French Romance Films – A Collection

Description: This film captures the intense love story between two homeless people living on the Pont Neuf bridge in Paris. Its raw depiction of love amidst adversity and the iconic Parisian setting make it a fitting choice for this list.

Fact: The film was shot on a specially constructed set of the Pont Neuf bridge, which was built to scale. It took several years to complete due to financial difficulties.

Description: While not exclusively French, this film's setting in a small French village and its themes of love, acceptance, and culinary delights make it a delightful addition to this collection.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The village of Flavigny-sur-Ozerain was used for the exterior shots.

Description: Set during and after World War I, this film tells the story of Mathilde, who refuses to believe her fiancé is dead and embarks on a quest to find him. Its romantic narrative and historical setting make it a poignant addition to this collection.

Fact: The film won two César Awards, including Best Cinematography. It was also nominated for two Academy Awards.

Description: Although not entirely set in France, this film captures a romantic walk through Paris, continuing the love story from "Before Sunrise." Its real-time conversation and exploration of love make it a compelling addition.

Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days, with much of the dialogue improvised by the actors, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy.

Description: Woody Allen's love letter to Paris, this film follows a screenwriter who finds himself transported back to the 1920s, exploring themes of nostalgia and romance. Its romantic portrayal of Paris and its literary references make it a must-watch.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The scenes set in the 1920s were filmed in a studio in Paris.

Description: While primarily a comedy-drama, this film includes a touching romantic subplot set in Paris, highlighting the bond between a wealthy aristocrat and his caregiver from the projects. Its heartwarming story and Parisian setting make it a fitting end to this collection.

Fact: The film was a massive box office success in France and was nominated for several César Awards, winning in categories like Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay.

Description: A charming short film about a boy and his magical red balloon, which follows him through the streets of Paris. Its whimsical nature and the backdrop of Paris make it a unique romantic tale.

Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, making it one of the shortest films ever to win an Oscar.

Description: A visually stunning musical where every line of dialogue is sung, this film explores the bittersweet love story of Geneviève and Guy set against the backdrop of a French port town. Its unique style and romantic narrative are why it's included here.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film.

Description: This whimsical tale follows Amélie, a shy waitress in Paris, who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better while grappling with her own isolation. Its inclusion in this list is due to its romantic portrayal of Paris and its unique approach to love.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film. The director, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, used a mix of practical effects and CGI to create the film's distinctive visual style.

Description: This anthology film features 18 short films, each set in a different neighborhood of Paris, exploring various facets of love. Its diverse portrayal of romance in the city of love is why it's included.

Fact: The film was made by 22 directors from around the world, each contributing a segment.