-
Learning French: when and why do we say faire contre mauvaise fortune bon cœur?
An optimistic proverb to make the best of a bad situation
-
Learning French: the origins and meaning of être Gros-Jean comme devant
The expression comes from France’s most studied and well-known fabulist
-
Learning French: when and why do we say avoir un œil de lynx
This phrase finds its origins in the legend of Jason and the Argonauts
Six French films to watch this month
Watching a film in French or with subtitles is one of the simplest ways to improve your language skills
With a new month upon us, here are six French films to watch to improve your language skills.
In this list you will find some new releases, as well as older films that have recently become available on streaming platforms.
Athena
Available on Netflix, Athena tells the story of a Paris suburb that goes to war with the national police following an incident where a young boy is killed by police brutality.
The victim’s older brother is at the heart of the story, with the name Athena likely a nod to the Greek goddess Athena, who protects numerous ancient Greek cities, including Athens.
This film can be streamed on Netflix.
Read also: Films to watch with children and improve your French
Jeanne du Barry
Shown at the Cannes film festival, Jeanne du Barry is currently in cinemas in France.
It focuses on a young woman - Jeanne du Barry - from a modest background who hopes to rise through the social ranks by using her charm.
She falls in love with Louis XV - played by Johnny Depp - and her arrival at Versailles causes a scandal.
AKA
This film has quickly become the most watched French film on Netflix despite only having been released in 2023.
It follows a secret agent who infiltrates a mafia organisation in an attempt to stop a terrorist attack in Paris.
However, his morals are put to the test when he bonds with the mafia boss’s son.
Read also: Six classic French films to improve your language skills
Notre tout petit petit mariage
Released at French cinemas in April 2023, Notre tout petit petit mariage is a comedy surrounding a couple who hope to have a very small wedding, only to discover a huge celebration has been planned for them as a surprise.
Pere Fils Therapie!
Another undercover cop film, but make it a comedy.
Père Fils Thérapie! unsurprisingly follows a father and son who are both undercover cops working to find one of their colleagues who has been taken by a notorious gangster.
Despite the pair having their problems, the film explores how they put them to one side in order to get on with the mission at hand.
Mon légionnaire
This 2021 release stars breakout actor Camille Cottin, whose leading role in Dix Pour Cent has been widely praised.
It revolves around the difficulties of war for families and couples as they are torn apart as they struggle to keep their love alive.
Related articles
Games to help improve your French language skills
Watch: the UK and US celebrities that speak excellent French