17/10/2024
Nicole Newton

12 must-see foreign films

Let’s face it – these Hollywood blockbusters are becoming pretty stale. The same recycled plots and the same old selection of actors can get a bit boring, which is why many people are branching out to foreign films.

If you’re ready for something fresh, the world of foreign films is where it’s at! From spellbinding dramas to pulse-pounding thrillers, these international gems are packed with unforgettable stories. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into non-English cinema or you’re already a fan, this list has something for everyone!

In this blog:

Parasite

No foreign film list would be complete without mentioning Parasite. This masterpiece from director Bong Joon-ho took the world by storm, becoming the first non-English language film to win the Best Picture Oscar. A clever commentary on class divides, Parasite is darkly humorous, thrilling, and an absolute must-watch. Is this the best foreign film of all time? You decide!

Pan’s Labyrinth

Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth blends dark fantasy with the brutal realities of post-civil war Spain. A young girl’s journey through a magical yet dangerous labyrinth mirrors the horrors of her real life, creating a haunting, unforgettable experience. It’s easily one of the best foreign films you’ll ever see.

Spirited Away

For those who love animation, Spirited Away is a must-see. Hayao Miyazaki’s imaginative world is brought to life through beautiful hand-drawn animation, telling the story of a young girl trapped in a strange, mystical bathhouse. This movie is widely considered one of the best foreign movies for all ages, offering an enchanting journey for all ages.

Amélie

Amélie is a heartwarming tale about a quirky young woman who finds joy in helping others. Set in the picturesque streets of Paris, this film is full of whimsy, charm and feel-good vibes. If you’re looking for a sweet escape, this French gem is perfect.

The Platform

With The Platform 2 currently trending on Netflix, it’s the perfect time to revisit the original. This Netflix Original Spanish thriller is a dystopian nightmare that forces prisoners to fight for survival in a vertical prison where food descends floor by floor. Dark, disturbing and thought-provoking, The Platform is one of the best foreign films you can stream right now.

In the Mood for Love

This dreamy, romantic drama from Wong Kar-wai is as visually stunning as it is emotionally stirring. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, In the Mood for Love explores the delicate nuances of love, longing and missed connections. Its poetic beauty makes it one of the best international movies to revisit or discover for the first time.

Oldboy

A twisted, revenge-fueled thriller, Oldboy is not for the faint of heart. It follows a man mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years before being released and seeking vengeance on his captors. Director Park Chan-wook delivers an intense, violent and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Battle Royale

Before The Hunger Games, there was Battle Royale. This cult classic pits a group of high school students against each other in a deadly game of survival. Violent, shocking and deeply thought-provoking, it’s a must-watch for fans of dystopian thrillers.

Let the Right One In

This Swedish vampire film is hauntingly beautiful. Let the Right One In tells the story of a bullied boy who befriends a mysterious young girl… who turns out to be a vampire. It’s a chilling, atmospheric take on the genre, earning its place among the best foreign films.

Untouchable

For something lighter, Untouchable is a heartwarming and uplifting film about an unlikely friendship between a quadriplegic aristocrat and his free-spirited caregiver. Based on a true story, this French gem balances humour with touching moments, making it a feel-good watch.

Train to Busan

If you love zombie movies, Train to Busan is a fast-paced thrill ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As a zombie apocalypse breaks out in South Korea, a group of survivors fight to stay alive while trapped on a speeding train. It’s widely regarded as one of the best international movies (and one of the best zombie movies to date), so if you haven’t already, you should add it to your to-watch list!

City of God

Raw, gritty and powerful, City of God takes you into the violent favelas of Rio de Janeiro. It’s an intense depiction of gang life, told through the eyes of a young boy with dreams of becoming a photographer. Its fast-paced storytelling and visceral impact make it one of the best foreign films of all time.

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