If you’re looking for the best French films to stream on Netflix right now, we’ve got you covered. From the box-office hit Astérix & Obélix to Laurent Laffite’s comedy Dear Mother and Jacques Audiard’s best film Rust & Bone, here are seven French-language movies on Netflix you should watch right now.
1. Ad Vitam (Ad Vitam)
”Ad Vitam” is a must-watch French thriller released on Netflix on January 10, 2025. Directed by Rodolphe Lauga and co-written by Guillaume Canet, who also stars as Franck Lazareff, a former GIGN operative. The plot centers on Franck’s desperate quest to rescue his pregnant wife, Léo, portrayed by Stéphane Caillard, after she is abducted by a criminal organization tied to his past. The film delves into themes of loyalty and redemption, with Franck confronting his history to save his family. Since its release, “Ad Vitam” has garnered significant attention, becoming one of Netflix’s most-watched non-English films. Critics have praised Canet’s compelling performance and the film’s intense action sequences, though some note a predictable storyline.
2. Rust and Bone (De rouille et d’os)
One of the best French movies of the last decade, Rust and Bone is a powerful drama that follows the love story between a struggling boxer and a killer whale trainer whose life takes a tragic turn. Directed by Jacques Audiard (director of the Oscar-nominated movie Emilia Pérez, now in theaters) and starring Marion Cotillard, this film is a stunning depiction of love, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships. If you appreciate deeply emotional stories, this French film is a must-see.
3. Family Packs (Loups-Garous)
A fun watch for those who love comedy, Family Packs is based on the cart game Werewolves, which inspired the TV show The Traitors. When an old card game comes to life, a family travels back in time and lands in a medieval village where they must unmask werewolves in order to return to their own time. This unique French film is a perfect family comedy with its mix of action comedy and family drama. An entertaining and delicieux choice for a lighthearted movie night.
4. Astérix & Obélix: The Middle Kingdom (Astérix & Obélix : L’Empire du Milieu)
For fans of bande dessinée, this action comedy is a fresh take on the classic Astérix and Obélix characters. In this adventure, the duo travels to China to help an empress reclaim her throne. Starring French actors Guillaume Canet and Gilles Lellouche, Astérix & Obélix: The Middle Kingdom is packed with jokes and special effects. If you French movies based on comics, then this is a must-watch on Netflix.
5. Madame Claude (Madame Claude)
A stylish thriller, Madame Claude dives into the scandalous life of France’s most infamous brothel owner. This French film takes us through 1960s Paris, where Madame Claude ran an elite escort service linked to politicians and celebrities. The film is both visually stunning and deeply intriguing, making it one of the best French movies on Netflix right now.
6. Dear Mother (L’Origine du monde)
A dark comedy starring Laurent Lafitte, Dear Mother tells the bizarre yet hilarious story of a man whose heart stops beating—but he remains alive. To solve this mystery, he must undergo an unusual spiritual journey guided by his mother. With its blend of absurd humor and existential questioning, this French film is a fun watch for those who enjoy offbeat storytelling.
7. Under Paris (Sous la Seine)
This gripping thriller takes us deep beneath Paris, where a group of scientists and divers uncover a terrifying secret lurking in the Seine. Combining elements of horror, suspense, and environmental commentary, Under Paris is a must-watch for fans of mystery and intrigue. It’s one of the best French movies currently streaming on Netflix.
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