New York City , the place young Kevin McCallister accidentally ends up while the rest of his family vacations in Florida. From shots of the Rockefeller Christmas tree to the Manhattan skyline , this film is sure to inspire a trip to the Big Apple.

'Under the Tuscan Sun' (2003)

You won't find shots of northern Italy as serene as the ones in this feel-good film about independence, love, and friendship. After losing everything in her divorce, American writer Frances Mayes (Diane Lane) suddenly finds herself beginning a new life in the small Tuscan town of Cortona. And if you're anything like us, Googling "Tuscan villas for sale" will become a regular part of your life after watching this film.

'Angels & Demons' (2009)

Though "Angels & Demons" is classified as a thriller, it'll definitely make you want to head to Rome and dig up some history, both figuratively and literally. Based on the Dan Brown novel of the same name, the story follows Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) as he discovers secrets of the Vatican and faces off against the supposed Illuminati. If you're a fan, check out other Dan Brown adventure travel films, "The Da Vinci Code" (2006) and "Inferno" (2016).

'Easy Rider' (1969)

Our list features travel by plane, train , RV, and even hot air balloon , but "Easy Rider" is the only movie that follows a journey via motorcycle. In the film, drug smugglers Wyatt (Peter Fonda) and Billy (Dennis Hopper) ride from Los Angeles to New Orleans in hopes of reveling at Mardi Gras to celebrate their latest score. On their journey, they stop in several small towns, make a few friends, and unsuccessfully try to evade trouble.

'Out of Africa' (1985)

If Africa doesn't currently have a spot on your bucket list, this film might make you rethink that. Meryl Streep and Robert Redford star in this true story about Karen Blixen, a Danish woman who moves to Nairobi with her new husband, and builds a life there despite their many marital issues. "Out of Africa" features sweeping panoramic shots of Nairobi in nearly every scene, leaving it no wonder the drama won seven Academy Awards, including one for Best Cinematography.

'Johnson Family Vacation' (2004)

This family comedy starring Cedric the Entertainer, Vanessa Williams, and Solange Knowles follows the mildly dysfunctional Johnsons as they road trip to their family reunion in Missouri. On the drive, the family hilariously encounters just about every road trip cliché, from picking up a problematic hitchhiker to running out of gas, before making it to the reunion and performing a musical number to nab the coveted Family of the Year trophy.

'Midnight in Paris' (2011)

Set in present-day Paris , this Oscar-winning film is typically a favorite among art and literature lovers. At midnight each night, screenwriter Gil (Owen Wilson) is transported back in time through different eras of Paris, where he befriends Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso, and even strikes up a romance with a 1920s woman named Adriana. The film offers plenty of inspiration for a culturally rich trip to France.

'The Parent Trap' (1998)

"The Parent Trap" is another film that may not immediately stand out as a travel flick, but once you take into account the film's many settings ( London , San Francisco, Napa Valley , and the northeastern U.S.), it's easy to see that this family classic has been a travel film all along. Plus, the main characters spend lots of time on planes, boats, and camping trips throughout the movie.

'The Talented Mr. Ripley' (1999)

Carefully spliced between disturbing revelations and suspenseful plot twists are luxurious shots of Italian beaches in this Matt Damon-led film. When Tom Ripley (Damon) is paid to travel to Italy and bring Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) back to the States by Dickie's father, Tom ends up befriending — and later becoming obsessed with — Dickie. Despite the plot quickly darkening, viewers are treated to bright, colorful scenes in Rome and glamorous seaside villages .

'Roman Holiday' (1953)

Romance? Check. Stunning visuals of Rome ? Check. Audrey Hepburn? Check. This classic travel comedy lands at the top of many movie buffs' all-time favorite lists, and for good reason. Bored with her mundane life as a European princess while on a trip to Rome, Ann (Hepburn) ditches her duties and hits the town with journalist Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck). The two take viewers on a tour of the Eternal City and fall in love in the process.

'Pee-wee’s Big Adventure' (1985)

Before you roll your eyes, take a moment to acknowledge that this film essentially sends happy-go-lucky Pee-wee Herman (Paul Reubens) on the great American road trip in search of his stolen bicycle. In this comedy for adults and children alike, Pee-wee stops at the Alamo, the Cabazon Dinosaur park in California , and Hollywood . Traveling by car, truck, and train, Pee-wee befriends a biker gang, competes in a rodeo, and of course, famously dances to "Tequila" before his journey is through.

Hillary Maglin is a digital editor who splits most of her time between New York City and Pittsburgh. You can find her on Instagram @hillarymaglin , where her DMs are always open to discuss travel gear, wine bars, and Taylor Swift's latest record.

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A group of archaeologists get embroiled in an adventure where they must travel back in time to 14th Century France, to save their professor before the French battle the English at Castlegard... Read all A group of archaeologists get embroiled in an adventure where they must travel back in time to 14th Century France, to save their professor before the French battle the English at Castlegard. If they fail, they won't be able to return. A group of archaeologists get embroiled in an adventure where they must travel back in time to 14th Century France, to save their professor before the French battle the English at Castlegard. If they fail, they won't be able to return.

• Richard Donner
• Michael Crichton
• Jeff Maguire
• George Nolfi
• Paul Walker
• Gerard Butler
• Billy Connolly
• 502 User reviews
• 85 Critic reviews
• 29 Metascore

• Chris Johnston

• Andre Marek

• Professor Johnston

• Kate Ericson

• Robert Doniger

• Lady Claire

• Frank Gordon

• Steven Kramer

• Lord Oliver

• Lord Arnaut

• Sir William De Kere …

• François Dontelle

• Arnaut's Deputy

• Oliver's Lieutenant

• Jimmy Gomez

• Bill Baretto
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• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Did you know

• Trivia Michael Crichton, author of the same-titled book on which this movie was based, disliked this movie so much that he refused to licence any more movies based on his novels. Nobody would gain the movie rights to a Michael Crichton book until Steven Spielberg, long-time friend of Crichton, bought the rights to "Pirate Latitudes" after Crichton's death.
• Goofs Decker yells "Fire!" to the archers at the river. But "fire" was an expression that only developed after the invention and widespread use of gunpowder and firearms. Before then, archers were commanded to "shoot" or to "loose" their arrows.

Marek : We're speaking the same language, but you don't understand a word I'm saying, do you?

Lady Claire : No.

• Connections Featured in Troldspejlet: Episode #30.7 (2004)
• Soundtracks Just A Little Bad Written & Performed by Vikkie Rae Jordan Courtesy of Marc Ferrari /MasterSource

User reviews 502

• Dec 13, 2004
• How long is Timeline? Powered by Alexa
• What is the fate of the people who travelled into the past?
• November 26, 2003 (United States)
• United States
• Trở Về Quá Khứ
• Mascouche, Québec, Canada
• Paramount Pictures
• Mutual Film Company
• Donners' Company
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $80,000,000 (estimated)
• $19,481,943
• Nov 30, 2003
• $43,935,763

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 56 minutes
• Dolby Digital

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Franceadmirer.com

Time Travel Movies France

Time travel movies have been popular for years and they continue to be at the forefront of cinema. France is no exception, with its own selection of iconic time-travel films throughout the years. Much like any other genre, these movies have brought both positive and negative implications to the industry and its viewers. Thus, in this op-ed, we will dissect the ramifications of popularizing time travel films in France, weighing the advantages and disadvantages.

French cinematography, much like its literature and art, has been admired by many the world over. Movies have the power to captivate audiences, drawing them into the story, and time travel films have been very successful in doing so. Through the exploration of settings, themes and complexities, movies that use the concept of time travel allow viewers to observe and reflect on the implications of it. An example of the thoughtful and imaginative potential of time travel films can be seen in the critically acclaimed La Jetée (1962). By giving a unique and distinct look into the possibilities of time travel, this film taught viewers how to appreciate the genre and its complexity.

At the same time, however, the precedence of time travel movies can also have consequences as overuse of the plot device can lead to genre fatigue. As shown in multiple scientific studies, when genres become overused by viewers, they tend to no longer appreciate said genre as much; this could be observed from the reception of Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). The movie, which had a time travel plot device, ultimately lost its appeal to audiences as they were already accustomed to seeing a certain format in their films. Additionally, time travel movies, although creative in concept, are often hindered by their predictable, formulaic narrative structures, which can eventually make them tedious for long-time viewers.

In conclusion, films that implement time travel as a plot device open a world of possibilities for viewers. French cinema has a valuable selection of time travel movies which aid in its recognition globally. Such movies flex the creative muscle of its filmmakers and provide insight into complex concepts. However, as with any genre, an over-saturation of certain plot devices can lead to an eventual decrease in appreciation. Therefore, it is the job of both filmmakers and viewers to ensure that a proper balance between genre exploration and genre fatigue is maintained, in order to keep the industry thriving.

Karen Shane

Karen T. Shane is an accomplished writer and traveler with a special passion for France. She has lived in France for many years and has explored the country extensively. Karen is passionate about sharing the cultural richness of France with her readers and helping them to gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people.

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French movies about time travel

In the top there are new films of 2020, a plot description and trailers for films that have already been released.

Stuck in the corridors of time, Godefroy de Montmirail and his faithful servant Jacquouille are projected to a time of profound political and social upheavals: the French Revolution... specifically, The Terror, time of great dangers, during which the descendants of Godefroy and Jacquouille had their castle and all their property confiscated by arrogant aristocrats, fleeing and lifes hanging by a thread.

Éric and Patrice have been friends since high school. Over the years, they have both taken very different paths: Éric has become a hedonist, has a string of girlfriends and is always on the look out for a new one; Patrice has become a monogamous father with a very ordered life. After a drunken evening, the two childhood friends find themselves cast back into 1986, when they were 17 years old. This return to the past is a dream opportunity to try to change the path their lives will take. What will they do with this second chance?

A French tradesman travels in time and liberates an oppressed tribe in another world.

A knight and his valet are plagued by a witch, and to repair the damage they make use of the services of a wizard. However, something goes wrong and they are transported from the 12th century to the year 2000. There the knight meets some of his family and slowly learns what this new century is like. However, he still needs to get back to the 12th century to deal with the witch, so he starts looking for a wizard.

A runaway couple go on an unforgettable journey from Boston to Key West, recapturing their passion for life and their love for each other on a road trip that provides revelation and surprise right up to the very end.

She’s the most beautiful, most short-sighted, most sentimental, most perplexing, most obstinate, most untrustworthy and most troubling of heroines. The lady in the car has never seen the sea. On the run from the police, she keeps telling herself that she’s not crazy… Only...

Rokas and Inga, a couple of young Lithuanians, volunteer to drive a cargo van of humanitarian aid to Ukraine. They cross the vast snowy lands of the Donbass region, drifting into the lives of those affected by the war.

Emile is fifteen. He lives in Montargis, between a sweet-crazy father and a mother who has always dyed his hair blond, because, it seems, he is more beautiful like that. When the girl who pleases him more than anything invites him to Venice for the holidays, he is overjoyed. Only problem, his parents decide to accompany him - This is the story of a teenager born into an unclassifiable family, the story of a first love, miraculous and fragile. This is the story of an initiatory and incredible journey where life often takes unawares, but where Venice, it will be at the rendezvous.

A teenager is stuck in a time loop that is not quite the same each time. She must uncover the truth but her actions have consequences for herself and others.

When Shaun decides to take the day off and have some fun, he gets a little more action than he bargained for. A mix up with the Farmer, a caravan and a very steep hill lead them all to the Big City and it's up to Shaun and the flock to return everyone safely to the green grass of home.

A man tries that his wife fall in love with him again, after to wake up in an alternate reality where she never knew him.

Muzafar and Feruz are two easy going shepherds from Taboulistan, a tiny country in Asia that is unknown to the rest of the world. To alert the world to his country’s existence, the son of Taboulistan’s president decides to instigate a program of publicity terrorism. To that end, he recruits our two naive shepherds, their mission: to destroy the Eiffel Tower! But the France that Muzafar and Feruz discovers is far from what they had expected...

The hunt, capture and trial of Guy Georges, one of France's most notorious serial killer.

Loulou is a wolf. Tom is a rabbit. As curious as it may seem, Loulou and Tom have been inseparable since they were little. Now in their teens, they live the easy life in the Land of the Rabbits. But Loulou, who thought he was an orphan, learns that his bohemian mother is alive. The two friends set out to find her in the principality of Wolfenberg, the Land of the Wolves. They arrive in the middle of the Meat-eaters' Festival, a yearly get together for the world's great carnivores. Will Loulou and Tom's friendship survive in the land where herbivores always end up as the main course? What incredible secret lies behind Loulou's birth?

Decorated soldier Captain Colter Stevens wakes up in the body of an unknown man, discovering he's involved in a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train. He learns he's part of a top-secret experimental program that enables him to experience the final 8 minutes of another person's life. Colter re-lives the train incident over and over again, gathering more clues each time. But can he discover who is responsible for the attack before the next one happens?

Every year, Bruno makes a tour of all the wine stands, without setting foot outside the Show’s premises and without ever finishing his wine trail. This year, his father suggests they finish it together, but a real wine trail, across the French countryside. Accompanied by Mike, a young, quirky taxi driver, they set off in the direction of France’s major wine regions. Together, they are going to discover not only the wine trails, but also the road that leads back to Love.

Inspector Richard Kemp never got around to putting the handcuffs around the Eardrum Slasher, a dangerous serial killer whose rampage began 20 years before. When Hélène, a psychologist, witnesses the Slasher’s latest crime and offers to testify, Kemp falls in love with her at first sight. In a mysterious turn of event, Kemp is suddenly transported back in time to the site of the Eardrum Slasher’s first murder, he realizes that this could provide a second chance to catch the killer...

Ruben, Durex and Nora are three students in their last year of college. Ruben has already failed his exams once due to his lack of self-confidence. He's been as useless with Nora, to whom he dares not confess his feelings. And his childhood friend Durex, the most embarrassing guy in the world, is no help at all. When Ruben discovers that Nora is a dealer and that she's going to Amsterdam to bring back a new kind of drug, Ruben bucks up the courage to accompany her. This trip to Amsterdam is an ideal situation in which to at last seduce Nora. But his bad luck: Durex comes along for the ride. While the trio discover Europe's craziest capital, their lives really get complicated when they realize that the drug they've just picked up belongs to one of Amsterdam's most dangerous gangsters. Very quickly, Ruben, Durex and Nora will understand that to get their old lives back, they must stop being nerds in order to become true heroes.

Camille was only sixteen and still in high school when she fell in love with Eric, another student. They later married and a child and were happy for a while. But now twenty-five years have passed and Eric leaves her for a younger woman. Bitter and desperate Camille drinks so much liquor at a New Year Eve's party that she falls into an ethylic coma and she finds herself... propelled into her own past! Camille is sixteen again when she wakes up this morning, her parents are not dead anymore and she must go to school, where she will meet her schoolmates and, of course, Eric. Is she going to fall for him again and... be miserable twenty-five years later? Or will she avoid him with the result never having her beloved daughter? Who ever said that time traveling was fun?

Set in France during the mid-1970s, Vanessa, a former dancer, and her husband Roland, an American writer, travel the country together. They seem to be growing apart, but when they linger in one quiet, seaside town they begin to draw close to some of its more vibrant inhabitants, such as a local bar/café-keeper and a hotel owner.

Toby, a cynical advertising director finds himself trapped in the outrageous delusions of an old Spanish shoe-maker who believes himself to be Don Quixote. In the course of their comic and increasingly surreal adventures, Toby is forced to confront the tragic repercussions of a film he made in his idealistic youth.

Eastern Cape, South Africa. A lonely factory worker, Xolani, takes time off his job to assist during an annual Xhosa circumcision initiation into manhood. In a remote mountain camp that is off limits to women, young men, painted in white ochre, recuperate as they learn the masculine codes of their culture. In this environment of machismo and aggression, Xolani cares for a defiant initiate from Johannesburg, Kwanda, who quickly learns Xolani's best kept secret, that he is in love with another man.

A combination of first-person stories and exclusive aerial images, HUMAN is a unique documentary. This sensitive experience is an introspection into whom we are today as a community but also and most importantly as an individual. Through wars, inequalities, discriminations, HUMAN confronts us with the realities and the diversity of our human conditions. Beyond this darker side, testimonies show the empathy and the solidarities which we are capable of. All these contradictions are ours and HUMAN leads us to reflect about the future we wish to give to people and the planet today. Filmed in 60 countries during two years, HUMAN by Yann Arthus-Bertrand draws a portrait of nowaday’s Humanity.

Four separate episodes deal with stereotypical ideas about Jews: their alleged influence on politics, the stereotype of Jewish business-mindedness, the Mossad, the Jewish world conspiracy and the memory of the Holocaust.

The adventures of the young Rémi, an orphan, collected by the gentle Madam Barberin. At the age of 10 years, he is snatched from his adoptive mother and entrusted to the signor Vitalis, a mysterious itinerant musician. Has its sides, he will learn the harsh life of acrobat and sing to win his bread. Accompanied by the faithful dog capi and of the small monkey Joli-Coeur, his long trip through France, made for meetings, friendships and mutual assistance, leads him to the secret of its origins.

Africa. In the wild expanses, where bush-bucks, impalas, zebras, gnus and other creatures graze by the thousands, they are on holiday. German and Austrian hunting tourists drive through the bush, lie in wait, stalk their prey. They shoot, sob with excitement and pose before the animals they have bagged. A vacation movie about killing, a movie about human nature.

Antoine is a joyful but disenchanted photographer. His only true friend, Mateo, is 7 years old and the son of his neighbor, who is often absent. One day, he hears a piano sonata coming from the building across the courtyard. Mesmerized by the music, he becomes obsessed by Elena, the beautiful but mysterious pianist, and starts to photograph her at every opportunity. An intense relationship develops between fragile and idealistic Elena and Antoine, who is transformed by this encounter.

The Manzoni family, a notorious mafia clan, is relocated to Normandy, France under the witness protection program, where fitting in soon becomes challenging as their old habits die hard.

Rémi Gaillard is the real character of the World network, troll, provocateur, one of the biggest-selling comic actor in Europe. One and a half milliards of viewing and millions of fans. A day came, and he decided to steady down: got married, settled down on work on a parking place, promised a pregnant wife, that also «goes away to the decree» and gives up the pranks. But how to deafen talent and disorderly conduct of fantasy?. Fans can not assume his care. Gaillard returns.

Vincent, a former air rifle champion lives a quiet life with his wife and his daughter. Despite his happy family life he ends up with economic problems. One day at the shooting range he meets the mysterious Renaud who promises him a solution to his problems by offering him an unusual job. Suddenly Vincent finds himself in a very dangerous spiral which turns out to be even harder to get out of than finding a solution to his economic problems.

The film tells the story of Malony and his education as he grows from a six-year-old into an 18-year-old. A minors’ judge and a caseworker work tirelessly to try to save the young offender.

After a bank job goes badly wrong, three desperate criminals take a young woman and a father and child hostage - it's the beginning of a frantic and violent road trip that not all of them will survive.

Fatima, an Algerian-born woman who now lives in France with her two teenage daughters, with whom she is barely able to communicate.

Plant loving Hilda, has created a museum where she preserves endangered and rare plants from all over the world. Meanwhile Attilem, a new genetically modified cereal, is launched on the market. Growing with little water and fertilizer while generating high crop field Attilem looks like an ideal solution to eradicate starvation and provide an alternative to diminishing oil reserves. But nothing is at it seems...

Between 1978 and 1979, the inhabitants of the Oise are in fear of a maniac who kills several hitchhikers and escape the police. He was then dubbed "the killer of the Oise" is actually a shy young policeman who will investigate his own murder, only to lose control of the situation.

A captured performance by Parisian nude cabaret Crazy Horse, in a surreal show directed by French footwear designer Christian Louboutin. Louboutin calls Crazy Horse “an iconic monument of Paris, a monument to dance, a modern, dream- like idea of the celebration of women for women”.

A musical drawing room farce set in Paris in October, 1925. Gilberte, in middle-age, flirts with men but loves her husband Georges, wishing he were more demonstrative. He's negotiating a deal with an American, Eric Thomson, who turns out to be Gilberte's first husband from an annulled and secret stateside marriage. Along with her sister Arlette, Gilberte begs Eric not to tell Georges about the marriage. Meanwhile, a young artist, Charly, pursues Gilberte while Arlette tries to match him with the young Huguette, who loves him. Will Eric play along or try to re-win Gilberte's affection? Can Gilberte play one off against another? And who will manage to kiss whom on the lips?

Family man François Nouel is the number one fan of the Tour de France – an obsession that costs him his wife and his job. At a loose end, François meets a former sports manager, Rémi who encourages him to take the plunge and do the Tour himself. With nothing to lose, François sets off, always one day ahead of the race, attracting fellow amateurs, media coverage and cheering crowds. As obstacle after obstacle is thrown his way, and his family comes back on the scene, François discovers what is really most important in his life.

In 1976 in Nice, Agnes, the daughter of the owner of the Palais de la Méditerranée, falls in love with an older lawyer.

An enigmatic actress (Emmanuelle Seigner) may have a hidden agenda when she auditions for a part in a misogynistic writer's (Mathieu Amalric) play.

A romantic comedy about Jean-Marc who is a convinced bachelor and also very busy. So busy that he almost missed his own daughters wedding ceremony...

Victor Bukowski is an out-of-work actor with problems. He's got a lousy agent, he has a habit of falling out with directors and he's still in love with his ex-girlfriend. However, Victor is about to embark on an unexpected emotional journey which will make him confront his future and his past mistakes.

Through unlocked genetic memories that allow him to relive the adventures of his ancestor in 15th century Spain, Callum Lynch discovers he's a descendant of the secret 'Assassins' society. After gaining incredible knowledge and skills, he is now poised to take on the oppressive Knights Templar in the present day.

Two unlikely friends — a supply teacher and a lonely young boy suspended between two estranged parents — embark on a weekend motorcycle voyage full of surprises and unforeseen consequences in this surprisingly tough, unsentimental drama.

A haunting erotic fairytale about Lucy, a young University student drawn into a mysterious hidden world of beauty and desire.

Zef’s stormy relationship with his brother Roni is further aggravated when Roni marries his daughter just as he is attending to his wife’s funeral. The two brothers have never got on with each other. One is faithful to his religion, the other lives only for the present. Between London, Paris, Saint-Tropez and New York, a series of confrontations and betrayals threatens to drive the family further apart, but out of this confusion will come a great love story, perhaps even two...

Thirty-year-old Ben is about to marry Juliette. His quiet, ordered life will fall to pieces when he meets up again with the person he secretly wants to see the most: Vanessa, the high school bombshell who never so much as looked in his direction. She's back in Paris, and the only person she now knows is him…

When the little haberdasher Arras discovers she's won 18 million in the lottery and can now afford anything she wants, she has only one fear: losing the small joys of life made simple it cherishes above all. But fate is obstinate, and this is giving too long this good fortune will trigger it, despite herself, a hurricane that will change everything. Everything except her.

Eleanor, thirties, has just lost her father. He bequeathed his house in Brittany in the Cotes d'Armor. She is a photographer, has had some success but business no longer work as before. It is imperative to sell the house. She goes there with Samuel, her former companion which she left some time ago, because she does not feel to go alone and she has not returned since the death of her father. But she is playing with fire - because she knows that their relationship did not exactly appeased, even if it was for some adventures and Samuel lives with Laura. Claire Andrieux, the real estate agent, was busy organizing visits during the two days Samuel and Eleanor will stay in the house. It's a funny weekend that these three are about to spend.A surprising weekend full of surprises, emotions, tensions, memories and shouting matches in melancholy and absurd moments that leave the couple necessarily changed.

Agathe runs an art gallery. Her husband François is a publisher. Together they have one son, and in every way seem to be the picture of normality — but emotions are stewing under the surface. All it takes is the arrival of a complete stranger for things to start unravelling. Patrick is brash, uncouth and totally unselfconscious...