Sarah G.
You are looking for the best French films on Netflix in 2023? Do not search anymore ! We have put together for you a list of 15 must-see films that will amaze you. Prepare to be transported into captivating worlds, to laugh out loud and to be moved like never before.
From crazy comedies to gripping thrillers, including touching stories and masterpieces of French cinema, this selection has it all. So, make yourself comfortable and let yourself be guided through the twists and turns of French cinema. Ready ? Action !
Table of contents
1. The World Is Yours – 2018
Immerse yourself in the fast-paced and unpredictable world of the film The world is yours. Released in 2018, this film is a bold blend of drama, crime and humor. The protagonist is a small-time drug dealer looking for a way out of his daily life. His journey will lead him to an unexpected encounter with theIlluminati, a secret organization shrouded in mystery.
Director Romain Gavras succeeds in captivating spectators' attention from start to finish, thanks to a story that is both dark and hilarious. Le Monde est à toi will take you on a journey into the depths of the Parisian underground, offering a unique perspective on the world of crime.
There is no doubt that this film is a must-see for French cinema lovers on Netflix in 2023. So, prepare some popcorn and make yourself comfortable, because once you start watching The World Is Yours, you won't be able to no longer stop you.
2. Funan – 2018
Immerse yourself in the world of French animated cinema with Funan, a remarkable masterpiece that takes us to Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge regime. Directed by Denis Do, this film is much more than just animation. This is a emotional journey which explores the depths of human resilience in the face of adversity.
Based on Denis Do's research and the memories of his Cambodian mother, Funan is a film that will bring tears to your eyes. It is not only the story of a people fighting for survival, but also of hope, love and the power of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
This French animated film available on Netflix in 2023 is a true gem, offering a unique perspective on a time and place often overlooked by the history of cinema. So, prepare to be captivated by the poignant story of Funan.
| Initial release date | 2018 |
| Director | Denis Do |
| Scenario | Denis Do |
| Genre | Animation, drama, historical |
| Duration | 84 minutes |
3. School Life – 2019
In third place we have Student services office, a French comedy-drama released in 2019. Directed by the duo Grand Corps Malade and Mehdi Idir, this film is an authentic dive into the daily life of a college in the Parisian suburbs.
The film features a determined vice-principal who transforms a struggling middle school into a true place of learning and growth. Filmed in a charming and fun atmosphere, Student services office brilliantly illustrates the challenges and triumphs inherent in the world of education, while offering a unique perspective on the social realities of French suburbs.
Renowned for its humorous and touching depiction of the encounter between an inspiring teacher and young people at risk, Student services office is a film that has captured the hearts of spectators. With a rating of 90% on the Tomatometer, it is undeniable that this film marked the year of its release.
Available on Netflix in 2023, Student services office is an opportunity not to be missed for all fans of French cinema. Whether you're a fan of comedy-dramas or simply curious to discover the world of education from a new and refreshing perspective, this film is for you.
4. The Wolf's Call – 2019
Immerse yourself in the depths of tension and suspense with The song of the wolf, a thrilling action thriller released in 2019. This film, centered on a sonar officer of a submarine, takes you on a frenzied quest to prevent nuclear war.
Let's imagine this situation for a moment: you are in a submarine, in the depths of the ocean, your mission: to prevent a catastrophe of unimaginable magnitude. The sound of your breathing is the only sound that breaks the abysmal silence. Every second counts and the tension is at its peak. This is exactly the kind of excruciating suspense that The song of the wolf.
The film's hero, a sonar officer, uses his highly developed sense of hearing to thwart the impending threat. His fight against time and his dedication to the cause make this film a true cinematic tour de force.
If you're looking for a movie that will keep you hooked from start to finish, The song of the wolf is an option not to be missed on Netflix in 2023. Breathtaking suspense, breathtaking acting performances and a captivating plot make this film one of the best French action thrillers available on the platform.
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5. Anelka: Misunderstood – 2020
Let's immerse ourselves in the world of football with the sports documentary « Anelka: Misunderstood« . This film offers a fascinating and unvarnished insight into the life of the controversial French footballer, Nicolas Anelka. One of the sometimes misunderstood heroes of French sport, Anelka left his mark on the history of football with his undeniable talent and his sometimes confusing personality.
The director Franck Nataf et Eric Hannezo take us on a captivating journey through the ups and downs of a professional sports career. The film candidly explores the controversies that have punctuated Anelka's career, providing a unique perspective on the often unforgiving world of professional football.
In addition to his prowess on the field, “Anelka: Misunderstood” also explores the human side of this exceptional footballer. The film allows us to better understand the man behind the player, giving us privileged access to his personal and professional life.
Available on Netflix in 2023, “Anelka: Misunderstood” is a must-see for all football fans and movie buffs looking for captivating and inspiring sports documentaries. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the fascinating story of one of the most famous French footballers of our time.
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6. Atlantics – 2019
Taking place at Dakar, Senegal, Atlantics is a film that transcends genres, blending drama and romance with a touch of the supernatural. Imagined by director Mati Diop, this film is an ode to love and revenge, while poignantly addressing contemporary issues such as migration.
Atlantics takes place in the suburbs of Dakar, where an imposing skyscraper is being built. The film follows the story of two lovers, one of whom works on this colossal project. Tension rises as the building grows, symbolizing the socio-economic challenges of modern Senegal.
The film is presented in a mix of Wolof and French, adding a layer of authenticity to this already emotionally charged story. With a Tomatometer by 96%, Atlantics is a film that will leave a deep impression on you, whether you are drawn to romantic dramas or simply curious to discover a new perspective on contemporary Africa.
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7. Good Cop, Bad Cop – 2006
Imagine a film where action and laughter are two inseparable components. This is what you get Good Cop, Bad Cop, a Quebec action comedy with caustic humor, released in 2006. This cinematographic work tells the story of two police officers with diametrically opposed personalities, forced to work together on a case. One is English-speaking, the other French-speaking, a linguistic duality which adds even more spice to their interactions.
If you are looking for an entertaining film that will make you laugh out loud while keeping you in suspense, Good Cop, Bad Cop is a must-see option on Netflix in 2023. It is a film that will undoubtedly mark your movie night with its unique humor and captivating plot. A classic to see again and again.
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8. The Most Assassinated Woman in the World – 2018
Immerse yourself in mystery and intrigue with « The most murdered woman in the world« , a gripping thriller based on the life of actress Paula Maxa in 1930s Paris. This film, directed by Franck Ribière, brings to life a bygone era through the eyes of Paula, a woman who saw death up close , thousands of times – but only on stage.
Installed at Grand Guignol Theater set in Paris, this story tells how Paula, who was killed on stage thousands of times during her work with this famous macabre theater company, found herself pursued by a real assassin off stage. Between the performances on stage and reality, the film weaves a web of suspense that will keep you in suspense until the end.
If you are looking to understand the life of a courageous woman in a dark and fascinating universe, “The Most Murdered Woman in the World” is the French film on Netflix that you absolutely must see in 2023.
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9. I Am Not An Easy Man – 2018
Get ready for a journey into an alternate world where gender roles are reversed. In « I'm not an easy man« , a French film released in 2018, machismo confronts the reality of a matriarchal world, leading to hilarious moments and deep reflections.
In this film, the protagonist is a chauvinistic man, known for his typically masculine behavior, who suddenly finds himself in a world where women dominate. Gender roles are completely reversed, and he must now navigate a world where men are harassed in the streets and women hold positions of power.
Director Éléonore Pourriat uses this argument to highlight the gender inequalities that still exist in our society. With humor and satire, “I am not an easy man” presents a unique perspective on the issue of gender roles. The film will make you laugh, but above all, it will make you think.
Much more than a simple romantic comedy, this film is an astute social critique and a surprising story that will keep you in suspense from start to finish. If you're looking for French films on Netflix that are out of the ordinary, “I am not an easy man” is not to be missed.
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10. The Hungry (Ravenous) – 2017
In 2017, moviegoers were treated to a Canadian independent thriller that revisited the zombie film genre. Titled « The Hungry« (or “Ravenous” in English), this film takes place in the rural and rustic setting of Quebec. It moves away from the usual clichés to offer a more relaxed and original vision of horror.
Directed by Robin Aubert, a recognized Canadian director, “Les Affamés” knew how to find a delicate balance between humor, philosophy and gore. It's a work that will make you shiver with fear, while entertaining you with its unique take on the zombie genre. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was even nominated for Best Film at the Canadian Screen Awards.
If you are a fan of horror films or simply looking for a new cinematic experience, “Les Affamés” is a perfect choice. It is not only available on Netflix France, but also on the British version of the streaming service. Prepare for a night of thrills and entertainment with this laid-back and unique zombie thriller.
11. I Lost My Body – 2019
Imagine a world where even a hand separated from its body does not abandon the quest to regain its identity. This is the universe that offers us I lost my body, a French animated film released in 2019, directed by Jérémy Clapin. This film, both original and creative, explores the interconnection of memory and identity through a hand that desperately searches for its body. It is a moving exploration of the common life they shared.
The hand, the main character, guides us through a poignant journey, remembering its life with the body. Every encounter, every memory, every moment of love with a woman she meets, everything comes back to her. It's a unique and innovative way of telling a story, which is both grotesque and touching.
I lost my body is a must-see film for anyone looking for a unique cinematic experience. It stands out not only for its storytelling approach, but also for its exceptional animation and gripping plot. It's a cinematic work that leaves a lasting impression, long after the theater lights come back on.
Available on France Netflix, this film is an excellent option for those looking to discover the best of French cinema through a story that is out of the ordinary.
12. Athena
Prepare to be transported into an epic war with Athena, a daring French film set in a housing project. Directed by Romain Gavras, this film captures the fierce struggle for survival and justice in a harsh environment. The film follows the journey of Idir, the youngest of four brothers, in their fight for life and hope.
The housing project, called Athena, becomes a real battlefield where a tragedy brings a community together, which becomes a family. Athena is a film that offers a raw and harrowing vision of grassroots resistance, which spreads like a wildfire: blinding, dangerous, all-consuming.
The film stars Dali Benssalah, Sami Slimane, Anthony Bajon, Ouassini Embarek and Alexis Manenti who all deliver remarkable performances. The story is a mix of tension, bravery and solidarity, which will keep you in suspense from start to finish. If you're looking to discover the best of French cinema on Netflix, Athena is a film not to be missed.
13. Leon: The Professional
In 1994, director Luc Besson gave us an unforgettable cinematic experience with Leon: The Professional. A daring, captivating and deeply moving film, which marked the advent of actress Natalie Portman.
Portman, then only 12 years old, delivered a stunning performance playing the role of Mathilda, a young girl who finds herself an apprentice hitman under the wing of Léon, played brilliantly by Jean Reno. Her performance, full of maturity and complexity, propelled Portman into the spotlight and established the film as a classic of French cinema.
In this poignant story, Mathilda, a child with a fragile soul, is brutally confronted with a violent world. Under Léon's tutelage, she toughens up and learns the tricks of being a hitman. This dramatic evolution of his character is beautifully staged and carried by Portman's breathtaking performance.
Léon: The Professional is a film that will captivate you from start to finish, a must-see for any cinema lover. Available on Netflix in France, this film is not to be missed in the list of the best French films to see on the platform.
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14. The Summit of the Gods
Let's now switch to French animation with « The Summit of the Gods« , a film that takes us to the high altitudes of the Himalayas. Inspired by the 1998 novel by Baku Yumemakura, this French anime film, directed by Patrick Imbert, is a fascinating exploration of obsession, sacrifice and identity.
The film follows the intertwined stories of two men: mountain climber Joji Habu, played by Eric Herson-Macarel, and journalist Makoto Fukamachi, voiced by Damien Boisseau. Their common quest? A legendary camera, the Kodak Vestpocket, which is said to have belonged to a missing mountaineer. It is not just a simple race to find a lost object, but a real introspection on personal motivation and the meaning of life.
Each character moves with deliberate intent, their animations heavy enough to leave footprints and cause mini avalanches of rocks. “The Summit of the Gods” is a subtle film, told in shades of white, which captivates the attention of spectators with its innovative storyline and its deeply human characters.
You will surely be moved by the austere beauty of the Himalayas and the touching story of these two men. On Netflix France, you can enjoy this masterpiece of French animation, which will hook you from start to finish.
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15. The Takedown
Let's dive into the fast-paced world of The Takedown, a witty action comedy that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This film, which features former partners, is not only a game of solving murder, but also a race against time to dismantle a terrorist plot orchestrated by white supremacists.
The main roles are played by Omar Sy and Laurent Lafitte, two renowned French actors, known for their talent for combining action and humor. Their on-screen chemistry brings a fun dimension to this otherwise tense storyline. Without forgetting Izïa Higelin, who brings a touch of strong and determined femininity to this action film.
The staging of Louis Leterrier, a French director who has worked on numerous American projects, is remarkable. He succeeds in brilliantly mixing eclectic influences to create a unique artistic sensibility. The Takedown is reminiscent of films like Bad Boys or Rush Hour, but stands out for its more assertive criticism of the police and its stronger anchoring in reality.
In short, The Takedown is a film that will captivate fans of intelligent action comedies. It offers a mix of suspense, humor and bravery, all in an atmosphere that is both light and intense. A film not to be missed on Netflix in 2023.
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16. Oxygen
Imagine being trapped in a confined space with a rapidly depleting amount of oxygen. This is exactly the terrifying situation presented Oxygen, a science fiction horror film that grabs the viewer's attention from the first seconds. Mélanie Laurent plays a woman who wakes up in a cryogenic chamber, with no memory of her identity or how she got there. His only companion is an artificial voice which tells him that his oxygen reserve is running out.
Directed by Alexandre Aja, a master of tension and suspense, Oxygen is a film that doesn't just scare. It also explores deep themes such as survival and human identity, making it a meaningful and touching work. The director uses the confined space of the cryogenic chamber to create an atmosphere of intense claustrophobia, thereby increasing the protagonist's sense of urgency and despair.
Mélanie Laurent's performance is both powerful and moving. Her character, faced with a life or death situation, is forced to face her deepest fears and draw on resources of courage that she did not know she possessed. His struggle for survival is a tribute to human resilience, which transforms Oxygen into a horror story with deep catharsis.
If you are looking for a thrilling film that will keep you in suspense until the last second, Oxygen is the perfect choice. But be careful, this film is not what you think. It transcends the conventions of the horror genre to deliver a unique and memorable viewing experience.
