I still remember the night I wasted $50 on a foreign film that I thought was highly acclaimed but turned out to be a snoozefest. It was 2019, and I was at a local film festival, eager to expand my cinematic horizons. The movie, a French drama, had glowing reviews, but I couldn’t make it past the first 30 minutes. I felt frustrated and disappointed, wondering if I just didn’t get it or if the hype was misleading. That night, I realized I needed a better way to discover foreign films that were genuinely worth my time.
Why Watch Foreign Films?
Foreign films offer a window into different cultures, storytelling styles, and perspectives that you won’t find in mainstream Hollywood blockbusters. They can challenge your worldview, introduce you to new emotions, and even make you laugh or cry in ways you didn’t expect. Plus, many of these films are critically acclaimed for a reason—they’re expertly crafted and often push the boundaries of cinema.
But how do you sift through the vast array of options and find the gems? Here’s my guide to critically acclaimed foreign films you should watch, based on what I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way.
Start with the Oscars
If you’re new to foreign films, the Academy Awards are a great place to start. The Best International Feature Film category highlights the best non-English language films from around the world. These movies have already been vetted by industry experts, so you can trust that they’re worth your time.
- Parasite (2019) – This South Korean thriller by Bong Joon-ho made history by winning the Oscar for Best Picture, becoming the first non-English language film to do so. It’s a gripping tale of class struggle that keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you haven’t seen it yet, fix that immediately.
- Roma (2018) – Alfonso Cuarón’s Mexican drama is a visually stunning masterpiece that tells the story of a domestic worker in Mexico City. It won three Oscars, including Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film. The black-and-white cinematography alone is worth the watch.
Explore Streaming Platforms
Streaming services have made it easier than ever to access foreign films. Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and MUBI curate collections of international cinema, often with recommendations based on your viewing history.
For example, Netflix’s “Top 10 in Foreign Films” list updates in real-time, giving you an idea of what’s popular among other viewers. In August 2023, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf was topping the charts, but if you’re looking for something more traditional, The Handmaiden (2016) is a South Korean psychological thriller that’s a must-watch. It’s a brilliant adaptation of Sarah Waters’ novel Fingersmith and was praised for its detailed plot and stunning visuals.
Check Out Film Festivals
Film festivals are where many critically acclaimed foreign films make their debut. Festivals like Cannes, Sundance, and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) are known for showcasing the best in international cinema. If a film wins an award at one of these festivals, it’s a good bet that it’s worth watching.
- Drive My Car (2021) – This Japanese drama by Ryusuke Hamaguchi won the Oscar for Best International Feature Film and was praised for its emotional depth and complex storytelling. It’s based on a Haruki Murakami short story and explores themes of grief, love, and art.
- The Worst Person in the World (2021) – This Norwegian romantic comedy-drama by Joachim Trier was a hit at the Cannes Film Festival. It’s a heartfelt and relatable story about a young woman navigating life, love, and career choices. The film’s humor and authenticity make it a standout.
Seek Out Director Showcases
Some directors are known for their ability to craft unforgettable foreign films. If you find a director whose work you love, exploring their filmography can lead you to more hidden gems.
For example, if you enjoyed Parasite, you might want to check out Bong Joon-ho’s other films, like The Host (2006) or Memories of Murder (2003). Both are critically acclaimed and showcase his unique storytelling style. Similarly, if you loved Roma, you might want to explore Alfonso Cuarón’s other works, like Children of Men (2006) or Y Tu Mamá También (2001).
Look for Awards and Top 10 Lists
Awards and top 10 lists are great resources for finding critically acclaimed foreign films. Websites like Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and IMDb often publish lists of the best foreign films of the year or all time. These lists are compiled based on reviews from critics and ratings from viewers, so you can trust that the films on them are worth your time.
For example, Spirited Away (2001) by Hayao Miyazaki is often ranked as one of the greatest animated films of all time. It won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature and is a beloved classic. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s a must-watch. Another example is City of God (2002), a Brazilian crime drama that’s often included on lists of the best foreign films of the 21st century. It’s a gripping tale of violence and survival in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro.
Join a Film Club or Online Community
If you’re still unsure where to start, consider joining a film club or online community focused on foreign cinema. These groups often host screenings, discussions, and recommendations that can help you discover new films. Websites like Letterboxd and Reddit have active communities of film enthusiasts who share their favorite foreign films and offer insights into why they’re worth watching.
Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks
Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks and explore films that might be outside of your comfort zone. Some of the most rewarding foreign films are the ones that challenge your expectations and introduce you to new perspectives. Even if a film doesn’t end up being your favorite, the experience of watching it can still be valuable.
For example, The Square (2017) by Ruben Östlund is a Swedish satirical drama that won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the art world and its absurdities. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts
Watching foreign films can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to approach them with an open mind and a willingness to learn. By starting with the Oscars, exploring streaming platforms, checking out film festivals, seeking out director showcases, looking for awards and top 10 lists, joining a film club or online community, and taking risks, you can discover a wealth of critically acclaimed foreign films that are worth your time.
And remember, not every film will be a hit with you, and that’s okay. The important thing is to keep exploring and finding the films that hit home with you. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite movie.
So, grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and start your foreign film journey. Your movie nights will never be the same.
