The 50 Best Foreign Film Nominees You Need to Watch – Part 2

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Ignacio Weil

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

Cropped About2 — 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 2, covering spots 25 to 1—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 1, don’t worry, you can check them out here!

Cropped Roma — 25. Roma (2018)

Some movies entertain. Others transport. *Roma* does both while also making you feel like you just lived an entire lifetime in 135 minutes. Alfonso Cuarón’s deeply personal, semi-autobiographical masterpiece follows Cleo, a quiet yet resilient domestic worker in 1970s Mexico City, as she navigates love, loss, and societal upheaval—all while caring for a family that both depends on her and, in some ways, takes her for granted. The film’s stunning black-and-white cinematography makes even the simplest moments feel epic, while its long, immersive takes pull you into Cleo’s world so intimately that by the time the credits roll, you’ll feel like you’ve known her forever. It’s cinema at its purest—no flashy tricks, just raw, breathtaking storytelling. | © Esperanto Filmoj

Cropped Umbrellas Of Cherbourg — 24. The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)

Ever wished life was a musical? Well, in *The Umbrellas of Cherbourg*, it is—but don’t expect jazz hands and happy endings. Jacques Demy’s visually stunning, pastel-drenched romance is entirely sung from start to finish, making even the most mundane conversations feel like grand operatic moments. The story? A simple but devastating one: young lovers torn apart by war, time, and fate, proving that love doesn’t always get the fairy-tale treatment. Catherine Deneuve is heartbreakingly radiant, the music (composed by Michel Legrand) is unforgettable, and the color palette alone could cure seasonal depression. This is a film that will break your heart, but at least it’ll do it beautifully. | © Parc Films

Cropped Shoplifters — 23. Shoplifters (2018)

What makes a family? Blood? Love? A shared willingness to commit petty theft together? *Shoplifters*, Hirokazu Kore-eda’s deeply moving drama, explores these questions through a ragtag group of outsiders who form their own version of a family—one built on survival, care, and, yes, the occasional five-finger discount. As the film unfolds, we see the tenderness in their relationships, the struggles they face, and the quiet sacrifices they make for one another. But just when you think you’ve figured out their dynamic, Kore-eda flips the script, leaving you questioning everything. Subtle, emotional, and deeply human, *Shoplifters* is the kind of film that sneaks up on you and steals your heart before you even realize it. | © GAGA Corporation

Cropped Amores Perros — 22. Amores Perros (2000)

If you thought *Pulp Fiction* had a monopoly on intertwined, gritty crime stories, *Amores Perros* is here to set the record straight—by throwing you headfirst into the chaos of Mexico City. Alejandro González Iñárritu’s breakout film tells three overlapping stories, all connected by a single car crash, with themes of love, betrayal, and survival bleeding into each narrative (sometimes literally). It’s intense, it’s visceral, and it does *not* pull punches—especially when it comes to its unflinching portrayal of Mexico’s underground dog-fighting scene. But beneath all the blood and grime lies a haunting meditation on fate and the way our lives intersect, often in ways we never see coming. | © Zeta Film

Cropped Better Days — 21. Better Days (2019)

High school can be brutal, but in *Better Days*, it’s *really* brutal. Part coming-of-age drama, part thriller, this Chinese film follows Chen Nian, a bullied high school student whose life takes a dangerous turn when she crosses paths with a small-time street thug. What starts as an unlikely friendship quickly evolves into something deeper, set against the backdrop of China’s ultra-competitive college entrance exams. The film tackles themes of systemic pressure, social inequality, and the lengths people will go to protect the ones they love. It’s gripping, emotional, and anchored by a powerhouse performance from Zhou Dongyu. By the time it’s over, you’ll feel like you’ve been put through the emotional wringer—in the best way possible. | © We Pictures

Cropped The Hunt — 20. The Hunt (2012)

Ever had a rumor spread about you that was so bad, so wildly untrue, that it made your life completely unravel? That’s the nightmare at the heart of *The Hunt*. Mads Mikkelsen delivers a gut-wrenching performance as a kindergarten teacher falsely accused of something unspeakable. As paranoia spreads through his small Danish town, friends turn to enemies, justice turns into a witch hunt, and you’re left gripping your seat, shouting, *“For the love of all things holy, someone just listen to him!”* Thomas Vinterberg directs this psychological thriller with icy precision, making every glance, whisper, and accusation feel like a dagger to the soul. By the end, you’ll need a deep breath—and maybe a stiff drink. | © Zentropa

Cropped The Great Beauty — 19. The Great Beauty (2013)

Imagine *La Dolce Vita* got older, wiser, and a little more existential. That’s *The Great Beauty*, Paolo Sorrentino’s stunning love letter (and maybe a breakup letter) to Rome, art, and the endless pursuit of meaning. We follow Jep Gambardella, a once-great writer who now drifts through the city’s lavish parties and high-society nonsense, wondering if he’s wasted his life. The film is pure visual poetry—every frame so rich and gorgeous that you could hang it in a gallery. But beneath the glamour and extravagance lies something deeply melancholic, a meditation on time, beauty, and regret. If you love films that feel like a dream—and maybe a bit of an existential crisis—this one’s for you. | © Indigo Film

Cropped Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown — 18. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988)

Few directors can turn absolute chaos into a work of art quite like Pedro Almodóvar. *Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown* is a whirlwind of screwball energy, neon colors, and gloriously over-the-top emotions. It follows Pepa, an actress who finds herself abandoned by her lover, entangled in a web of ex-wives, new girlfriends, and a gazpacho laced with sleeping pills. Every frame bursts with life, every line of dialogue feels both absurd and profound, and the whole thing moves at such a manic pace that you barely have time to catch your breath. If you’ve ever felt like your love life was a telenovela, Almodóvar is here to let you know—you’re not alone. | © El Deseo

Cropped Another Round — 17. Another Round (2020)

What if life’s problems could be solved by *just* the right amount of alcohol? That’s the experiment at the heart of *Another Round*, where four middle-aged teachers decide to maintain a constant buzz to see if it makes them better at their jobs, their relationships, and, well, life in general. At first, things are great—confidence soars, lessons become livelier, and friendships feel more alive than ever. But, as you might expect, this social experiment eventually takes a turn. Mads Mikkelsen (yes, him again!) gives one of his best performances, and the film’s final scene? Absolutely legendary. It’s a tragicomic masterpiece that reminds us of both the joys and the dangers of losing control. | © Zentropa

Cropped All About My Mother — 16. All About My Mother (1999)

If you’re looking for a film that will make you laugh, cry, and suddenly appreciate your mom a whole lot more, *All About My Mother* is the one. Pedro Almodóvar crafts a beautifully messy, deeply human story about grief, resilience, and found family. When a woman tragically loses her son, she embarks on a journey to reconnect with his past, encountering a world of vibrant, unforgettable characters—including a nun played by Penélope Cruz, a transgender woman, and a fading actress in need of a friend. It’s melodramatic, but in the best way possible—full of heart, color, and the kind of emotional depth that lingers long after the credits roll. | © El Deseo

Cropped Im Still Here — 15. I'm Still Here (2024)

Imagine living a peaceful life, only to have it shattered by political turmoil. *I'm Still Here* tells the poignant true story of Eunice Paiva, portrayed by Fernanda Torres, whose husband, dissident politician Rubens Paiva, is forcibly disappeared during Brazil's military dictatorship in the 1970s. Directed by Walter Salles, the film delves into Eunice's resilience as she navigates the oppressive regime, seeking justice and holding her family together amidst fear and uncertainty. The narrative captures the personal impact of political repression, highlighting the strength of a woman confronting unimaginable adversity. The film has resonated deeply with audiences, becoming a significant cultural piece in Brazil and sparking nationwide discussions on the dictatorship's trauma. | © Sony Pictures Releasing International

Cropped All Quiet on the Western Front — 14. All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

War is often glorified, but *All Quiet on the Western Front* strips away the romanticism to reveal its brutal reality. This German adaptation, directed by Edward Berger, follows young soldier Paul Bäumer, played by Felix Kammerer, as he enlists in World War I with dreams of heroism, only to confront the harrowing truths of combat. The film's unflinching portrayal of trench warfare and its devastating effects on soldiers' psyches offers a powerful anti-war message. Praised for its artistry and relevance, the film received multiple accolades, including four Academy Awards, solidifying its place as a modern cinematic masterpiece. | © Netflix

Cropped Society of the Snow — 13. Society of the Snow (2023)

Survival stories often tread familiar ground, but *Society of the Snow* takes it to chilling new heights—literally. Directed by J.A. Bayona, this film recounts the true story of the 1972 Andes plane crash that left a Uruguayan rugby team stranded in a frozen wilderness. Facing insurmountable odds, the survivors resort to unimaginable measures to stay alive. It's a tale of human endurance, desperation, and the will to survive when all hope seems lost. Beautifully shot and emotionally gripping, it's a stark reminder of the thin line between civilization and survival. | © El Arriero Films

Cropped Drive My Car — 12. Drive My Car (2021)

Buckle up for a journey that's more about the detours than the destination. In *Drive My Car*, director Ryusuke Hamaguchi weaves a poignant tale of grief, art, and unexpected connections. Following a theater director grappling with the loss of his wife, the film explores the relationships he forms while staging a multilingual production of *Uncle Vanya*. It's a slow burn, but like a scenic drive, the beauty lies in the moments between point A and point B. By the end, you'll find yourself reflecting on the stories we tell, the roles we play, and the healing power of human connection. | © C&I Entertainment

Cropped 8½ — 11. 8½ (1963)

Ever feel like you're juggling too many ideas, memories, and existential crises at once? Welcome to 8½, Federico Fellini's semi-autobiographical masterpiece that dives into the chaotic mind of a film director suffering from creative block. It's a surreal blend of reality, fantasy, and flashbacks, all swirling around in a cinematic dance that's as mesmerizing as it is confounding. Marcello Mastroianni shines as the beleaguered director, guiding us through a labyrinth of his own making. It's a film about making films, a dream about dreaming, and by the end, you might just find yourself questioning the nature of art and inspiration. | © Cineriz

Cropped Close — 10. Close (2022)

Remember those childhood friendships that felt like they'd last forever? *Close* takes that innocent bond and explores how the world can complicate it. Directed by Lukas Dhont, this Belgian drama follows 13-year-olds Léo and Rémi, whose inseparable friendship faces unexpected challenges when their closeness draws attention at school. As whispers and glances turn into probing questions, the boys grapple with identity, societal expectations, and the fragility of adolescent bonds. It's a tender, heart-wrenching narrative that captures the bittersweet transition from childhood to adolescence, reminding us how external perceptions can impact our most intimate relationships. | © Menuet Producties

Cropped Incendies — 9. Incendies (2010)

Family secrets are like onions: peel back one layer, and you're likely to find another that makes you cry even more. In *Incendies*, director Denis Villeneuve crafts a gripping tale that begins with twins Jeanne and Simon, who, after their mother's death, are handed two mysterious envelopes—one for a father they thought was dead and another for a brother they never knew existed. Their journey to the Middle East to uncover their family's hidden past unravels a harrowing story of love, war, and resilience. It's a powerful narrative that intertwines personal and political histories, leaving viewers questioning the boundaries of identity and the enduring impact of generational trauma. | © micro_scope

Cropped Central Station — 8. Central Station (1998)

Ever met someone who changes your life in the most unexpected way? *Central Station* introduces us to Dora, a jaded former schoolteacher eking out a living by writing letters for illiterate individuals at Rio de Janeiro's bustling train station. When one of her clients tragically dies, Dora reluctantly takes responsibility for the woman's young son, Josué, embarking on a journey across Brazil to find his estranged father. What starts as a begrudging obligation transforms into a touching exploration of human connection, redemption, and the unexpected bonds that can form between strangers. It's a road movie that navigates the landscapes of both Brazil and the human heart, proving that sometimes, the detours lead us to where we truly belong. | © Videofilmes

Cropped Life is Beautiful — 7. Life Is Beautiful (1997)

Combining comedy and the Holocaust might sound like an impossible feat, but Roberto Benigni's *Life Is Beautiful* manages to do just that with grace and poignancy. The film tells the story of Guido, a charming and whimsical Jewish-Italian waiter who uses his imagination and humor to shield his young son from the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp. By turning their grim reality into an elaborate game, Guido strives to protect his son's innocence amidst unimaginable adversity. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths a parent will go to preserve their child's happiness. Equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, this film is a reminder of the power of love and laughter even in the darkest of times. | © Cecchi Gori Group

Cropped Perfect Days — 6. Perfect Days (2023)

Ever wondered what it's like to find beauty in the mundane? Wim Wenders' *Perfect Days* offers a serene glimpse into the life of Hirayama, a Tokyo toilet cleaner who finds contentment in his daily routines. As he moves between jobs, accompanied by a rock music soundtrack, the film delves into themes of simplicity, solitude, and the quiet joys of everyday life. It's a meditative piece that invites viewers to slow down and appreciate the small moments that often go unnoticed. With its minimalist narrative and contemplative pace, *Perfect Days* serves as a gentle reminder that happiness can be found in the most unexpected places. | © NEON

Cropped Pans Labyrinth — 5. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)

What do you get when you mix fairy tales, the brutality of war, and one of the most nightmarish creatures in cinema history? *Pan’s Labyrinth*, Guillermo del Toro’s dark fantasy masterpiece, where childhood imagination collides with the horrors of reality. Set in post-Civil War Spain, the film follows Ofelia, a young girl who stumbles upon a mystical labyrinth and meets the enigmatic Faun, who offers her a chance to prove herself as the reincarnation of a lost princess. But let’s be real—the Pale Man (you know, the eyeless monster with hands for eyes) is the one who will haunt your dreams forever. Gorgeously shot, emotionally devastating, and filled with creatures that would make Jim Henson’s Muppets run for cover, this film is what happens when fairy tales grow up. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped The Worst Person in the World — 4. The Worst Person in the World (2021)

Ever felt like your life is an indie film, complete with existential crises, messy relationships, and impulsive life choices? Well, meet Julie, the protagonist of *The Worst Person in the World*, Joachim Trier’s refreshingly raw and witty exploration of millennial uncertainty. Julie is navigating love, career, and self-identity, often making terrible (but relatable) decisions along the way. The film plays out like a series of life’s greatest hits—some moments are funny, others heartbreaking, and some downright surreal (yes, there’s a sequence where time literally freezes). Renate Reinsve delivers a knockout performance, making Julie feel like someone you’ve known—or *been*—at some point in your life. It’s a film about growing up, but not necessarily growing wiser. | © Oslo Pictures

Cropped Cinema Paradiso — 3. Cinema Paradiso (1988)

If you’ve ever fallen in love with movies, *Cinema Paradiso* will feel like a warm hug from the past. This Italian classic follows Salvatore, a young boy in a post-war Sicilian village who forms a life-changing friendship with Alfredo, the local projectionist. Together, they bond over the magic of cinema, as the town’s tiny movie theater becomes the heart of the community. Nostalgia oozes from every frame, making this film a love letter to storytelling, film itself, and the people who pass their passions down to the next generation. And let’s not even talk about the ending—if your eyes aren’t at least a *little* misty, you might just be a robot. | © Cristaldi Film

Cropped Amélie — 2. Amélie (2001)

Quirky, whimsical, and soaked in the warm glow of Montmartre, *Amélie* is the ultimate feel-good film for anyone who’s ever felt a little out of step with the world. Audrey Tautou charms as the titular Amélie, a shy yet mischievous Parisian waitress who decides to anonymously improve the lives of those around her. From her elaborate schemes to bring joy to strangers to her own hesitant romance, every frame of this film bursts with imagination and charm. Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet fills the world with eccentric characters, rich colors, and the kind of magic that makes you want to book a one-way ticket to Paris immediately. If you’re in need of cinematic serotonin, *Amélie* is pure, unfiltered joy. | © UGC Fox Distribution

Cropped Parasite — 1. Parasite (2019)

The phrase *"eat the rich"* has never been so stylishly executed as in *Parasite*, Bong Joon-ho’s genre-defying, twist-filled masterpiece. What starts as a dark comedy about a poor family scamming their way into working for a wealthy household quickly spirals into something far more thrilling, eerie, and socially biting. Every frame is meticulously crafted, every plot twist lands like a punch to the gut, and the less you know going in, the better. *Parasite* made history as the first non-English film to win Best Picture at the Oscars, proving that class struggle is a universal story—and that no basement should ever be taken for granted. | © CJ Entertainment

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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.