Are you looking for the best classic French movies of all time?
What goes well with movies? Definitely some good wine and cheese. France, a country with a long history and rich culture, excels in all three. French films in particular are known to be master trailblazers that continue to influence and shape world cinema.
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That’s why when anyone mentions classic films, there have to be at least several French films in the list. If you are looking to binge-watch the best classic French films, check out our handy list. The films range from post-war masterpieces to quirky modern classics.
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17 Best Classic French Movies Of All Time
Classic French Comedy Films
1. Boudu sauvé des eaux (1932)
Jean Renoir’s classic comedy depicts the French bourgeoisie of the early 1930s and modern France. The film harshly attacks bourgeois attitudes and lifestyles, trying to redeem and save someone who doesn’t want to be redeemed.
Society exploits the tramp, who symbolizes unwelcome change. He’s a jerk and an anarchist. He also embodies one’s inner desires as outside-the-box, unconventional, and atypical.
Renoir’s best comedy is a masterpiece to treasure and remember.
2. Le Chomeur de Clochemerle (1957)
Actor Fernandel, who has been a cinematic icon in France for more than three decades, stars in the film “Le Chomeur de Clochemerle” (The Unemployed of Clochemerle). In the movie, he plays a philosopher who is looking for a way to make money while being a “licensed” unemployed person.
When compared to “La Regle du Jeu,” which was shot before World War II, this film, was shot not long after the war’s conclusion. It has a noticeably distinct cinematography style.
3. Les Bidasses en Folie (1971)
In the film “Les Bidasses en Folie” (also known as “Soldiers Fooling Around”), the popular band known as “Les Charlots” (The Clowns) features a cast of amusing comedians who get into all kinds of problems when they are required to report for military service.
Take note that “Charlot” is also the French name for the figure “The Little Tramp” created by Charlie Chaplin.
4. La cage aux folles (1978)
Academy Awards nominated “La cage aux folles” was an instant classic. The Italian legend Ugo Tognazzi and the French legend Michel Serrault give outstanding and astonishingly realistic performances in this great comedy.
The plot about a gay couple is captivating and adds controversy to a taboo subject. This film made Tognazzi and Serrault even more legendary.
The movie’s storyline is adventurous and innovative, but their performances elevate it to the “stairs of Cinema’s comedy greats” and make it a must-see for comedy fans.
Classic French Drama Movies
5. Le Grande Illusion (1937)
“Le Grande Illusion” explores the themes of war, class, and humanity. Directed by Jean Renoir, the film tells the story of a group of French soldiers during World War I who are captured by the Germans and sent to a prisoner of war camp.
Through their experiences, the soldiers come to question the social and political structures that led to the war and the divisions between nations and classes. “Le Grande Illusion” is a thought-provoking and timeless masterpiece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.
6. La Règle du Jeu (1939)
La Règle du Jeu is considered a masterpiece of cinema. Directed by Jean Renoir, the film is a satirical look at French society in the years leading up to World War II.
The story follows a group of wealthy aristocrats who gather at a country estate for a weekend of hunting, love affairs, and social games. But as the weekend unfolds, tensions rise and secrets are revealed, leading to a tragic and unforgettable conclusion.
La Règle du Jeu is a must-see for anyone interested in classic cinema and the complexities of human relationships.
7. Moderato Cantabile (1960)
When taken from the directions of a sonatina, the words “Moderato Cantabile” (English Title: “Seven Days and Seven Nights”) signify that the piece of music should be played “moderately and singingly” (modéré et chantant).
The movie makes up for the lack of fast-paced action with a plot that is straightforward but effective.
This film is an adaptation of Marguerite Duras’s novel of the same name. It tells the story of a depressed mother and wife who both fall in love with a dock worker who works for her husband’s firm after witnessing the same murder.
8. Masculin Féminin (1966)
Masculin Féminin is a French film from 1966 that explores the complexities of gender and relationships.
Directed by Jean-Luc Godard, the film follows the lives of a group of young adults as they navigate love, politics, and societal expectations.
Through its unique blend of humor, drama, and social commentary, Masculin Féminin offers a thought-provoking look at the cultural landscape of 1960s France.
This is a film that beautifully captures the shift away from the conservative values of the 1950s. Its portrayal of gender roles and relationships is a true reflection of the changing times.
Jean-Luc Godard, a renowned New Wave director, leads a group of young city dwellers as they explore and embrace the vibrant youth culture of their time.
9. La Révolution française (1989)
The French Revolution is brilliantly chronicled in this two-part film that was made to commemorate the event’s bicentennial.
For the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution, France, Germany, Italy, and Canada collaborated on a two-part historical film that premiered in 1989. While the full film clocks in at 360 minutes, the televised cut adds a few minutes.
It claims to be an objective history of the French Revolution from the convening of the Estates-General through Maximilien de Robespierre’s assassination.
Classic French Romantic Movies
10. Jules and Jim (1962)
“Jules and Jim” is a French film released in 1962. It tells the story of two friends, Jules and Jim, who fall in love with the same woman, Catherine.
“Jules and Jim” is a classic example of French New Wave cinema and is known for its innovative storytelling and stunning cinematography.
Set against the backdrop of World War I, this film, created by one of the pioneers of the New Wave movement, explores the complexities of love and friendship in the face of unpredictable circumstances. Don’t miss this timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations.
11. Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain (2002)
The film, also simply named “Amélie,” inspired countless romantic comedies with its lavish image of modern France and gentle humor.
Amélie, a bashful waitress who anonymously improves others’ lives, is a symbol of modern French ostracism. The film features fast-paced images and inventive French filmmaking. Its fantasy humorous moments, like its main character, feature love elements that enhance the comedy.
Rightly, it became a musical. Due to its fast-paced, whimsical vision of life, “Amélie” is suited for musical adaptations. “Amélie” may have started this new innovative French film genre that blends cinematic elements in 2001.
12. Ils se Marièrent et Eurent Ils se Marièrent et Eurent Beaucoup d’Enfants” (2004)
“Ils se Marièrent et Eurent Beaucoup d’Enfants” is a captivating film that follows the lives of three close friends in their 40s who are struggling with dissatisfaction. The movie features the talented Charlotte Gainsbourg in a leading role and even includes a cameo appearance by the legendary Johnny Depp.
As the story unfolds, viewers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and growth as the characters navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and family.
This is a heartwarming tale of finding happiness and fulfillment, even when life doesn’t go as planned.
13. Paris, Je T’aime (2006)
“Paris, Je T’aime” is a beautiful declaration of love for the city of Paris. The phrase, which translates to “Paris, I love you,” captures the essence of the city’s charm, romance, and allure.
This anthology of 18 stories about love and loss manages to avoid clichés and instead offers a heartwarming and unique perspective on the theme.
Indulge in a cinematic treat with this modern classic that boasts an impressive lineup of short films directed by renowned filmmakers such as Alfonso Cuarón, Olivier Assayas, and the Coen brothers.
The film also features a star-studded cast including the talented Natalie Portman, the captivating Juliette Binoche, and the versatile Willem Dafoe.
Get ready to be captivated by a collection of thought-provoking and visually stunning stories. Immerse yourself in the charm and diversity of Paris by watching each film, which takes place in a different arrondissement of the city.
New Wave and Noir
14. The 400 Blows
Antoine Doinel (Jean-Pierre Léaud), a little boy living in Paris, has a tough go of it. Antoine spends his days with his best buddy Rene (Patrick Auffray) trying to plan for a better life while being surrounded by unpleasant adults, notably his inattentive parents (Claire Maurier, Albert Remy).
When one of their plans backfires, Antoine gets into problems with the law, which leads to further conflicts with uncaring authorities.
The groundbreaking feature film debut of filmmaker François Truffaut, is about a defiant young man in the 1950s From its lengthy tracking shots to its existential subject matter, Paris is a landmark film of the New Wave.
15. Breathless (1960)
Breathless, which kicked off the French New Wave, changed the filmmaking process and inspired a whole new generation of artists. Both the film’s title and its director are household names among cineastes who appreciate excellent French films since they revolutionized the industry.
Starring Jean-Paul Belmondo as a drifting criminal named Michel and Jean Seberg as his American girlfriend Patricia, this film was released in 1972. The film marked Belmondo’s breakthrough as an actor and was Godard’s first attempt at a full-length production.
16. Le Samourai (1967)
Jef Costello (Alain Delon) is a professional assassin who follows a strict ritual before carrying out a killing on a nightclub owner.
As calm and collected as Costello always is on the job, he is shaken to find a witness to the murder: the club’s female piano player. The police do a sweep of suspects, and before he can act, they capture him.
After being let go after the key witness refuses to testify, Costello finds himself on the receiving end of intense pursuit from both the police and his former employers in the criminal underworld.
This is basically what happens in Le Samoura, arguably the best film by Jean-Pierre Melville and one of the best crime movies of all time.
17. L’armée des ombres (1969)
“L’armée des ombres” (Army of Shadows) is Jean-Pierre Melville’s twelfth film. Roger Ebert calls it a striking portrayal of French Resistance members who persevere despite despair.
“Army of Shadows” is about cold, hungry, and desperate people navigating Nazi-occupied France. Like shadows, they assume fake identities, lack fixed addresses, and are vulnerable to betrayal by traitors or accidents. They realize their likely demise.”
“Army of Shadows” follows noir conventions, regardless of its premise. Disillusionment dominates the film. It also explores a state of mind rather than a battle.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.