If you’ve ever been to Paris you’ll know the feeling of walking through a movie set. It’s why we love doing photography here and why it lends so well to filming. Walk around Paris for a day and you’ll recognize scenes from your favorite movies and tv shows, like Emily in Paris, Midnight in Paris, Amélie, and so many more. These locations have a special charm that we can conjure up on the screen even when we’re not in Paris.
Cinema and photography go hand in hand. We LOVE visual storytelling and cinema is an extension of our biggest passion, since it creates beautiful worlds that we can immerse ourselves in (much like photos!). Watching movies in French is not only an enjoyable way to pass the time but also a romantic way to slow down with your loved one and spend an evening at home.
Today, we’re so excited to present our top 10 French movie recommendations specially curated for a couples movie night date.
They are not ALL romantic films, but they are still some of the best french movies that have been released since the 90s, most of which have become classic french films that also serve as useful french learning resources. What better way to dive right into french culture for a couple hours! Most of these movies are available on Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, or other streaming platforms. If you’re learning French, you can always try watching without subtitles or changing the subtitles to French, otherwise we definitely recommend watching with English subtitles so you can understand everything.
So, grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and let’s dive into the world of cinema with some of the most popular french films of all time!
1.Amélie (2001)
Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, “Amélie” is a whimsical romantic comedy set in the city of light. Follow the adventures of Amélie (played by French actress Audrey Tautou), a waitress with social anxiety who decides to bring happiness to the people around her while struggling with her own romantic desires. With its charming characters and picturesque Parisian setting, “Amélie” is sure to enchant you. This movie kind of feels like a French companion film to “Midnight in Paris” with Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams. It’s SO cute and clever and definitely one of our favorites (hence it being first on the list)
2. The Intouchables (2011)
Based on a true story, “The Intouchables” is a comedic drama that follows the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic man and his caregiver from the suburbs of Paris. Directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, this feel-good film provides insight into French society and offers plenty of humor along the way.
3. La Famille Bélier (2014)
“La Famille Bélier” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that centers around a teenage girl named Paula, who serves as the indispensable interpreter for her deaf parents and brother. Directed by Éric Lartigau, this film explores themes of family, communication, and self-discovery while providing plenty of laughs and touching moments.
4. Les Choristes (2004)
Set in post-World War II France, “Les Choristes” tells the story of a music teacher who transforms the lives of troubled boys at a boarding school in a small town through the power of music. Directed by Christophe Barratier, this uplifting film in a school life setting features beautiful music and explores themes of redemption, friendship, and the importance of education. Speaking of education, this is one of the best french films for french learners. This film was named for best music and sound at the César awards, and we think it’s one of the most heart-warming French films out there.
5. La Haine (1995)
Directed by Mathieu Kassovitz, “La Haine” is a gritty and thought-provoking drama that explores issues of race, class, and identity in the impoverished suburbs of Paris. Following the lives of a young man and his two friends from immigrant backgrounds, the film offers a powerful commentary on social inequality and urban unrest in contemporary France. Kassovitz one Best Director Award for this movie at the Cannes Film Festival and La Haine is now regarded as a cult classic. While it’s more intense than most of the other films on this list, it’s still a great movie.
6. Les Misérables (2019)
Directed by Ladj Ly, “Les Misérables” is a gripping drama that follows a police officer assigned to an anti-crime squad in the troubled suburbs of Paris. Inspired by the 2005 Paris riots, this film offers a raw and unflinching look at the complexities of life in the French banlieues and the tensions between law enforcement and the local community. You WILL be singing all the songs from this movie, the soundtrack is just unmatched! Get ready for some musical numbers in your own home!
7. Cyrano de Bergerac (1990)
“Cyrano de Bergerac” follows the story of the titular character played by Gerard Depardieu, a brilliant but self-conscious poet blessed with a sharp tongue and a heart overflowing with unspoken affection. This reimagining of Edmond Rostand’s love triangle play introduces us to Cyrano, a man whose unparalleled eloquence is matched only by the enormity of his unrequited love for the beautiful Roxane. Poignant soliloquies, witty banter, and heart-wrenching confessions invite viewers to explore themes of identity, courage, and the enduring power of true love in one of the best french comedy movies of all time.
8. Le Petit Nicolas (2009)
Based on the beloved children’s book series by René Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé, “Le Petit Nicolas” is a charming family comedy that follows the misadventures of a young boy growing up in 1950s France. Directed by Laurent Tirard, this nostalgic film offers a delightful glimpse into French culture and childhood.
9. Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Directed by Anne Fontaine, “Coco Before Chanel” is a biographical drama that explores the early life of legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel. Set in early 20th-century France, the film follows Chanel’s journey from humble beginnings to fashion icon, offering insight into her creative vision and independent spirit.
10. The Artist (2011)
Directed by Michel Hazanavicius and starring Jean DuJardin, “The Artist” is a love story and a unique and charming homage to the silent film era. Set in 1920s Hollywood, the film follows the romantic relationship between a silent film star and a young dancer as they navigate the transition to talking pictures. With its captivating visuals and heartfelt performances, “The Artist” is a romantic drama that would make a perfect date night movie for cinephiles and language learners alike. This movie won the Oscar for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, and in our opinion, it’s a real classic of French cinema.
If you’re not a fan of subtitles or you feel like you’re not quite ready to jump into a movie entirely in French just yet, you can check out some films that are in English and set in the beautiful scenery of Paris. Check out our Parisian English movie and tv show ideas below:
1.Midnight in Paris (2011)
“Midnight in Paris” transports viewers on a whimsical journey through time and imagination in the heart of the City of Light. Directed by Woody Allen, this enchanting film follows the adventures of Gil, a nostalgic screenwriter, as he finds himself mysteriously transported back to the vibrant Paris of the 1920s every night at midnight. Amidst encounters with literary legends like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein, Gil discovers the true essence of romance, creativity, and self-discovery. You will fall in love with Paris AND Owen Wilson’s endearing character. This movie seriously never gets old, it’s just so clever and really capitalizes on all of the charm we love in Paris.
2. Moulin Rouge (2001)
“Moulin Rouge” is a dazzling movie about love, passion, and spectacle set in the bohemian underworld of 19th-century Paris. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, this extravagant musical extravaganza follows the star-crossed romance between Christian, a young poet, and Satine, the captivating courtesan of the Moulin Rouge. Amidst the opulent sets, electrifying dance numbers, and memorable musical performances, their forbidden love story unfolds. If you want to step back in time to the dreamscape of bohemian Paris, this is definitely the movie for you! It’s SUCH a classic and if you’re like us, you’ll be singing along to all the songs!
3. Hugo (2011)
“Hugo” takes viewers on a magical journey through the eyes of a young boy in the streets of 1930s Paris. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this visually stunning film follows the adventures of a young orphan named Hugo Cabret as he unlocks the secrets of a mysterious automaton left behind by his late father. Along the way, Hugo discovers the power of friendship, love, and the magic of cinema. “Hugo” is a must-watch for audiences of all ages, but is especially perfect if you want to let your inner child out.
4. An American in Paris (1951)
“An American in Paris” transports audiences to the enchanting streets of post-World War II Paris. Directed by Vincente Minnelli, this classic musical follows Jerry Mulligan, an ex-GI turned struggling artist, who finds himself entangled in a love triangle with a wealthy heiress and a French shopgirl. Through breathtaking dance sequences, sumptuous visuals, and Gershwin’s timeless melodies, the film captures the essence of romance and artistic passion. “An American in Paris” remains a cinematic treasure, celebrating the allure and magic of the City of Light. If old movies are your thing, you’ll love this one!
5. Ratatouille (2007)
This charming Pixar flick serves up a delightful blend of comedy, heart, and, of course, mouth-watering cuisine! Follow the adventures of Remy, a rat with dreams bigger than his whiskers, as he teams up with Linguini, a bumbling kitchen assistant, to cook up a storm in a top Parisian restaurant. With its lovable characters, stunning animation, and a pinch of culinary magic, “Ratatouille” is a feast for the senses that’ll leave you craving more! Seriously, this movie NEVER gets old.
6. Emily in Paris (2020-current)
Follow Emily, an ambitious young marketing executive from Chicago, as she moves to Paris and navigates the intricacies of work, friendship, language barriers, and romance in the City of Love. With its vibrant visuals, witty dialogue, and delightful escapades, this Netflix series captures the essence of Parisian charm. From haute couture to quaint cobblestone streets, immerse yourself in the whirlwind world of fashion, culture, and unexpected encounters. Like the rest of us, you’ll be laughing along the entire time and probably end up binge watching this show. If you’ve ever moved to another country or experienced culture shock, you’ll find this show so funny and relatable. We especially love all of the parodies of French culture because we experience it firsthand on a daily basis. Just wait, you’ll get hooked!
Whether you’re drawn to love stories, lighthearted comedies, or thought-provoking social commentaries, these top 10 French movies offer something for everyone.
So, dim the lights, press play, and prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of French cinema.
