From its birth in 1895, cinema has been an essential part of French culture. Now it is one of the most dynamic, versatile and important of the arts in France.

The greatest French film directors

From Jean Renoir to François Truffaut, French cinema has no shortage of truly great filmmakers, each bringing a unique approach to the art of filmmaking.

The very best period film dramas

Is there any period of history that has not been vividly brought back to life by cinema? Historical movies offer the ultimate in escapism.

The best French films of 2019

Our round-up of the best French films released in 2019.

The very best French thrillers

It was American film noir and pulp fiction that kick-started the craze for thrillers in 1950s France and made it one of the most popular and enduring genres.

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Other things to look at

Biography of Anne Fontaine

Biography of Charles Denner

Review of Le Professionnel

Review of Baisers voles

Review of Alyah