Best movies to learn French

updated 7th February 2025

Watching French films can be a great way to enhance your language skills. These films offer a mix of genres, from comedies to dramas and biopics, making it easier for you to find something enjoyable. While some might think French movies are hard to follow due to complicated plots or deep themes, there are many options that provide both entertainment and language learning benefits.

Incorporating French films into your study routine can make your learning experience more dynamic. Whether you’re joining French conversation classes or studying on your own, these movies help bring the language to life and make studying French more fun.

By watching French movies, you will get real vocabulary from native French speakers. Learning French through textbooks is great but you may not get the real picture and only formal vocabulary. It’s always best to learn French from the people who speak the language.

Exactly like for French series, if you choose a topic that interest you from the beginning (gastronomy, history, travel,..) it will be a lot easier to stick to it. By watching movies that entertain you, you will remember a lot more than just grammar lessons. They are both complementary.

At first, fast-paced dialogue may feel overwhelming. Yet, as you watch with subtitles, you’ll get more familiar with common expressions and regional accents. This exposure helps you tune your ear to spoken French and its nuances.

Finally, many learners feel a sense of achievement when they enjoy a film in a foreign language, even if they don’t grasp every word. Each film you watch brings you one step closer to fluency and offers valuable cultural insights. Enjoy the process since each moment spent watching expands your understanding of the French language and culture.

Begin with a movie you already know. If you’ve read the book or are aware of the plot, it will simplify understanding the French dialogues.

Use French subtitles while watching. This will help you get used to the French accent. It’s an enjoyable way to boost your listening and reading abilities at the same time. Without subtitles, you might miss out on important expressions and vocabulary.

Avoid pausing the movie too often, as it can disrupt your interest. Instead, pause once or twice to jot down key words or phrases that seem significant within the context of the film.

Consider scheduling regular movie nights. Watching a French film once a week or once a month creates a fun routine. For example, you could designate “French Movie Thursdays” to look forward to each week.

By integrating these practices, you can enhance your French listening skills and grasp everyday slang while enjoying entertaining films.

The film L’Arnacoeur features a captivating mix of humor and sentiment. Alex, played by Romain Duris, is a charming heartbreaker whose job is to split up unhappy couples. While set against the beautiful backdrop of Monaco, his next client is a successful couple set to marry soon. The movie brings a delightful twist to romantic comedy.

This classic from 2002 follows Xavier, who takes part in an Erasmus program in Barcelona. Sharing an apartment with students from various European countries leads to hilarious and heartwarming experiences. L’Auberge Espagnole is known for its cultural exploration and has two sequels worth checking out.

A touching musical drama set in 1948 that tells the story of a music teacher at a boarding school for troubled boys. Through music, he transforms their lives, bringing hope to those who feel lost. Les Choristes (The Chorus) received recognition at the Oscars and is sure to leave you inspired.

This biopic chronicles the rise and tragic end of Claude François, one of France’s most beloved singers. It offers a glimpse into his ambitious life, showcasing both his successes and struggles, with a compelling performance by Jéremie Renier.

In this biographical film, you explore the early life of the iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel. It provides insight into her challenging beginnings before she became a symbol of modern femininity. Fans of fashion and Audrey Tatou will appreciate Coco avant Chanel.

A biographical drama that portrays the life of the famous singer Dalida, beginning from her early years in Cairo to her rise in the music world. It paints an intimate picture of her turbulent life and the impact of her artistry.

Based on Anna Gavalda’s novel, the romantic film Ensemble C’est Tout highlights the bonds formed between characters from different walks of life. Their shared experiences foster a sense of community and the idea that together, they can overcome challenges.

This film tells the story of Paula, the only hearing member of her deaf family. As she discovers her talent for singing, she faces the dilemma of pursuing her dreams while being the voice for her family. La Famille Belier became a massive hit and won awards for its heartfelt story.

This classic comedy has charmed audiences for decades. La Grande Vadrouille follows the comedic adventures of two Frenchmen who aid British pilots in escaping from Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Its blend of humor and historical context makes it a must-see.

Following the friendship between a paralyzed aristocrat and his caregiver, Intouchables mixes humor and heart. Their unlikely bond leads to life-changing experiences. It is considered one of the most popular French films worldwide.

A modern look at teenage life and mother-daughter relationships, LOL captures the joys and struggles of adolescence. It offers a sweet perspective on love, friendship, and navigating life as a teen.

This biographical film showcases the life of Edith Piaf, exploring her rise to fame and the struggles she faced. Marion Cotillard’s portrayal of Piaf La Môme is both moving and critically acclaimed, making it a standout in French cinema.

This film takes you on a vacation with a group of friends dealing with personal issues after an accident involving one of their own. Les Petits Mouchoirs shifts between laughs and heartfelt moments, providing a true reflection of friendship and life’s complexities.

This comedy centers around a family dinner that spirals into chaos when a name for a soon-to-arrive baby is discussed. The unfolding hilarity and drama reflect the dynamics and challenges of family relationships in Le Prénom.

While not for the faint heart due to some graphic scenes, this Jacques Audiard movie is very powerful.

Stéphanie (Marion Cotillard) is a killer whale trainer at Marineland Antibes in De Rouille et d’Os. One day, the show turns into a drama forcing her to be amputated and wheelchair bound. Thanks to Ali (Matthias Schoenaerts) she will slowly feel alive again. The evolution of the relationship established between these two very different characters is very interesting in itself. The way Jacques Audiard filmed is, as always, beautiful.

Hope you will enjoy these French movies ! These films are just a glimpse of what French cinema has to offer. You will find a rich variety of genres and stories, from comedies that make you laugh to dramas that touch the heart. Enjoy exploring these captivating tales that reflect life, love, and friendship. Feel free to get in touch if you have any further suggestions or have any questions about my French classes.