The 50 Best Foreign Film Nominees You Need to Watch – Part 1

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - February 11th 2025, 16:00 GMT+1

Cropped About — About This Gallery:

For this list, we dove deep into the cinematic rabbit hole of Letterboxd user reviews and recommendations to create the ultimate ranking of the 50 best foreign films ever nominated for the Best International Feature Film Oscar (formerly Best Foreign Language Film).

This is Part 1, covering spots 50 to 26—because let’s be honest, cramming all 50 into one go would be a bit much. If you’re itching to see the rest in Part 2, don’t worry, you can check them out here!

Cropped A Prophet — 50. A Prophet (2009)

Prison movies tend to follow a predictable formula—tough new guy, brutal initiation, rise to power. But *A Prophet* takes that well-worn blueprint and injects it with raw intensity, razor-sharp storytelling, and a protagonist who evolves before our very eyes. Malik, a young French-Algerian, enters prison as a nobody and quickly realizes that survival means adaptation. Before long, he’s running the place, not with brute strength, but with intelligence, strategy, and a bit of luck. This is a gangster epic that feels almost Shakespearean, packed with tension and anchored by a breakout performance from Tahar Rahim. If you’ve ever wondered what *The Godfather* might look like behind bars, this one’s for you. | © Why Not Productions

Cropped La Strada — 49. La Strada (1954)

If there’s one thing Federico Fellini knew how to do, it was break your heart while making you laugh. *La Strada* is a tragic, poetic journey through post-war Italy, featuring a naïve young woman, Gelsomina, played by the incomparable Giulietta Masina, and the brutish strongman Zampanò, brought to life by Anthony Quinn. Their relationship is as tender as it is painful—think Beauty and the Beast, if the Beast was incapable of personal growth. Masina’s expressive, Chaplin-esque performance will stick with you long after the credits roll, and Nino Rota’s haunting score will echo in your head for days. If you ever doubted that cinema is an art form, *La Strada* will set you straight. | © Ponti-De Laurentiis Cinematografica

Cropped Betty Blue — 48. Betty Blue (1986)

Ah, *Betty Blue*—the movie that made a whole generation fall in love with passion, madness, and, let’s be honest, Béatrice Dalle. This is a film that wears its emotions on its sleeve, drenched in vibrant colors, impulsive love, and a looming sense of doom. At first, Betty and Zorg’s whirlwind romance feels like a dream—sun-soaked days, passionate nights, and a carefree existence. But soon, Betty’s fiery spirit turns into something darker, something uncontrollable. It’s a story of love that burns too brightly, consuming everything in its path. Whether you see it as a romantic tragedy or a cautionary tale depends on your perspective, but one thing’s for sure: you won’t forget it. | © Cargo Films

Cropped Amour — 47. Amour (2012)

Michael Haneke isn’t exactly known for making *feel-good* movies, and *Amour* is no exception. But while his previous films (*Funny Games, Cache, The White Ribbon*) often rely on psychological tension and shock, this one is pure, unfiltered heartbreak. The story follows an elderly couple, Anne and Georges, whose love is tested when Anne suffers a debilitating stroke. What unfolds is a painfully intimate portrayal of devotion, sacrifice, and the inevitable cruelty of time. Emmanuelle Riva and Jean-Louis Trintignant give performances so authentic, you’ll feel like you’re intruding on their private moments. If you’re looking for a lighthearted escape, look elsewhere. But if you’re willing to embrace a film that stares unflinchingly at life’s final chapter, *Amour* is a masterpiece. | © Les Films du Losange

Cropped Pain and Glory — 46. Pain and Glory (2019)

If cinema is therapy, *Pain and Glory* is Pedro Almodóvar lying on the couch, baring his soul for all to see. This semi-autobiographical tale follows Salvador Mallo, a washed-up filmmaker played by Antonio Banderas in what might be his best performance ever. Battling chronic pain, past regrets, and creative block, Mallo takes a trip down memory lane—one that’s soaked in Almodóvar’s signature vibrant colors and deeply personal storytelling. There’s nostalgia, heartbreak, and even a bit of humor, all wrapped up in a film that feels like a love letter to art, memory, and the wounds that shape us. Even if you’re not an Almodóvar fan, *Pain and Glory* might just change that. | © El Deseo

Cropped Woman in the Dunes — 45. Woman in the Dunes (1964)

Imagine this: you’re a schoolteacher, out on a field trip, enjoying some casual entomology (as one does), when suddenly, you find yourself trapped in a sandpit with a mysterious woman, endlessly shoveling sand to survive. Welcome to *Woman in the Dunes*, Hiroshi Teshigahara’s hypnotic, existential nightmare that somehow makes grains of sand feel more menacing than an entire army. This isn’t just a survival story—it’s an eerie meditation on isolation, human nature, and the absurdity of existence, all set against a backdrop of endlessly shifting dunes. Is it horror? Is it romance? Is it a metaphor for modern life? Who’s to say? One thing’s for sure: you’ll never look at sand the same way again. | © Toho

Cropped Fanny Alexander — 44. Fanny & Alexander (1982)

If you think childhood is all innocence and wonder, Ingmar Bergman is here to remind you that it can also be existential dread and religious oppression. *Fanny & Alexander* starts as a lush, enchanting portrait of a privileged Swedish family, seen through the eyes of young Alexander and his sister Fanny. But when their beloved father dies and their mother remarries a cold, authoritarian bishop, the magic of childhood is replaced by harsh reality. With its rich cinematography, mesmerizing performances, and a touch of the supernatural, this is Bergman at his most personal and nostalgic. Whether you watch the three-hour theatrical cut or the full five-hour TV version, *Fanny & Alexander* is an unforgettable epic about family, loss, and the power of imagination. | © Svensk Filmindustri

Cropped The Hand of God — 43. The Hand of God (2021)

Coming-of-age stories are a dime a dozen, but Paolo Sorrentino’s *The Hand of God* stands out by blending nostalgia, tragedy, and a touch of surrealism in a way only he can. Set in 1980s Naples, the film follows Fabietto, a teenage boy whose life is upended by an unexpected tragedy, forcing him to grow up far too soon. While the first half is lighthearted—filled with quirky relatives, stolen glances, and a deep love for soccer—the second half takes a turn into something far more introspective. Sorrentino pulls from his own past, making this feel like his most personal work yet. And yes, Diego Maradona’s legendary “Hand of God” goal plays a role in it all. Heartfelt, visually stunning, and deeply moving, this one will linger with you long after the credits roll. | © Netflix

Cropped Flow — 42. Flow (2024)

In a world where dialogue is overrated, *Flow* emerges as a visual symphony that speaks volumes without uttering a single word. Directed by Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis, this animated odyssey follows a resilient black cat whose tranquil life is upended by a catastrophic flood. Forced to navigate a submerged landscape, our feline protagonist encounters a motley crew of animal survivors—a capybara, a ring-tailed lemur, and even a secretary bird—each bringing their own quirks to this Noah's Ark-esque adventure.

Rendered entirely using Blender, an open-source software, *Flow* is a testament to the power of visual storytelling, proving that sometimes, actions (and stunning animation) speak louder than words. It's a mesmerizing journey that invites viewers to float along and find meaning in the currents of its artistry. | © Dream Well Studio

Cropped Capernaum — 41. Capernaum (2018)

If you thought *Slumdog Millionaire* was emotionally intense, *Capernaum* will hit you like a freight train. Directed by Nadine Labaki, this Lebanese drama follows 12-year-old Zain, a boy who sues his parents for bringing him into a world of hardship. Yes, you read that right—he literally takes them to court for giving him life. But before you judge, *Capernaum* takes you through the heartbreaking reality that led to that moment: a world of poverty, neglect, and resilience beyond his years. With its documentary-like realism, gut-wrenching performances (from mostly non-actors), and a story that feels all too real, this film is a punch to the soul. You won’t just watch *Capernaum*—you’ll feel every second of it. | © Mooz Films

Cropped The Battle of Algiers — 40. The Battle of Algiers (1966)

You know a film is powerful when both revolutionaries and military strategists use it as a reference. *The Battle of Algiers* isn’t just a movie—it’s an electrifying, nerve-wracking, documentary-style masterpiece that throws you into the chaos of Algeria’s fight for independence from French colonial rule. Forget Hollywood heroics; this film doesn’t pick sides—it simply shows the brutal realities of war, resistance, and the cost of freedom. Director Gillo Pontecorvo’s use of handheld cameras and real locations makes it feel so real that you might need to remind yourself you’re not watching actual news footage. It’s raw, intense, and disturbingly relevant even today. If you’ve ever wanted to understand guerrilla warfare or how oppression breeds revolution, this one is essential viewing. | © Casbah Film

Cropped Rashomon — 39. Rashomon (1950)

You know a film is legendary when it spawns its own storytelling term. The *Rashomon Effect*—where multiple people recall the same event in wildly different ways—comes from Akira Kurosawa’s iconic masterpiece. The premise is simple: a crime takes place in the woods, but every witness has a completely different version of what actually happened. Who’s telling the truth? Who’s lying? Is objective truth even possible? These are the kinds of questions that make *Rashomon* not just a film, but a philosophical debate disguised as cinema. Add in Toshiro Mifune’s wild-eyed, unhinged performance and Kurosawa’s groundbreaking cinematography, and you’ve got a film that changed storytelling forever. | © Daiei Film

Cropped Nights of Cabiria — 38. Nights of Cabiria (1957)

Fellini and heartbreak go together like pasta and wine, and *Nights of Cabiria* is a prime example. Giulietta Masina delivers one of the most endearing performances of all time as Cabiria, a wide-eyed, big-hearted woman navigating the rough streets of Rome, looking for love in all the wrong places. She’s tough, she’s hopeful, and she’s been let down more times than she can count—but she keeps going. The film swings between comedy and tragedy so effortlessly that you won’t even realize when your heart starts breaking. And that final scene? Pure cinematic magic. If you don’t love Cabiria by the end, you might not have a soul. | © Dino De Laurentiis Cinematografica

Cropped Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon — 37. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

There are action movies, and then there’s *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*—a film that turns martial arts into poetry. Directed by Ang Lee, this wuxia epic blends breathtaking fight sequences, sweeping romance, and stunning cinematography into something that feels both mythical and deeply human. Chow Yun-fat and Michelle Yeoh deliver performances full of quiet longing, while Zhang Ziyi steals the show as a rebellious warrior caught between duty and desire. And let’s talk about those fight scenes—gravity-defying battles across bamboo forests, rooftop chases, and duels that feel like ballet. This isn’t just a martial arts film; it’s a love letter to cinema itself. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Les Choristes — 36. Les Choristes (2004)

If *Dead Poets Society* and *The Sound of Music* had a French baby, it would be *Les Choristes*. This heartwarming drama follows Clément Mathieu, a down-on-his-luck music teacher who takes a job at a strict boys' boarding school and, against all odds, transforms the students’ lives through music. Yes, it’s sentimental. Yes, it follows a familiar underdog formula. But when those angelic choir voices start soaring, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the emotion. With beautiful cinematography, an unforgettable score, and a story that tugs at all the right heartstrings, *Les Choristes* is the kind of feel-good film that reminds you why music—and a good teacher—can change everything. | © Galatée Films

Cropped The Zone of Interest — 35. The Zone of Interest (2023)

Imagine setting up your dream home right next to one of history's most notorious sites. In *The Zone of Interest*, director Jonathan Glazer delivers a chilling narrative centered on Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, and his wife, Hedwig, as they attempt to craft an idyllic family life mere steps away from the horrors of the Holocaust. This film masterfully juxtaposes the banality of domestic bliss with the grotesque realities of genocide, forcing viewers to confront the unsettling proximity of evil to everyday life. With its haunting performances and stark cinematography, *The Zone of Interest* is a provocative exploration of moral compartmentalization and the human capacity for denial. | © A24, Access Entertainment, Film4, JW Films, Extreme Emotions

Cropped Farewell My Concubine — 34. Farewell My Concubine (1993)

Step into the vibrant yet tumultuous world of 20th-century China with *Farewell My Concubine*. Directed by Chen Kaige, this epic drama chronicles the intertwined lives of two Peking opera actors, Cheng Dieyi and Duan Xiaolou, whose bond is tested by personal passions and political upheavals. Spanning over five decades, the film delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between performance and reality. Leslie Cheung's portrayal of Dieyi is both haunting and mesmerizing, capturing the essence of a man caught between his art and his desires. A masterpiece of Chinese cinema, *Farewell My Concubine* offers a poignant reflection on love, betrayal, and the relentless march of history. | © Beijing Film Studio, Tomson Films

Cropped The Lives Of Others — 33. The Lives of Others (2006)

Ever wondered what it's like to have Big Brother watching your every move? *The Lives of Others* plunges us into 1980s East Berlin, where a dedicated Stasi officer, Gerd Wiesler, becomes entangled in the lives of a playwright and his lover. As he surveils them, Wiesler finds his cold, bureaucratic exterior cracking, leading to a profound internal transformation. This gripping narrative explores themes of surveillance, loyalty, and the redemptive power of art. With stellar performances and a tightly woven plot, the film serves as a haunting reminder of the perils of a surveillance state and the enduring resilience of the human spirit. | © Wiedemann & Berg Filmproduktion

Cropped A Separation — 32. A Separation (2011)

Marriage on the rocks? Now add legal battles, generational conflicts, and societal pressures into the mix. In *A Separation*, Iranian director Asghar Farhadi presents a compelling drama about a couple, Nader and Simin, grappling with the decision to leave Iran for a better future. Their personal turmoil escalates into a complex web of moral dilemmas involving their daughter, an ailing parent, and another family facing their own struggles. The film masterfully delves into themes of truth, justice, and the gray areas of human ethics, offering a nuanced portrayal of contemporary Iranian society. It's a thought-provoking narrative that challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of right and wrong. | © Asghar Farhadi Production

Cropped Mustang — 31. Mustang (2015)

Think your teenage years were restrictive? *Mustang* tells the story of five free-spirited sisters in rural Turkey whose innocent play with boys spirals into scandal, leading their conservative guardians to impose draconian measures to safeguard their 'honor'. As their home transforms into a virtual prison, the sisters' bond becomes their lifeline, and their rebellion against societal norms takes center stage. Director Deniz Gamze Ergüven crafts a poignant narrative about female empowerment, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the unbreakable spirit of youth. It's a heartfelt and inspiring tale that resonates with the universal desire for freedom and self-determination. | © CG Cinéma, Vistamar Filmproduktion, Uptime

Cropped Bicycle Thieves — 30. Bicycle Thieves (1948)

If you’ve ever had something stolen and thought, *"Well, that’s inconvenient,"* imagine if that *something* was your only means of survival. *Bicycle Thieves* is the granddaddy of Italian neorealism, a film so simple in its premise yet so devastating in its execution. It follows Antonio, a desperate father in post-war Rome, whose newly acquired bicycle—his ticket to employment—is stolen. What follows is a heartbreaking odyssey through the streets of Rome, as Antonio and his young son search for the missing bike and, in a way, for their dignity. This film doesn’t just tug at the heartstrings; it yanks them. No Hollywood heroics here—just the raw, unfiltered reality of survival in a world that doesn’t always play fair. | © Produzioni De Sica

Cropped The Secret in Their Eyes — 29. The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)

Murder mystery? Check. Slow-burning romance? Check. One of the most jaw-dropping long-take shots in film history? Oh, you better believe it. *The Secret in Their Eyes* is an Argentine thriller that weaves a gripping crime story with an aching, years-long love story, proving that unresolved cases aren’t the only things that haunt us. When a retired investigator revisits an unsolved brutal murder from his past, old wounds—both criminal and emotional—begin to resurface. Ricardo Darín delivers yet another phenomenal performance, and the film’s twists will leave you staring at the screen long after the credits roll. Also, did we mention that stadium tracking shot? Absolute magic. | © Tornasol Films

Cropped Wild Tales — 28. Wild Tales (2014)

Ever had a day where you just wanted to snap? *Wild Tales* is six short films rolled into one gloriously unhinged anthology about revenge, chaos, and human nature at its absolute breaking point. Whether it’s a roadside feud that escalates into a full-on war, a wedding that goes *very* off the rails, or a man deciding to take on bureaucratic injustice in the pettiest way possible, each story taps into that deep, primal urge to say, *“Enough is enough.”* Darkly funny, wildly unpredictable, and filled with moments that will make you gasp, *Wild Tales* is cinematic catharsis at its finest. If you’ve ever fantasized about going full scorched-earth on life’s annoyances, this film will speak to your soul. | © Kramer & Sigman Films

Cropped Cold War — 27. Cold War (2018)

If *La La Land* was dipped in grayscale, laced with melancholy, and set against the backdrop of post-war Europe, you’d get *Cold War*. This achingly beautiful love story follows a musician and a singer whose passion spans decades, crossing borders, political ideologies, and countless heartbreaks. Directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, the film is a visual masterpiece, shot in striking black-and-white cinematography that makes every frame look like a lost photograph from another era. The romance is doomed, the music is haunting, and the emotions hit like a freight train. If you’ve ever loved someone at the wrong time, in the wrong place, and with the wrong circumstances, *Cold War* will shatter you in the best way. | © Opus Film

Cropped Dogtooth — 26. Dogtooth (2009)

You think your parents were strict? Yorgos Lanthimos says, *Hold my absurdist Greek tragedy.* *Dogtooth* is a film that drops you into a world so unsettlingly bizarre yet terrifyingly plausible that you won’t know whether to laugh, cry, or stare in disbelief. The story follows a family whose three adult children have never stepped outside their home, raised in total isolation by controlling parents who have redefined language, reality, and freedom to keep them trapped. It’s eerie, hilarious, disturbing, and somehow deeply thought-provoking all at once. *Dogtooth* isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience that will stick with you, long after you’ve finished googling *“Did that really just happen?”* | © Boo Productions

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Cinema is a window into different cultures, perspectives, and storytelling traditions. While Hollywood dominates the global film industry, some of the most powerful, thought-provoking, and visually stunning movies come from outside the English-speaking world. The Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category (formerly Best Foreign Language Film) has spotlighted countless masterpieces over the years, introducing audiences to exceptional works from visionary directors across the globe.

In this list, we’ve curated 50 of the best foreign film nominees – movies that have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or just beginning to explore international cinema, these films promise unforgettable stories, breathtaking cinematography, and cultural richness that transcend language barriers.