50 Best French Films – César Award Winners
50 titles
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Same Old SongMovie · 1997 · 120m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceIn Paris, Odile, a successful businesswoman, wants a bigger apartment to fit her demanding life. Her sister Camille, recently finished with her history doctorate, works as a tour guide, leading visitors on walks through the city’s past. Simon, a regular on Camille's tours, falls for her. Meanwhile, Camille begins an affair with Marc, drawn to him by their shared love of history.
As Odile and Camille live their lives in Paris, they meet Nicolas, who hopes to reunite his family there. This story follows their intertwined paths, exploring love, ambition, and the search for happiness in the romantic city. It showcases Paris's enduring appeal, its rich history, and how experiences in the city change people’s lives.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 2
ElleMovie · 2016 · 131m · Drama, ThrillerWhen Michèle, the CEO of a gaming software company, is attacked at home by a stranger, she's determined to maintain control of her carefully structured world. She navigates family issues while simultaneously being pursued by her stalker in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
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TimbuktuMovie · 2014 · 96m · Drama, WarNear Timbuktu, Mali, where Islamic militants enforce strict religious law and disrupt everyday life, a cattleman kills a fisherman.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
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WWE SmackDownMovie · 2003 · 124m · Romance, DramaIn a Parisian housing project, a group of teenagers rehearse a scene from Marivaux's play of the same name. Krimo initially resists participating, but after developing feelings for Lydia, he quickly takes on the lead role and becomes the object of affection in the play.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
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The Beat That My Heart SkippedMovie · 2005 · 107m · Drama, CrimeA driven real estate agent unexpectedly finds himself drawn to playing the piano and begins auditioning for opportunities with the assistance of a talented young musician. However, the demands of his high-stakes, ethically questionable job jeopardize his newfound musical ambitions.Stream on - 6
My New PartnerMovie · 1984 · 107m · ComedyA hardened Parisian police officer, deeply involved in corruption, works to maintain control amidst the city's criminal underworld. His world is disrupted when he's assigned a bright, new recruit. The experienced officer tries to shape the rookie's idealism, but as they investigate crimes together in dangerous neighborhoods, their differing approaches create conflict and surprising bonds. The film explores themes of corruption, loyalty, and self-discovery, offering a realistic look at the blurred line between law and crime.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6
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Lost IllusionsMovie · 2021 · 149m · Drama, Romance, HistoryLucien de Rubempré, a young poet from a working-class printing family, journeys to Paris. There, he quickly discovers the corrupt underbelly of the art world while striving to remain faithful to his artistic aspirations.Stream on - 8
The Barbarian InvasionsMovie · 2003 · 99m · Comedy, DramaYears after 'The Decline of the American Empire,' Remy, a middle-aged Montreal college professor, is diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. His ex-wife, Louise, asks their estranged son Sebastian, a successful businessman in London, to return home. Sebastian mobilizes his resources, navigating the Canadian healthcare system to support his father's fight, and reunites Remy with old friends: Pierre, Alain, Dominique, Diane, and Claude, who come to say goodbye.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0
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Other People's MoneyMovie · 1978 · 105mHenri Rainier enjoys a privileged life: a beautiful wife, two daughters, and a successful career at a major bank. His world shatters when he's accused of negligence following a major financial scandal and forced to resign. Realizing he's being framed, Rainier launches his own investigation to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the bank's massive financial loss. He soon discovers he's confronting a formidable and dangerous adversary.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.8 - 10
Mr. KleinMovie · 1976 · 123m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerIn Nazi-occupied Paris, 1942, art dealer Robert Klein strives to survive. He unknowingly encounters a Jewish man with the same name, setting off a dangerous chain of events. Torn between self-preservation and morality amidst wartime suffering, Robert must navigate a complex path of deception and loyalty.Stream on - 11
ThérèseMovie · 1986 · 94mThis film presents the life of young Saint Therese of Lisieux through simple, intimate scenes. Therese and her sisters live as nuns in a Carmelite convent. The film clearly illustrates her deep faith in Jesus and her unique approach to spirituality, known as "the little way." It conveys a feeling of gentle devotion without relying on elaborate visuals like dramatic lighting, music, or spectacular miracles.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 5.9
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Wild ReedsMovie · 1994 · 115m · Drama, RomanceThis coming-of-age drama follows a teenage boy in Algeria as the war nears its end. He struggles with feelings for two classmates while navigating the shifting social landscape of a society undergoing change. The film examines identity, desire, and friendship amidst conflict and uncertainty. His journey of self-discovery highlights both the common struggles of adolescence and the specific pressures of living during political upheaval. As he explores his feelings for a rural boy and a French-Algerian intellectual, the young man learns about acceptance, love, and the importance of human connection.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
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AmourMovie · 2012 · 127m · Drama, RomanceGeorges and Anne, an elderly couple in their eighties and retired music teachers, find their strong relationship challenged when Anne suffers a stroke. Their daughter, a musician living overseas with her own family, is distant. The event deeply tests the couple’s enduring love for each other.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
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A ProphetMovie · 2009 · 155m · Crime, DramaMalik El Djebena receives a six-year prison sentence. Having never learned to read or write, he feels isolated and vulnerable upon entering prison. He quickly becomes drawn to a dominant group of Corsican inmates who control life within the prison walls. As he participates in their activities, Malik grows stronger and earns the trust of the Corsicans.Stream on - 15
CustodyMovie · 2018 · 93m · Drama, ThrillerMiriam and Antoine have recently separated. Miriam wants their 17-year-old daughter Josephine to choose where she lives, but is determined to keep her 11-year-old son Julien away from his father. However, the judge orders joint custody, forcing Julien into the middle of their increasingly bitter conflict, where it appears he will have to pick a side.Stream on - 16
All the Mornings of the WorldMovie · 1991 · 115m · Drama, History, MusicThis is a moving story about a celebrated musician who finds himself deeply affected by the sudden death of his wife. Overcome with grief, he isolates himself, finding comfort only in his music.
Then, a young musician seeks him out for mentorship. This connection reignites the older artist's passion and offers a chance for healing through teaching. The film explores themes of redemption, the enduring love of music, and its ability to help overcome hardship as the two musicians forge a unique bond and journey together.Stream on - 17
SéraphineMovie · 2008 · 125m · History, DramaThis is the story of Séraphine Louis (1864-1942), a French woman who began as a simple servant and unexpectedly developed into a talented self-taught painter. She gained recognition during the interwar years thanks to the influential critic and collector William Uhde, and was associated with other naive artists like Henri Rouseau. However, with the arrival of the Great Depression and World War II, she tragically suffered a mental breakdown and faded into obscurity.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.7
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Three Men and a CradleMovie · 1985 · 106m · ComedyThis charming comedy follows three close friends in Paris – Jacques, Pierre, and Michel – as they deal with love, friendship, and an unexpected baby. Their apartment is always lively, filled with parties and friends. When Jacques is asked to deliver a package while his friend is in Japan, a baby unexpectedly shows up at their door. Suddenly, Pierre and Michel find themselves unexpectedly becoming fathers, while still trying to manage adult life. The story explores friendship, personal growth, and how life can change unexpectedly as the three friends navigate this unforeseen journey.Stream on - 19
The Secret of the GrainMovie · 2007 · 151m · DramaIn southern France, a Franco-Arabic shipyard worker and his partner's daughter work together to realize their dream of opening a restaurant.Stream on - 20
BPM (Beats per Minute)Movie · 2017 · 143m · DramaParis, early 1990s. A group of young activists are driven by a desperate need to find a cure for a deadly, unknown disease. They focus their efforts on pharmaceutical labs believed to hold potential cures, escalating their direct actions in the hope of saving lives now and for future generations.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.7
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Bye Bye MoronsMovie · 2020 · 87m · Comedy, DramaAt 43, hairdresser Suze Trappet receives a serious illness diagnosis and embarks on a frantic search for a child she was compelled to give up at 15. Her chaotic journey involves meeting JB, a 50-year-old experiencing a midlife crisis, and Mr. Blin, an enthusiastic blind archivist. This unusual trio undertakes a humorous and moving adventure across the city to find Suze's long-lost child.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 7.2
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Les MisérablesMovie · 2019 · 104m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerIn Montfermeil, a suburb of Paris where Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables" is set, new Anti-Crime Squad member Stéphane joins experienced colleagues Chris and Gwada. He quickly learns of escalating tensions between local gangs. During an arrest, the trio is overwhelmed, and a drone captures the event, potentially revealing the harsh realities of daily life.Stream on - 23
The Dreamlife of AngelsMovie · 1998 · 113m · DramaIsa and Marie develop a close bond while working in a demanding French clothing factory, facing long hours and low pay in difficult conditions. Seeking refuge from their daily struggles, they decide to share an apartment temporarily, due to health problems affecting Marie's mother and sister.
While navigating hardship, Marie meets Chriss, a wealthy nightclub owner who offers a way out of poverty. Isa sees this relationship as based on superficial desires, but struggles with her friend’s choices. This disagreement tests their friendship and highlights their differing hopes and values.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 24
TessMovie · 1979 · 172m · Drama, RomanceThis drama follows a young peasant girl who believes her family is connected to a wealthy estate nearby. Her father sends her to investigate their shared history, leading her into a world of privilege and class division.
Her hopes are quickly crushed as she experiences manipulation and abuse from those she sought to connect with. Facing betrayal, she must find strength to maintain her dignity and spirit amidst difficult circumstances.
The film explores themes of social inequality and resilience, portraying the girl's challenging journey as a powerful and unforgettable story.Stream on - 25
Smoking / No SmokingMovie · 1993 · 298m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceThis film adapts a series of connected plays, originally featuring eight stories, into three distinct narratives per movie segment. Each section explores the characters' lives through different scenarios based on choices they made or didn't make.
The film stars Sabine Azema as all five female characters and Pierre Arditi as all four male characters. "Smoking" and "No Smoking" present contrasting realities, examining how the characters' lives might have unfolded with different decisions. "No Smoking" specifically focuses on the complex relationship between Miles Coombes and his ambitious wife, Rowena, offering a look at how small choices can dramatically alter life's course.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 26
ProvidenceMovie · 1977 · 110m · Drama, ComedyClive Langham, a 78-year-old author facing declining health and addiction, spends a sleepless night confronting his past. Unable to escape his demons, he begins writing a novel that mixes reality and fantasy.
As Clive explores memories and imagined scenarios, he creates characters based on his family, critiquing their lives and decisions. The story reveals the complexities of family and the burden of regret, viewed through an aging man's eyes.
The film examines creativity, addiction, and aging, exploring the unpredictable nature of relationships and storytelling’s power to both comfort and cause pain. This deeply personal story will resonate with audiences, prompting reflection on their own lives and connections.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 27
La BalanceMovie · 1982 · 103m · ThrillerA determined but unconventional police detective navigates the criminal underworld of Paris, solving cases his superiors doubt. He becomes involved with a young woman and her enigmatic pimp while investigating a dangerous crime syndicate. Seeking information, the detective forms a risky alliance with the couple, using their knowledge of the city's hidden places. As they work together, he becomes increasingly involved in their complicated relationship, forcing him to question his own values. The film explores power, loyalty, and redemption through a gripping story of a man pushing boundaries for what he believes is right.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3
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Quest for FireMovie · 1981 · 100m · Adventure, DramaA Cro-Magnon tribe faces a desperate struggle when their fire unexpectedly goes out. To ensure their survival, three warriors journey through a dangerous prehistoric world filled with rival tribes and dangerous creatures.
As they navigate treacherous landscapes, the warriors encounter Ika, a wise woman who knows how to relight their fire. Guided by her, they learn about cooperation, resilience, and preserving their traditions.
The film explores the importance of fire to early humans and highlights their determination to secure a future for their people. It’s a story of courage and the strength of the human spirit.Stream on - 29
Too Beautiful for YouMovie · 1989 · 91m · Drama, Romance, ComedyA successful car dealer appears to have a perfect life with his beautiful wife. His routine is disrupted by a new temporary secretary – a woman who charms him despite not being conventionally attractive. They begin a secret affair, drawn to each other despite their commitments.
The wife's reaction to the infidelity is complicated. Though she has experienced betrayal before, this affair stirs something different, a deeper connection beyond physical desire. The story explores desire, emotional bonds, and the complexities of relationships, revealing how even seemingly perfect lives can be shaken by unexpected feelings.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 30
The ArtistMovie · 2011 · 100m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceHollywood, 1927. Silent film icon George Valentin worries about his future as talking pictures threaten the industry. He finds himself drawn to Peppy Miller, a promising young dancer hoping for her moment in the spotlight.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4
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Savage NightsMovie · 1992 · 126m · DramaThe film follows Jean, a young man exploring love and his sexuality in a world that is open but still presents obstacles. Jean doesn’t identify with any single label, embracing casual relationships, but his life changes when he meets Laura and Samy. As Jean connects with both of them, each distinct, he realizes he's bisexual. This discovery creates an emotional conflict as he grapples with his feelings. He must decide whether to pursue a relationship with Laura, who has touched his heart, or remain with Samy, who sparked his interest. The film examines self-acceptance, love, and the freedom to explore desires without societal pressure.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 32
La HaineMovie · 1995 · 98m · DramaDuring a chaotic night of rioting in the Parisian suburbs, the lives of three young friends – Vinz, Hubert, and Saïd – become intertwined. They anxiously await news about a friend seriously injured during a clash with police. The film portrays their raw emotions, hopes, and fears as they face the harsh realities of their lives and the complexities of their bonds. Set against this turbulent backdrop, the story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and identity in a truthful and emotionally powerful look at contemporary society.Stream on - 33
The Old GunMovie · 1975 · 103m · Drama, HistoryDuring World War II, in the besieged town of Montauban, surgeon Julien Dandieu prepares to flee. Anticipating a German invasion, he plans to take his wife and daughter to a remote village where he owns a castle. He enlists his friend Francois for safe passage, hoping for a peaceful escape. However, their plans change when Julien discovers the Germans have already reached the isolated village.
The film is a moving story of survival, loyalty, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of wartime chaos. It explores the emotional toll of conflict as characters struggle to protect their families. Balancing suspense with heartfelt moments, the film highlights the strength and courage of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.Stream on - 34
Cyrano de BergeracMovie · 1990 · 137m · Drama, Comedy, HistoryCyrano de Bergerac is a story about a celebrated swordsman and poet whose confidence is hurt by his prominent nose, making it difficult for him to express his feelings for his cousin Roxane. Unable to confess his love directly, Cyrano devises a plan: he writes passionate love letters pretending to be someone else, hoping to win Roxane's affection. The story explores themes of love, courage, and self-worth in 17th century France. It’s a classic tale about a man struggling with his insecurities while pursuing a seemingly unattainable dream.Stream on - 35
Me, Myself and MumMovie · 2013 · 85m · ComedyGuillaume faces a difficult question: how to define manhood when those closest to him have already made up their minds for him. The film follows Guillaume's often humorous and heartbreaking journey from the age of eight, as he explores his identity by presenting as female and later as homosexual. At thirty, he meets a woman who, after his mother, becomes the most important person in his life. More than a story of a man discovering his heterosexuality, it’s the story of an actor who has always deeply loved women, perhaps a little too intensely.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7
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RidiculeMovie · 1996 · 102m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceSet in 18th century Versailles, this period drama follows a poor French nobleman who hopes to improve his estate by building essential drainage systems. He faces difficulties gaining royal approval for the project, navigating the complex social rules and politics of the palace. With help from a clever tutor and his own skills, he learns to succeed in this environment, using both intelligence and diplomacy. As he becomes involved in court life, he builds friendships and faces rivalries, blurring the lines between what is seen and what is real. The film examines ambition, social class, and self-discovery as the nobleman tries to achieve his goals within Versailles' elaborate society.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 37
The PianistMovie · 2002 · 150m · Drama, WarThis is the true story of pianist Władysław Szpilman's life in Warsaw during the Nazi occupation. As the city's Jewish population is confined to a ghetto, Szpilman finds work performing in a café. When his family is deported in 1942, he remains in Warsaw, working as a laborer before ultimately going into hiding amidst the ruins of the war.Stream on - 38
FatimaMovie · 2015 · 79m · Drama, FamilyFatima, originally from Algeria, now lives in France with her two teenage daughters, struggling to connect with them.Stream on - 39
The Night of the 12thMovie · 2022 · 114m · Crime, Mystery, DramaCaptain Vivés, newly promoted to head of the Grenoble Criminal Squad, takes on the murder of Clara. As Vivés and his team delve into Clara's complicated life and relationships, their professional investigation gradually transforms into a disturbing obsession.Stream on - 40
The Last MetroMovie · 1980 · 131m · Drama, Romance, WarGary Hobson discovers he receives tomorrow's newspaper a day early. Suddenly confronted with a glimpse of his future in the pages, Gary must grapple with the implications of knowing what's to come. As the boundaries of time become unclear, he’s forced to decide how to use this unexpected knowledge. The film explores fate, time, and free will as Gary faces critical choices that could change his life. Full of suspenseful surprises, it examines how people react to life's uncertainties.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
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Camille ClaudelMovie · 1988 · 175m · Drama, History, RomanceThe film portrays Camille Claudel, a gifted but troubled young sculptor, as she apprentices under the famous artist Auguste Rodin. Their professional connection deepens into a passionate romance, but their intense relationship begins to jeopardize Camille's sanity and artistic vision. Set in late 19th-century France, the movie examines the difficulties of pursuing artistic greatness, the dangers of obsession, and the fragile line between love and self-destruction. Using compelling visuals and a sensitive depiction of its characters, the film explores the sacrifices made by those striving for excellence while navigating complicated personal lives.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8
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AmélieMovie · 2001 · 122m · Comedy, RomanceIn a small café in Paris, the sweet but shy Amélie discovers she finds joy in secretly helping people. She dedicates herself to matchmaking, offering small acts of kindness, and generally improving the lives around her. However, her world shifts when she meets a charming stranger, forcing her to consider if she’s ready to pursue her own happiness and find love.Stream on - 43
Le BalMovie · 1983 · 112m · Music, Comedy, DramaThe film follows a story over five decades centered on a small French ballroom, which witnesses significant changes in society. Beginning in the 1920s, the ballroom becomes a gathering place for generations of people who share a love of dance.
The ballroom reflects French society, with dancers from all walks of life participating in the dances popular during each period. Throughout the years, the musicians who play for these dances remain a constant presence, adding a timeless quality to the ballroom's history and identity.
The film explores themes of continuity and change, tradition and innovation, as it examines a community united by their passion for dance. By capturing intimate moments between dancers, musicians, and audiences, the story creates a vivid portrayal of life unfolding within the walls of this special place.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0 - 44
The Taste of OthersMovie · 2000 · 112m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceA blunt, highly practical industrialist, Jean-Jacques Castella attends a performance of Racine's "Berenice" to support his niece, who has a small role. He becomes captivated by Clara Devaux, the actress playing the lead. As the play progresses, Castella realizes he previously hired and fired Clara as his English tutor. He impulsively enrolls in language lessons, and despite his own self-perception as a cynical and unsophisticated man, manages to win Clara's affection.Stream on - 45
Venus Beauty InstituteMovie · 1999 · 105m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThis heartwarming film tells the story of Angèle, a skilled beautician whose life changes when her partner abruptly leaves her at a train station. Showing strength despite her heartbreak, Angèle attracts the attention of Antoine, a younger sculptor who is drawn to her spirit.
Antoine, recently separated from his fiancée, decides to pursue Angèle, hoping to win her affection despite the obstacles their age difference presents. Meanwhile, Angèle becomes involved in a romantic situation when she tries to prevent her younger coworker, Marie, from dating an older widower who visits the salon.
The film explores themes of love, second chances, and connection between generations. It's a story about embracing vulnerability and finding joy in unexpected friendships and romance.Stream on - 46
Lady ChatterleyMovie · 2006 · 167m · Drama, RomanceFollowing a severe injury that renders her husband unable to have children, Lady Chatterly struggles with the conflict between her love for him and her own physical needs. With his permission, she explores other ways to find satisfaction.Stream on - 47
Anatomy of a FallMovie · 2023 · 151m · Thriller, Mystery, CrimeWhen a man is killed, his wife becomes the prime suspect. Their blind son holds the key to the truth, forced to grapple with a difficult choice as the only one who saw what happened.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
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A Nos AmoursMovie · 1983 · 102mFifteen-year-old Suzanne escapes her troubled family through a series of impulsive and increasingly sexual relationships. Her open sexuality intensifies the hidden desires of her self-absorbed brother, her insecure mother, and her stern, dominant father.Stream on - 49
Au Revoir les EnfantsMovie · 1987 · 105m · Drama, War"Au revoir les enfants" is a deeply moving story set in Nazi-occupied France, exploring friendship, betrayal, and loss. The film unfolds in a provincial Catholic boarding school where two young boys develop a strong bond amidst the surrounding conflict. Their friendship offers a sense of hope until a secret changes everything, darkening their youthful world.
Inspired by real events, the film is told with sensitivity and detail by director Malle. It portrays courage and cowardice in wartime France, offering a poignant look at a tragic realization. This story is likely to stay with viewers.Stream on - 50
Of Gods and MenMovie · 2010 · 120m · Drama, HistoryIn Algeria, a community of Trappist monks lives peacefully at the Tibhirine monastery, maintaining strong relationships with the local Muslim people. When a violent conflict erupts between the Algerian army and Islamist insurgents, the monks are faced with the difficult decision of whether to leave their home and abandon the villagers they've served. Amidst the escalating violence, the monks grapple with their beliefs and ultimately choose to remain, working to protect their neighbors from both sides.Stream on
