Top Five French Films to Watch While Taking Classes in Oslo
“The Intouchables” is a film that transcends cultural boundaries, offering a heartwarming narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide. Directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, this French comedy-drama tells the true story of an unlikely friendship between Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, and Driss, a young man from the projects who becomes his caregiver. The film is a beautiful exploration of human connection, showcasing how two individuals from vastly different backgrounds can find common ground and enrich each other’s lives.
The chemistry between the lead actors, François Cluzet and Omar Sy, is palpable, bringing a delightful blend of humour and poignancy to the screen. The film’s charm lies not only in its engaging storyline but also in its ability to tackle serious themes with a light touch. It addresses issues such as disability, class disparity, and the importance of friendship without becoming overly sentimental.
The comedic elements are expertly woven into the narrative, providing moments of levity that balance the more serious undertones. “The Intouchables” has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its uplifting message and the way it encourages viewers to embrace life, regardless of the challenges they may face. Registration for French classes at the NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo is now open.
Summary
- “The Intouchables” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
- “Amélie” is a quirky and charming romantic comedy that will capture your heart with its whimsical storytelling.
- “La Haine” is a gritty and powerful urban drama that offers a raw and unflinching look at life in the Parisian suburbs.
- “The Artist” is a silent film homage to classic Hollywood that will transport you back to the golden age of cinema.
- “A Prophet” is a gripping and intense crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat with its compelling storytelling.
Amélie: A Quirky and Charming Romantic Comedy
“Amélie,” directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, is a whimsical romantic comedy that invites viewers into the enchanting world of Montmartre in Paris. The film follows the life of Amélie Poulain, a shy and imaginative young woman who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better while grappling with her own isolation. Audrey Tautou’s portrayal of Amélie is nothing short of captivating; her quirky mannerisms and infectious smile draw audiences into her charming yet peculiar universe.
The film’s visual style is equally striking, with its vibrant colours and imaginative cinematography creating a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements Amélie’s whimsical adventures. At its core, “Amélie” is a celebration of love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and self-love. The film’s narrative is interwoven with a series of delightful vignettes that showcase the lives of various characters, each adding depth to Amélie’s journey.
The film’s unique storytelling approach, combined with its enchanting score by Yann Tiersen, creates an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. “Amélie” has become a beloved classic, inspiring countless viewers to seek out the beauty in everyday life and reminding us that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on those around us.
La Haine: A Gritty and Powerful Urban Drama
“La Haine,” directed by Mathieu Kassovitz, is a powerful urban drama that delves into the complexities of social unrest and racial tension in France. Set in the aftermath of a riot in the Parisian suburbs, the film follows three young men—Vinz, Saïd, and Hubert—over the course of 24 hours as they navigate their frustrations and fears in a society that seems to have abandoned them. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography enhances its raw intensity, capturing the gritty reality of life in the banlieues while also serving as a metaphor for the characters’ emotional states.
The performances in “La Haine” are nothing short of extraordinary, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Vinz’s explosive anger, Saïd’s humour, and Hubert’s quiet resilience create a dynamic interplay that reflects the struggles faced by many young people in marginalised communities. The film’s unflinching portrayal of violence and despair is balanced by moments of camaraderie and hope, making it a poignant commentary on the cyclical nature of violence and the search for identity in an unforgiving world.
“La Haine” remains relevant today, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding race, class, and social justice.
The Artist: A Silent Film Homage to Classic Hollywood
“The Artist,” directed by Michel Hazanavicius, is a remarkable homage to the silent film era that captivated audiences with its nostalgic charm and innovative storytelling. Set in Hollywood between the late 1920s and early 1930s, the film follows the rise and fall of silent film star George Valentin as he grapples with the advent of sound in cinema. Jean Dujardin’s performance as Valentin is both charismatic and poignant, capturing the essence of a bygone era while conveying deep emotions without uttering a single word.
The film’s black-and-white aesthetic and use of intertitles transport viewers back in time, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the artistry of early filmmaking. What makes “The Artist” truly exceptional is its ability to convey complex themes such as love, ambition, and loss through visual storytelling alone. The absence of dialogue challenges both the actors and the audience to engage with the characters on a deeper level, relying on expressions and gestures to communicate their feelings.
The film’s score, composed by Ludovic Bource, further enhances its emotional impact, evoking nostalgia while complementing the on-screen action. “The Artist” not only pays tribute to classic Hollywood but also serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to transcend language barriers and evoke universal emotions.
A Prophet: A Gripping and Intense Crime Thriller
“A Prophet,” directed by Jacques Audiard, is a gripping crime thriller that immerses viewers in the harsh realities of prison life. The film follows Malik El Djebena, a young Arab man who enters a French prison as an illiterate outsider but quickly learns to navigate the treacherous world within its walls. As he becomes embroiled in the power struggles between rival gangs, Malik’s transformation from a vulnerable inmate to a cunning player in the criminal underworld is both compelling and unsettling.
Tahar Rahim’s performance as Malik is nothing short of extraordinary; he embodies the character’s evolution with nuance and depth. The film’s gritty realism is enhanced by its meticulous attention to detail, capturing the oppressive atmosphere of prison life while exploring themes of identity, survival, and loyalty. Audiard masterfully balances moments of tension with introspective character development, allowing viewers to witness Malik’s internal struggles as he grapples with his moral compass amidst chaos.
“A Prophet” is not just a crime thriller; it is a profound exploration of human resilience and the choices we make when faced with adversity. The film received critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying its place as one of the most significant works in contemporary French cinema.
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly: A Visually Stunning and Emotionally Powerful Drama
“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly,” directed by Julian Schnabel, is an emotionally powerful drama based on the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, a former editor of Elle magazine who suffers a massive stroke that leaves him with locked-in syndrome. The film offers an intimate glimpse into Bauby’s world as he learns to communicate through blinking his left eye while trapped within his own body. Mathieu Amalric’s portrayal of Bauby is hauntingly beautiful; he captures both the despair and resilience of a man who refuses to be defined by his condition.
Visually stunning and innovative in its storytelling approach, “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” immerses viewers in Bauby’s perspective through creative cinematography that reflects his fragmented thoughts and memories. The use of dreamlike sequences allows audiences to experience his imagination and longing for freedom while contrasting sharply with his harsh reality. The film’s emotional depth is further enhanced by its poignant score, which underscores Bauby’s journey from despair to acceptance.
“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and reminds us of the power of imagination even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Blue Is the Warmest Colour: A Controversial and Intimate Love Story
“Blue Is the Warmest Colour,” directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, is an intimate coming-of-age love story that explores themes of passion, identity, and self-discovery. The film follows Adèle, a high school student who embarks on a transformative journey when she meets Emma, an older art student with striking blue hair. Their relationship unfolds over several years, capturing both the exhilaration and challenges of first love.
Léa Seydoux and Adèle Exarchopoulos deliver powerful performances that authentically portray the complexities of their characters’ emotions. While “Blue Is the Warmest Colour” received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of love and desire, it also sparked controversy due to its explicit content and depiction of intimacy. The film’s unflinching approach to sexuality challenges societal norms and invites discussions about representation in cinema.
Kechiche’s direction immerses viewers in Adèle’s emotional landscape, allowing them to experience her joys and heartbreaks intimately. Ultimately, “Blue Is the Warmest Colour” stands as a bold exploration of love that transcends gender boundaries while highlighting the importance of self-acceptance.
The Class: An Insightful and Thought-Provoking Look at Education
“The Class,” directed by Laurent Cantet, offers an insightful examination of contemporary education through the lens of an inner-city classroom in Paris. Based on François Bégaudeau’s autobiographical novel, the film follows a year in the life of teacher François Marin as he navigates the challenges posed by a diverse group of students from various cultural backgrounds. Cantet’s documentary-style approach lends authenticity to the narrative, capturing real classroom dynamics while addressing issues such as language barriers, cultural differences, and social inequality.
The performances in “The Class” are remarkable; Bégaudeau himself plays François Marin with sincerity and relatability. The film does not shy away from depicting conflicts between students and teachers but instead embraces these moments as opportunities for growth and understanding. Through candid conversations and interactions, “The Class” highlights the complexities of education in today’s multicultural society while emphasising the importance of empathy and communication.
This thought-provoking film serves as both a critique of traditional educational methods and an exploration of how teachers can inspire their students to reach their full potential.
Delicatessen: A Dark and Surreal Post-Apocalyptic Comedy
“Delicatessen,” directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, is a darkly comedic tale set in a post-apocalyptic world where food scarcity has led to bizarre culinary practices. The film follows Louison, a former circus clown who moves into an apartment building above a butcher shop run by a sinister owner who has taken up cannibalism as a means of survival. With its unique blend of surrealism and absurdity, “Delicatessen” captivates audiences with its imaginative storytelling and striking visual style.
The film’s whimsical yet macabre atmosphere is enhanced by its meticulous production design, which creates an otherworldly environment filled with eccentric characters. The performances are equally memorable; Dominique Pinon shines as Louison, embodying both vulnerability and resilience amidst chaos. “Delicatessen” cleverly critiques societal norms while exploring themes such as love, sacrifice, and survival in extreme circumstances.
Its offbeat humour combined with poignant moments makes it an unforgettable cinematic experience that lingers long after viewing.
La Vie en Rose: A Biographical Drama about the Legendary Édith Piaf
“La Vie en Rose,” directed by Olivier Dahan, is a biographical drama that chronicles the tumultuous life of legendary French singer Édith Piaf. Marion Cotillard delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Piaf, capturing her extraordinary talent alongside her struggles with love, loss, addiction, and fame. The film takes viewers on an emotional journey through Piaf’s life—from her humble beginnings on the streets of Paris to her rise as one of France’s most beloved icons.
Dahan’s direction beautifully intertwines Piaf’s music with her personal story; each song serves as both a reflection of her experiences and an expression of her innermost feelings. The cinematography captures both the glamour and grit of Piaf’s world while immersing audiences in her passionate performances. “La Vie en Rose” not only celebrates Piaf’s musical legacy but also serves as a poignant reminder of her resilience in overcoming adversity throughout her life—a testament to her enduring spirit that continues to inspire generations.
The 400 Blows: A Seminal Coming-of-Age Film from the French New Wave
“The 400 Blows,” directed by François Truffaut, is often regarded as one of the seminal works of French New Wave cinema—a poignant coming-of-age story that resonates with audiences across generations. The film follows Antoine Doinel, a young boy growing up in Paris who feels alienated from his family and school environment. Truffaut’s semi-autobiographical narrative captures Antoine’s struggles with authority figures while exploring themes such as rebellion, loneliness, and self-discovery.
Jean-Pierre Léaud’s performance as Antoine is both heartfelt and relatable; he embodies the spirit of youth grappling with societal expectations while yearning for freedom. Truffaut’s innovative storytelling techniques—such as handheld camera work—create an intimate connection between viewers and Antoine’s experiences. “The 400 Blows” remains influential not only for its artistic merit but also for its honest portrayal of adolescence—a timeless exploration that continues to resonate with audiences today as they navigate their own journeys toward adulthood.
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