Top Foreign Language Films and TV Shows You Must Watch

English-speaking audiences have long been captivated by films and TV shows that explore life in different countries. Series like *Emily in Paris* showcase the adventures of a character navigating a vibrant new culture, often encountering humorous challenges along the way. These stories not only entertain but also offer a glimpse into diverse lifestyles and traditions.

Movies like *Mamma Mia!* offer stunning backdrops that whisk us away to exotic and idyllic locations for a delightful two-hour escape. Regardless of the genre or storyline, the allure of immersing ourselves in new and captivating settings through film is simply irresistible.

Some experiences take entertainment to the next level. Watching films and TV shows in their original language immerses English-speaking audiences in a vibrant world of thrilling action, touching romance, and hilarious comedy. As Bong Joon Ho, the director of “Parasite,” wisely noted, “Once you overcome the one-inch barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films.” We wholeheartedly agree!

We’ve explored the world of foreign language films and TV shows, utilizing IMDB data to uncover the most-watched and highest-rated options. Whether you’re studying a new language or simply seeking captivating content to enhance your viewing list, these recommendations are must-sees that you won’t want to overlook.

The most popular foreign language films

Numerous outstanding films have been created in languages other than English, showcasing the diversity of global cinema. Notably, two of the three most popular films during the 2001-2011 period are in French, highlighting the richness and appeal of French-language storytelling.

One of the standout films on our list is “Parasite,” which took the cinematic world by storm upon its release in 2019. This groundbreaking film not only captivated audiences but also garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture. Remarkably, it made history as the first non-English language film to achieve this honor.

This success paves the way for a wave of foreign language films to enter the mainstream. After enjoying these three top picks, be sure to watch for exciting new releases that are sure to captivate!

Les Intouchables has quickly become a French favorite

The standout foreign language film, *Les Intouchables*—translated to *The Untouchables*—is a French comedy-drama that has captured audiences worldwide. The story centers on a wealthy paraplegic aristocrat who unexpectedly hires an ex-convict as his caregiver, leading to a touching and humorous exploration of their unlikely friendship.

The film has recently been remade in English as “The Upside,” featuring stars like Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston, and Nicole Kidman. However, for a truly authentic experience, we highly recommend watching the original French version.

City of God is one of the best representations of Brazilian ‘favelas’

The gripping narrative of *City of God* (or *Cidade de Deus* in Portuguese) draws inspiration from actual events, enhancing its emotional impact. This powerful Brazilian film chronicles the rise of organized crime in the Cidade de Deus neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, offering a vivid portrayal of life in a community shaped by violence and desperation.

“City of God” is shot in the real-life favela where the story unfolds, offering a raw glimpse into life in Brazilian slums. Many of the actors are local children, bringing a genuine authenticity to the film that is truly unparalleled. This commitment to realism is why it ranks among the best.

Amélie is the third most popular foreign language film

Since its release two decades ago, the French film *Amélie* has captivated audiences and earned its place as a beloved cult classic. This enchanting romantic comedy tells the story of Amélie, a timid waitress who embarks on a mission to secretly enhance the lives of those around her, weaving a tapestry of kindness and whimsy throughout her Parisian neighborhood.

The film marked the beginning of Audrey Tautou’s illustrious acting career and has since inspired filmmakers globally. Its straightforward narrative and delightful charm make it a popular choice in French language classes around the world. If you’re looking to explore the French language, this film is an ideal starting point!

Online lessons

Learn a language with personalised 1-on-1 classes with our expert tutors from all over the world

Here’s a perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge: be sure to read our 8 Key Advantages of E-Learning in the Workplace article.

English lessons online
French lessons online
Spanish lessons online

The most popular foreign language tv shows

If you’re short on time for a full movie, don’t worry—there’s a treasure trove of outstanding foreign-language TV shows waiting for you! From gripping Swedish crime dramas like *Quicksand* to captivating Danish sci-fi series such as *The Rain*, the last few years have offered some of the most compelling television in languages other than English. Dive in and discover a whole new world of storytelling!

Don’t rule out this incredible entertainment just because you don’t speak the language! 

Money Heist is the most popular TV show in a foreign language

Since its debut on Netflix in 2017, “Money Heist” has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, concluding its thrilling journey with the final season in December 2021, totaling five action-packed seasons. This Spanish series delivers a gripping narrative about a band of robbers executing audacious heists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating each twist and turn.

A simple Google search reveals that countless viewers have hailed it as “the best show I’ve ever seen.” If that glowing endorsement doesn’t motivate you to check it out, we’re not sure what will!

Dark is a German thriller bound to get you gripped

Looking for a gripping science fiction thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than *Dark*. This captivating series delves into the residents of Winden, a fictional German town, as they uncover deep-rooted secrets spanning multiple generations. Prepare for a thrilling journey filled with mystery and intrigue!

Get ready for a thrilling ride filled with time travel, secret identities, and mysterious backstories—there’s truly something for everyone! All three seasons are now available for binge-watching on Netflix, so you can dive in whenever you’re ready. Enjoy the adventure!*

*If you watch enough of the show, you won’t even have to Google Translate what that means.

Squid Game has made a quick rise to the top

If you haven’t heard of the sensational show *Squid Game*, you might be missing out! This gripping Korean thriller made waves worldwide upon its release in 2021, becoming the first Korean drama to claim the top spot on Netflix’s global most-watched weekly charts. In just 17 days, it captivated audiences and garnered an astonishing 111 million household views.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, pause what you’re doing right now and prepare to dedicate eight hours and five minutes of your time to something truly captivating!

The most popular foreign languages to watch in

Explore our curated list of the most popular foreign language TV shows and films, featuring an exciting range of languages including Danish, Dutch, Persian, and Portuguese. But which languages resonate most with English speakers, aside from English itself? We analyzed our ‘most popular’ rankings to identify the top three languages that captivate audiences.

If you’re using LingualNeeds to learn any of these languages, you’ll find plenty of popular content to practice your skills. And don’t worry—subtitles are perfectly acceptable!

French media is very popular among English speakers

Much like our friend Emily, France captivates our imaginations as a dream destination. From the lively atmosphere of the Champs-Élysées to the idyllic villages along the Riviera, we’d gladly hop on a plane today. Yet, it’s not just the stunning landscapes that draw us in—French films and TV shows have also become beloved favorites among English-speaking audiences.

French cinema and television hold a significant place in global entertainment, with nearly 18% of the top foreign films and shows hailing from France. Out of a total of 299 entries on our list, 52 are French productions. Notably, the most popular foreign film, “Les Intouchables,” proudly represents this vibrant industry.

English speakers think Spanish films and TV are “muy bien”

Spanish films and TV shows are rapidly gaining popularity, closely trailing behind France. In fact, 51 of the top-rated titles on IMDb are in Spanish, featuring notable works like the captivating dark fantasy film *Pan’s Labyrinth* and the hit Netflix teen drama *Elite*.

Spanish is the most widely spoken non-English language in the United States, with 13% of the population using it at home. As English speakers increasingly embrace Spanish-language films and TV shows, this percentage could rise even further, reflecting the growing influence of Spanish in American culture.

Japanese films and TV are well loved by English speakers

Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation film studio, has earned acclaim for its stunning visuals and compelling storytelling. This artistic mastery has contributed to Japanese becoming the third most popular language for viewing films and television shows worldwide.

Our collection features 36 Japanese films, representing 12% of the most popular titles. Leading the pack is the beloved classic *Spirited Away*, which ranks as the fourth most popular foreign-language film of all time. If you haven’t experienced this masterpiece yet, be sure to add it to your must-watch list!

Learn online

Learn a language online with our free learning materials.

Learn Spanish online
Learn English online
Learn French online

The benefits of watching foreign language films and TV

Engaging with media in the language you’re learning is a fantastic way to boost your comprehension and vocabulary. For instance, if you’re aiming to learn English, immersing yourself in shows like *Friends* or *The Crown* can help you grasp slang, speak more fluently, and enhance your listening abilities. It’s an enjoyable and effective method, making it a win-win for language learners!

Looking to enhance your language skills or eager to enjoy season two of Squid Game without the subtitles? Look no further! LingualNeeds offers a vast selection of language tutors ready to support you on your learning journey.

Methodology

To conduct this research, we compiled a list of popular films and TV shows from multiple sources. Each title was then cross-referenced on IMDb, where we gathered essential data including runtime, languages, country of origin, IMDb rating, and the number of votes. To determine the most popular film or show, we calculated a ‘total score’ by multiplying the average IMDb rating by the number of votes, providing a comprehensive measure of viewer appreciation for each title.