The 5 Greatest French Films Of All Time

France boasts a rich and diverse film heritage that has captivated audiences for decades. Since the Lumière brothers held the world's first public film screening in 1895, it has steadily grown into the sixth-largest film industry globally, producing a wide range of genres from romance and comedy to drama and war films. Yet, amidst this vast collection, there are exceptional French movies that have left an indelible mark in the realm of cinema. Here, we present a captivating bouquet of the greatest French films ever made.

5. Hiroshima Mon Amour (1959)

In this rare French-Japanese co-production, Alain Resnais masterfully weaves a non-linear tale of love against the haunting backdrop of the Atomic Bomb's devastation. This French New Wave classic transcends conventional narratives, employing extensive conversations and flashbacks to explore the relationship between a Japanese architect and a French actress. Its impact on moviemaking cannot be overstated. By breaking free from linear construction, Hiroshima Mon Amour opened up new possibilities for storytelling and artistic expression.

4. Cléo From 5 to 7 (1962)

Helmed by the visionary Agnès Varda, Cléo From 5 to 7 is a sublime offering from the French New Wave movement. This intensely intimate film recounts the story of a young singer awaiting the results of a potentially life-altering medical examination. Capturing the beauty of Paris, the narrative takes viewers on a spiritual journey of self-discovery, showcasing Varda's unparalleled ability to blend drama with subtle humor.

3. Playtime (1967)

Constructed with finesse by Jacques Tati, Playtime surpasses its predecessors to become the director's crowning achievement. With Monsieur Hulot's innocent clumsiness as the centerpiece, this visually stunning film portrays his comical adventures in a remarkably modern and chaotic Paris. Displaying a sense of enchantment, while touching on the realities of contemporary society, Playtime paints a charming picture of humanity in the face of an urban labyrinth.

2. The 400 Blows (1959)

François Truffaut's The 400 Blows remains an influential cornerstone of French cinema. As a coming-of-age masterpiece from the New Wave movement, this semi-autobiographical film showcases a rebellious young boy yearning for understanding amidst a world of misunderstanding. Truffaut's poignant storytelling resonates deeply, reserving a place in the hearts of auteurs like Steven Spielberg, Richard Linklater, and Wes Anderson.

1. Breathless (1960)

Jean-Luc Godard's undeniable magnum opus, Breathless, defines itself as a true icon of the French New Wave movement and remains a timeless piece deemed one of the greatest films ever created. Starring Jean Seberg and Jean-Paul Belmondo, the film unfolds the story of a petty criminal on the run after impulsively committing a heinous act. Breathless not only presented riveting performances but also revolutionized cinema with its bold style, characterized by inventive jump cuts. Its pervasive influence reverberates across generations of filmmakers around the globe.

This list features only a glimpse of the tremendous cinematic legacy that France holds. Countless other remarkable films have graced the silver screen, each adding its unique touch to the captivating tapestry of French cinema.

Earlier, SSP wrote about top 5 Leonardo DiCaprio films.