If you’re looking to expand your film viewing beyond Hollywood blockbusters, then these 10 must-watch foreign films are sure to provide an enriching experience. From the multi-award-winning Korean film “Parasite,” to the charming French romantic comedy “Amélie,” to the intense Brazilian crime epic “City of God,” this list covers a wide range of genres and cultures. Other films on this list include the groundbreaking Japanese anime “Akira,” the gripping South Korean revenge thriller “Oldboy,” and the visually stunning Hong Kong romance “In the Mood for Love.” These films, along with others such as the Spanish fantasy “Pan’s Labyrinth” and the Iranian drama “A Separation,” offer powerful performances, thought-provoking themes, and breathtaking cinematography.

10 Must-Watch Foreign Films

Watching foreign films is a great way to broaden your horizons and enjoy cinema from different cultures. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-watch foreign films that you should add to your watchlist. From romantic comedies to intense dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list.

1. Parasite (Korea, 2019)

This multi-award-winning film directed by Bong Joon-ho took the world by storm on its release in 2019. A darkly comedic social thriller about a family of lovable scammers who infiltrate the lives of a wealthy family, Parasite is a masterful exploration of class and inequality.

2. Amélie (France, 2001)

This charming and quirky romantic comedy from director Jean-Pierre Jeunet stars Audrey Tautou as Amélie, a young woman who sets out to change the lives of those around her. With its whimsical visual style, clever writing, and heartwarming story, Amélie is an absolute delight to watch.

3. City of God (Brazil, 2002)

This thrilling crime epic from director Fernando Meirelles follows the lives of several young men growing up in a violent and impoverished neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. With its kinetic energy, stunning cinematography, and intense performances, City of God is a cinematic tour-de-force that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

4. Akira (Japan, 1988)

This anime classic directed by Katsuhiro Otomo is a groundbreaking and influential work of animation. Set in a dystopian future, Akira tells the story of a motorcycle gang member who gains powerful psychic abilities after being captured by the government. With its stunning animation and thrilling action sequences, Akira is a must-watch for any anime fan.

5. Oldboy (South Korea, 2003)

This disturbing and gripping revenge thriller from director Park Chan-wook tells the story of a man who is imprisoned for 15 years without knowing why, and his subsequent quest for revenge. With its shocking twist ending, visceral violence, and powerful performances, Oldboy is not for the faint of heart.

6. Y Tu Mamá También (Mexico, 2001)

This coming-of-age road trip movie from director Alfonso Cuarón follows two teenage boys who embark on a journey with an older woman. With its frank discussions of sexuality, powerful performances, and stunning cinematography, Y Tu Mamá También is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and mortality.

7. In the Mood for Love (Hong Kong, 2000)

This visually sumptuous romance from director Wong Kar-wai tells the story of two neighbors in 1960s Hong Kong who develop a close relationship after suspecting their spouses of infidelity. With its breathtaking cinematography, evocative score, and powerful performances, In the Mood for Love is a cinematic masterpiece.

8. Pan’s Labyrinth (Spain, 2006)

This dark fantasy film from director Guillermo del Toro tells the story of a young girl who retreats into a fantastical world in order to escape the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. With its stunning visuals, haunting score, and powerful themes, Pan’s Labyrinth is a visually striking and emotionally resonant film.

9. The Handmaiden (South Korea, 2016)

This erotic thriller from director Park Chan-wook tells the story of a pickpocket who is hired by a con man to seduce a wealthy heiress. With its stunning visuals, intricate plot, and powerful performances, The Handmaiden is a thrilling and provocative film that will keep you guessing until the very end.

10. A Separation (Iran, 2011)

This intense drama from director Asghar Farhadi explores the complex relationships between a family going through a divorce, their caretaker, and a desperate young father. With its powerful performances and nuanced exploration of morality, A Separation is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film.

These 10 foreign films are just a small sample of the incredible cinema being produced around the world. Watching foreign films can be a truly enriching experience, allowing you to explore different cultures and perspectives, and discovering hidden gems that you may have otherwise missed. So grab some popcorn, turn on the subtitles, and enjoy these must-watch foreign films.