Paris, the City of Light, has long been the ultimate backdrop for stories of love, mystery, and adventure. If you’re craving a taste of the French capital from the comfort of your couch, these French movies on Netflix set in Paris are your perfect cinematic escape.

Classic French films set in Paris, such as “Amélie” (Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain) directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, offer a whimsical and romantic view of Montmartre through the eyes of a shy waitress played by Audrey Tautou. This film not only highlights the quaint cafes and bustling markets but also captures the very essence of Parisianlife, making it a must-watch for fans of French cinema.

The French New Wave also left its mark on Parisian streets with films like 400 Blows (Les 400 coups) by François Truffaut “Breathless” (À bout de souffle), directed by Jean-Luc Godard and starring Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg. This groundbreaking movie took audiences on a raw, cinematic journey through Paris, capturing the spirit of a generation.

Paris viewed by Hollywood

American filmmakers have also embraced Paris as a muse. Although a fantastical take on the famous cabaret, “Moulin Rouge” by Baz Luhrmann evokes the bohemian allure of the city. Similarly, “Midnight in Paris” by Woody Allen offers a magical exploration of Paris. The movie blendsnostalgia with the romantic charm of the city’s artistic past, featuring stars like Owen Wilson and Marion Cotillard. These films set in Paris showcase the city’s timeless appeal and its ability to transport viewers into its cinematic landscapes.

The Impact of “Emily in Paris” on Parisian Tourism

Netflix’s “Emily in Paris”, starring Lily Collins and created by Darren Star, has brought a dream-like version of Paristo international audiences, much like Jean-Pierre Jeunet’ Amélie. With its picturesque portrayal of Parisian life, including shots of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower, and quaint Parisian cafes, the show has become a hit, despite its idealized depiction of the city. The show has boosted Parisian tourism, with many fans eager to visit the iconic spots showcased, like the Palais Royal Gardens and the charming streets of Le Marais. Though criticized for its clichés, “Emily in Paris” has undoubtedly rekindled global interest in Paris, proving that the city remains a beloved backdrop for romantic comedy.

Finding the Best French Movies and TV Shows Set in Paris

For those looking to experience the magic of Paris from the comfort of their home, Netflix offers a variety of French filmsand TV shows set in the iconic city. Exploring Parisian life, these films range from romantic comedies to intense dramas and thrillers. Here are some top picks to watch:

“Friendzone” (2021) by Charles Van Tieghem

In this romantic comedy on Netflix, “Friendzone”, we follow the life of a hopeless romantic who struggles to escape the friend zone with a girl he has long adored. The film, directed by Charles Van Tieghem, captures Paris’s modern, vibrant side, from its stylish bars to its romantic, nighttime street scenes. This contemporary take on Parisian romance provides a fun, lighthearted look at the complexities of dating in the city of love.

“I Am Not an Easy Man” (Je ne suis pas un homme facile)

Directed by Éléonore Pourriat, “I Am Not an Easy Man” flips gender roles in a humorous and thought-provoking way. A self-proclaimed ladies’ man, played by Vincent Elbaz, wakes up in an alternate Paris where traditional gender roles are reversed. This comedic satire explores the city’s vibrant streets, with notable scenes shot in the bustling areas of Le Marais and the iconic Place de la République. It gives viewers a fresh perspective on Parisian life through its clever social commentary.

“Under Paris” (Sous la Seine)

For fans of thrillers, “Under Paris”, directed by Luc Besson, dives into the darker, mysterious side of the city. This horror film follows a grieving scientist who faces her tragic past when a giant shark appears in the Seine, threatening to unleash chaos on Paris. With breathtaking shots of the Seine at night, the film captures the eerie, atmospheric side of Paris, offering a unique cinematic experience for those who enjoy a blend of suspense and stunning Parisian scenery.

“Madame Claude”

Directed by Sylvie Verheyde, “Madame Claude” is a biographical drama that delves into the life of Madame Claude, an infamous brothel owner in 1960s Paris. The film beautifully recreates Paris of the 1960s, transporting viewers back in time to an era of glamour and intrigue. Featuring Karole Rocher in the titular role, this film provides a glimpse into the underworld of Parisian high society, set against a backdrop of iconic Parisian locations, blending drama with historical insight.

Parisian Suburbs in Focus: “Divines” and “Athena”

Not all films set in Paris focus on the city’s glamorous center. “Divines”, directed by Houda Benyamina, takes us to the outskirts of Paris, where two friends, played by Oulaya Amamra and Déborah Lukumuena, dream of escaping their life of poverty through crime. The film provides a raw, authentic look at the Parisian suburbs, offering a different narrative from the usual romanticized portrayals of Paris. Similarly, “Athena”, directed by Romain Gavras, explores the intense conflict between two brothers after the tragic death of their sibling. This powerful drama, set in the gritty, lesser-seen areas of Paris, delves into the tensions and social issues of modern-day France, showcasing the city’s complexities beyond its picturesque image.

“The Eddy”: A French-American Collaboration

For those who enjoy music-driven dramas, Netflix’s “The Eddy”, directed by Damien Chazelle and starring André Holland and Joanna Kulig, is a must-watch. Set in a Parisian jazz club, this French-American series offers a gritty, authentic portrayal of the city’s nightlife and vibrant music scene. The show captures various aspects of Paris, from its hidden alleys to bustling markets, painting a vivid picture of the city’s diverse, multicultural identity. With its jazz-filled soundtrack and compelling storyline, “The Eddy” stands out as a unique exploration of Parisian life.

Explore Paris on Netflix

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic comedy, a thrilling horror film, or a deep dive into the city’s vibrant suburbs, Netflix offers a plethora of movies and TV shows set in Paris. From timeless classics to modern hits, these films capture the essence of Paris in all its forms, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the magic of Parisiancinema from their own home.

Classic French Films Set in Paris

The post-war era of the 1950s marked the beginning of Paris’s illustrious run as a cinematic backdrop, defining the aesthetics of classic French movies. Directors like Jean-Pierre Melville, known for his atmospheric noir films, used the city as a character in its own right. His film “Bob le Flambeur” (1956), often cited as a precursor to the French New Wave, features Paris’s Montmartre district with its smoky bars and gambling dens, offering a gritty look at the city’s underworld.

New Wave highlights the new Paris

The 1960s then saw the explosion of the French New Wave (La Nouvelle Vague), with iconic directors like François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard revolutionizing cinema. “The 400 Blows” (Les Quatre Cents Coups) by François Truffaut captures a young boy’s rebellious life against the backdrop of Paris’s bustling streets, making it one of the most poignant films set in the city. Similarly, “Breathless” (À bout de souffle) by Jean-Luc Godard took audiences on a thrilling journey through the heart of Paris, blending crime, romance, and the freewheeling spirit of the era. These films didn’t just tell stories; they immortalized Paris as a hub of creativity, romance, and rebellion.

As the decades progressed, Paris continued to be a central character in French cinema. The 1970s saw a shift towards introspective, romantic dramas, with films like “Last Tango in Paris” (1972) by Bernardo Bertolucci exploring the intense emotions and complexities of life in the city. The iconic image of Marlon Brando wandering through the narrow Parisian streets remains etched in the minds of film enthusiasts.

Paris in the 80-90s: Far from the postcard

The 1980s brought a wave of comedies and dramas that highlighted the changing social landscape of Paris. Films like “Diva” (1981) by Jean-Jacques Beineix showcased the city’s vibrant music scene, blending the beauty of Parisian opera houses with suspenseful storytelling. Moving into the 1990s, the romantic comedy “French Kiss” (1995), directed by Lawrence Kasdan and starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, provided an American perspective on Paris, reflecting the city’s status as an eternal symbol of love and romance.

Meanwhile, “La Haine” (1995) by Mathieu Kassovitz offered a raw, unfiltered look at the tensions simmering in the Parisian suburbs, far removed from the postcard image of the city. This powerful drama captured the stark realities of youth and discontent, making it one of the most significant French films of the decade. The movie inspired many more directors to focus on Paris’ suburbs and rougher area.

From the glamorous lights of the Eiffel Tower to the grittier, unpolished streets of the suburbs, classic French films of the 50s to the 90s have cemented Paris as a versatile, ever-evolving muse for filmmakers worldwide.