(Image viaMovies have a magical way of connecting people across the globe. They can make us laugh, cry, or think about the world in new ways. While Hollywood often takes center stage in the film industry, some of the best stories come from outside the United States. Foreign films open our eyes to different cultures, histories, and ways of storytelling. Over the past decade, filmmakers from all over the world have created unforgettable movies that resonate universally, regardless of language.
From heartfelt dramas to genre-defying thrillers, foreign films have proven themselves as powerful and compelling as any blockbuster. These films have also gained more recognition, especially with streaming services and award shows celebrating their impact. If you’re curious about the films that have made waves internationally, here’s a look at some of the best foreign films of the last 10 years.
"Parasite" (2019) - South Korea
You can’t talk about the best foreign films without mentioning "Parasite" by Bong Joon-ho. This South Korean sensation made history at the 2020 Oscars, becoming the first non-English-language film to win Best Picture. It’s a biting commentary on class, inequality, and society, wrapped in a darkly comedic thriller.
Why “Parasite” Stands Out
"Parasite" is like watching two movies in one. It starts as a lighthearted tale of a poor family scamming their way into the lives of a wealthy household. But just when you think you understand what’s happening, the film flips into something deeper, darker, and completely unexpected. Its seamless blend of genres, sharp social commentary, and gripping twists make it a masterpiece that stays with you long after the credits roll.
"Roma" (2018) - Mexico
Alfonso Cuarón’s "Roma" is a love letter to his childhood in 1970s Mexico City. The semi-autobiographical film follows Cleo, a live-in maid for a middle-class family, as she navigates personal struggles and an evolving social landscape.
A Visual and Emotional Feat
Shot in striking black-and-white, "Roma" is a visual work of art. Every scene feels like a photograph, filled with vivid details and raw emotion. But it’s not just about stunning cinematography; it’s about human connection. Cleo’s quiet strength draws you in, and her story is both intimate and universal.
"Portrait of a Lady on Fire" (2019) - France
French director Céline Sciamma crafts a delicate, moving romance in "Portrait of a Lady on Fire". The film tells the story of Marianne, a painter, and Héloïse, her subject, as they fall in love amid the isolating beauty of 18th-century Brittany.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This is a film where every glance, word, and silence carries meaning. Sciamma captures the subtleties of desire and heartbreak, creating an atmosphere drenched in emotion. The imagery is stunning, with painterly frames and vibrant colors that leave a lasting impression. Plus, the lack of a traditional score makes the film’s few moments of music hit even harder.
"Shoplifters" (2018) - Japan
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s "Shoplifters" is a poignant look at family and morality. The film follows a group of outsiders who form a makeshift family, surviving on shoplifting and odd jobs in the fringes of Tokyo. Despite their questionable methods, their bond feels deeply genuine.
The Heart of the Film
"Shoplifters" explores what it really means to be a family. It challenges traditional ideas of love and belonging, proving that family isn’t always about blood. With tender performances and a bittersweet ending, this Japanese drama is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
"Drive My Car" (2021) - Japan
Based on a short story by Haruki Murakami, "Drive My Car" is a meditative exploration of love, loss, and human connection. Ryusuke Hamaguchi directs this touching drama, which follows a theater actor grappling with grief as he forms an unlikely friendship with his chauffeur.
What Makes It Unique
"Drive My Car" takes its time, unfolding slowly while giving you space to reflect. It’s about deep conversations, quiet moments, and learning to move forward after tragedy. The layered storytelling and beautiful performances make it more than just a film; it’s an experience.
"Another Round" (2020) - Denmark
Directed by Thomas Vinterberg, "Another Round" is a Danish dramedy that asks a strange but compelling question. What happens if you maintain a constant low level of alcohol in your bloodstream? The film follows four middle-aged teachers who experiment with this idea, hoping it will bring excitement back to their lives.
The Perfect Blend of Fun and Depth
"Another Round" is both hilarious and heartbreaking. While it starts off as a lighthearted exploration of drinking culture, it quickly becomes a touching look at midlife crises, friendship, and self-discovery. Mads Mikkelsen’s standout performance makes it even better, especially in one unforgettable final scene.
"The Handmaiden" (2016) - South Korea
Park Chan-wook’s "The Handmaiden" is a seductive thriller filled with twists and turns. Set in Japanese-occupied Korea, the film tells the story of a con artist posing as a servant to steal a wealthy woman’s fortune. But as their relationship becomes more personal, everything spirals into unexpected territory.
Why It’s a Visual Marvel
Park’s direction is meticulous, with every frame packed with stunning colors, lush costumes, and intricate details. The story is both gripping and sensual, blending romance, suspense, and betrayal in a way that keeps you guessing until the very end.
"Cold War" (2018) - Poland
Paweł Pawlikowski’s "Cold War" is a sweeping romance set against the backdrop of post-war Europe. It follows the tempestuous relationship between Zula, a singer, and Wiktor, a musician, as their love endures wartime separation, political turmoil, and personal struggles.
Poetry on Screen
Shot in a stark black-and-white style, "Cold War" is both visually stunning and painfully bittersweet. It captures the complexities of love in turbulent times, using music and quiet moments to tell a powerful story.
"Minari" (2020) - South Korea/US
Though technically a Korean-American production, "Minari" feels like a foreign film in its heart and tone. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung, it’s the story of a Korean family trying to build a new life in rural America during the 1980s.
A Story of Resilience
"Minari" is all about the immigrant experience, blending moments of joy, hardship, and hope. With tender performances, especially from Youn Yuh-jung’s Oscar-winning role as the grandmother, it’s a film that tugs at your heartstrings in the best way.
