- The City of Lost Children (1995)
- The Ninth Gate (1999)
- The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)
- A Very Long Engagement (2004)
- The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec (2010)
- The Visitors (1993)
- The Pact of Silence (2003)
- The Princess of Montpensier (2010)
- The Crimson Rivers (2000)
- The Sorcerer's Apprentice (1977)
France has long been a land of romance, culture, and mystery, making it the perfect backdrop for tales of fantasy and magic. This curated selection of 10 fantasy films set in France offers viewers a chance to escape into worlds where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, where history intertwines with myth, and where the landscapes of France become characters in their own right. Whether you're a fan of whimsical fairy tales, dark gothic narratives, or epic adventures, these films provide a magical journey through the heart of France, showcasing its rich heritage and the boundless imagination of its storytellers.

The City of Lost Children (1995)
Description: This surreal fantasy film takes place in a dystopian French port city where a mad scientist kidnaps children to steal their dreams. It's a visual feast with a distinctly French flair, blending elements of steampunk and dark fantasy.
Fact: The film was co-directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, who are known for their unique visual style. It was also nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.


The Ninth Gate (1999)
Description: Set in modern-day France, this film follows a rare book dealer on a quest for a book that might contain the secret to summoning the Devil, blending mystery with supernatural elements.
Fact: Directed by Roman Polanski, the film features Johnny Depp in a rare role as a somewhat darker character.


The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)
Description: This epic film tells the story of Joan of Arc, incorporating visions and divine interventions, making it a blend of historical drama and fantasy.
Fact: Milla Jovovich, who played Joan, underwent rigorous physical training to portray the warrior saint.


A Very Long Engagement (2004)
Description: While not strictly fantasy, this film includes elements of magical realism and a fairy-tale-like narrative set during and after World War I in France. It's a story of love, hope, and the supernatural.
Fact: The film features stunning cinematography by Bruno Delbonnel, who later worked on "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."


The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec (2010)
Description: This film transports viewers to early 20th century Paris, where Adèle Blanc-Sec, a daring young woman, battles against supernatural forces to save her sister. It's a delightful mix of adventure, comedy, and fantasy.
Fact: Directed by Luc Besson, the film is inspired by the comic book series of the same name by Jacques Tardi.


The Visitors (1993)
Description: A comedy-fantasy where two medieval knights are transported to modern-day France. The culture clash and the magical elements make it a unique entry into the fantasy genre.
Fact: This film was a massive hit in France, spawning sequels and a remake in English titled "Just Visiting."


The Pact of Silence (2003)
Description: This film weaves a tale of mystery and magic, set in a French convent, where a young woman uncovers secrets that blend the supernatural with historical intrigue.
Fact: It stars Gérard Depardieu, who has appeared in numerous films with fantastical elements.


The Princess of Montpensier (2010)
Description: Set in 16th-century France, this film blends historical drama with elements of fantasy, focusing on the life of a young noblewoman caught in a web of love, politics, and magic.
Fact: The film was adapted from a short story by Madame de Lafayette, one of the earliest French novelists.


The Crimson Rivers (2000)
Description: While primarily a thriller, this film includes dark fantasy elements with its investigation into mysterious murders linked to ancient secrets and occult practices in the French Alps.
Fact: It was adapted into an English-language film titled "Crimson Rivers II: Angels of the Apocalypse."


The Sorcerer's Apprentice (1977)
Description: A whimsical adaptation of the classic tale, set in medieval France, where a sorcerer's apprentice's magical mishaps lead to comedic chaos.
Fact: This film was inspired by the segment in Disney's "Fantasia" but adds its own unique French twist.
