With the temperatures dropping over here in France, we find ourselves often opting for a cozy night in with a soft blanket, a warm drink in hand, and perhaps some popcorn.
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In order to travel to France without leaving the comfort of your couch, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite French and France-inspired films. These movies will deliver inspiring, Francophile journeys and forbidden love stories straight to your living room. And… action!
The Intouchables
Directed by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano (2011)
Grab a box of tissues and snuggle up with this heartwarming film based on a true story about an unlikely friendship between a wealthy paraplegic in need of assistance and an ex-convict in need of a job. Driss’s energy for having fun matches that of Philippe’s who doesn’t hold back regardless of his disabilities. Together, the pair make you appreciate the wonderful gift of life.
Amélie
Directed by Jean-Pierre Jounet (2001)
One of the greatest French classics, Amélie is the story of a young girl hidden from the world by her overly protective father, leaving her to create her own imaginative universe. Once she grows older, she moves to Paris as a waitress and devotes her life to changing the lives of the eclectic collection of people around her. Along the way, she realizes she’s losing herself and works to take back hold of her life to create the beautiful world she dreamed up as a child.
A Good Year
Directed by Ridley Scott (2006)
The city life of London banker Max Skinner takes a turn for the countryside when his distant uncle dies and he suddenly inherits a château and vineyard in Provence. Heading to France with the intention of selling the estate where he spent part of his childhood, Max starts to realize the bliss that comes with slowing down. Plus, a beautiful love interest alongside a young American girl claiming to be his daughter throw a bit of a wrench into his plans…
Julie & Julia
Directed by Nora Ephron (2009)
Inspired by Julia Child’s passion and journey to becoming one of the world’s most renowned chefs, Julie Powell pursues her own adventure in Child’s footsteps. Cooking her way through all 524 recipes in her cookbook, Powell blogs daily about her own journey in an attempt to spice up her dull life. Based on two true stories, this film reminds you that anyone can cook – and might inspire you to whip up some hearty French dishes.
Eiffel
Directed by Martin Bourboulan (2021)
The history of Gustave Eiffel’s creation of his namesake tower gets twisted up in a forbidden love story in this tantalizing French film. After just finishing the Statue of Liberty, Eiffel is asked by the French government to design something spectacular to showcase at the 1889 World Fair in Paris. Initially unmotivated, his passion is reignited when he is unexpectedly reunited with an alluring woman from his past.
The Hundred-Foot Journey
Directed by Lasse Hallström (2014)
When the family of talented chef Hassan Kadam flees political violence in India, they seek new beginnings and find a rare opportunity to open an Indian restaurant in the South of France. The problem is, there’s a Michelin-starred French restaurant just across the street who doesn’t want competition. Long-established customs collide in this heart-warming story about two traditional cultures initially butting heads but ultimately inspiring and enriching one another.
Photos © IMDb