Favorite Foreign Films of the 2000s

[jhiggy23]

I love foreign films. To me, they have a purity that is due to being unaffected by the Hollywood populist dogma, resulting in films that feel much more real and far less processed. I do not hate American films by any means, and really do not prefer one over the other, but I have a deep respect for many foreign films and directors. I decided to create this thread after buying Downfall on dvd today (no blu version in the US yet--will def. double dip), and was interested to see what foreign films people really like. Please list films and tell WHY you like them so much. Explanations are much more interesting for me to read than a simple listing.

In my opinion, the following four films are the best foriegn films of the past 10 years, and some of the best ever (no order):

1) The Lives of Others--I listed this in the top 5 movies of all time in that thread a month or so ago and it was listed high on many people's lists. It has been called (by famous critics): the best film of the past 25 years; the best and most unique character study of all time; and one of the most socially important pictures in years. I think that it was a flawless film with tremendous acting and writing. It is easily, imo, the best character study of all-time and an incredibly important movie.

2) Downfall--I also listed this in my top 10 movies of all time, and many members of this site have listed it among the top 3 war films of all time. I think that it is, without a doubt, the most realistic portrayal of Hitler ever seen on film. Bruno Ganz's performance ranks among the top 3 performances EVER imo, as well as many others on this site. It's funny--I watched Valkyrie two days after this film, which wasn't that bad of a movie; nothing special, but not bad. I could not take that film seriously after seeing many of the same characters in this film. The authenticity of this film is only matched by Schindler's List and Band of Brothers, in terms of war (the opening of Saving Private Ryan, too). Absolutely incredible.

3) City of God--I mention authenticity above, and here it is again. This was a brutal, often difficult film to watch. Fernando Meirelles is a visionary director and he crafted an amazing film. Hard to watch but hard to turn away.

4) Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon--beautiful in every semblance of the word. There is a reason why many critics consider it to be one of the best movies of all time. It is visually amazing but has deep thematic issues at play. The acting is top-notch, as are the fighting sequences.


There are many more foreign films that I love, but to me, these are the best of the past 10 years. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts, and I'm sure Pan's Labyrinth will be allll over this thread, but just so you know, The Lives of Others CLEARLY deserved to win the Oscar over it!

[Mahatma]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

I love foreign films. To me, they have a purity that is due to being unaffected by the Hollywood populist dogma, resulting in films that feel much more real and far less processed. I do not hate American films by any means, and really do not prefer one over the other, but I have a deep respect for many foreign films and directors. I decided to create this thread after buying Downfall on dvd today (no blu version in the US yet--will def. double dip), and was interested to see what foreign films people really like. Please list films and tell WHY you like them so much. Explanations are much more interesting for me to read than a simple listing.

In my opinion, the following four films are the best foriegn films of the past 10 years, and some of the best ever (no order):

1) The Lives of Others--I listed this in the top 5 movies of all time in that thread a month or so ago and it was listed high on many people's lists. It has been called (by famous critics): the best film of the past 25 years; the best and most unique character study of all time; and one of the most socially important pictures in years. I think that it was a flawless film with tremendous acting and writing. It is easily, imo, the best character study of all-time and an incredibly important movie.

2) Downfall--I also listed this in my top 10 movies of all time, and many members of this site have listed it among the top 3 war films of all time. I think that it is, without a doubt, the most realistic portrayal of Hitler ever seen on film. Bruno Ganz's performance ranks among the top 3 performances EVER imo, as well as many others on this site. It's funny--I watched Valkyrie two days after this film, which wasn't that bad of a movie; nothing special, but not bad. I could not take that film seriously after seeing many of the same characters in this film. The authenticity of this film is only matched by Schindler's List and Band of Brothers, in terms of war (the opening of Saving Private Ryan, too). Absolutely incredible.

3) City of God--I mention authenticity above, and here it is again. This was a brutal, often difficult film to watch. Fernando Meirelles is a visionary director and he crafted an amazing film. Hard to watch but hard to turn away.

4) Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon--beautiful in every semblance of the word. There is a reason why many critics consider it to be one of the best movies of all time. It is visually amazing but has deep thematic issues at play. The acting is top-notch, as are the fighting sequences.


There are many more foreign films that I love, but to me, these are the best of the past 10 years. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts, and I'm sure Pan's Labyrinth will be allll over this thread, but just so you know, The Lives of Others CLEARLY deserved to win the Oscar over it!

I liked 'Der untergang'.Have there been anytime in history where that number of lunatics has been in the same room as in that movie?

How about 'The class' from France? Takes up a difficult theme unflinching.

Just saw 'Pans labyrinth'.It was good,but don't understand why people think it a modern classic....Going to watch it again just to see if I have missed something.

[Idioteque...]

I never got the speciality of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. I was bored for the most part and the martial arts scene I thought sucked. I hated the flying effect but then again, Ang Lee has never entertained.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Mahatma

I liked 'Der untergang'.Have there been anytime in history where that number of lunatics has been in the same room as in that movie?

How about 'The class' from France? Takes up a difficult theme unflinching.

Just saw 'Pans labyrinth'.It was good,but don't understand why people think it a modern classic....Going to watch it again just to see if I have missed something.

haha I def. agree about the first point. All those sadistic individuals in one bunker was unnerving. I have never heard of The Class? I will add it to my netflix queue, thank you for mentioning it. I was not a fan of Pan's but I only saw it once. I have agreed to other members to watch it again.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Idioteque...

I never got the speciality of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. I was bored for the most part and the martial arts scene I thought sucked. I hated the flying effect but then again, Ang Lee has never entertained.

Fair enough, I agree that it is definitely not for everybody and I can respect those who did not like it. What foreign films of the past 10 years, if any, have you really enjoyed?

[Idioteque...]

Kung Fu Hustle is the most notable one because I bought that one. It's hard, because I have to be in the mood to watch foriegn films and it's really hard to be captivated by one. Don't get me wrong I've seen some but none have really captured my attention. Though I have L'Efant on que.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Idioteque...

Kung Fu Hustle is the most notable one because I bought that one. It's hard, because I have to be in the mood to watch foriegn films and it's really hard to be captivated by one. Don't get me wrong I've seen some but none have really captured my attention. Though I have L'Efant on que.

Such is the subjectivity of film. You did not like Crouching but you liked Kung Fu Hustle. I loved Crouching but hated Kung Fu Hustle.

I definitely disagree about what is in bold though, the way you phrased it. I think what you mean is that you personally have to be in the mood to watch a foreign film and you personally find it really hard to be captivated by it. I think that most people would actually disagree with you and state that many foreign films are actually MORE captivating. I does require a certain amount of patience to watch a film in a language you don't speak, however (watching dubbed is a travesty).

To round out my top 5, I would probably add in The Orphanage, which I find to be one of the best modern horror films.

[Moefiz]

I have to agree with you in Downfall, absolutely one of the best movie about Hitler ever portrayed.

I'll add Martyrs to the list, a movie that is every bit nerve wrecking to sit thru and just when you think its your typical horror movie and you know how this is going to turn out it takes a different turn for the worst.

Boy In The Stripped Pajamas...look at it, you will be speechless once the scree fades to black.

The Orphanage...not you typical horror movie no blood or people heads getting chopped off...one of the best movie that uses everything right to scare you light,music, set design..the overall look of the film is what makes you jump.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Moefiz

I have to agree with you in Downfall, absolutely one of the best movie about Hitler ever portrayed.

I'll add Martyrs to the list, a movie that is every bit nerve wrecking to sit thru and just when you think its your typical horror movie and you know how this is going to turn out it takes a different turn for the worst.

Boy In The Stripped Pajamas...look at it, you will be speechless once the scree fades to black.

The Orphanage...not you typical horror movie no blood or people heads getting chopped off...one of the best movie that uses everything right to scare you light,music, set design..the overall look of the film is what makes you jump.

Thank you for the post and recommendation about Martyrs. I will add it to my queue. Your descriptions of the films here I def. agree with. I guess when I was thinking about foreign films I was thinking about ones in different languages. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas does actually fit though, as it was not an American production. And yes, that was an incredible film. Of course, it was emotionally manipulative, but I thought it was great. Just like Downfall, I hate to say that I love it bc of its topic but it was a great film.

[Secretagentnumber6]

My favorites are in no particular order since 2000.

1. Let the Right One In (Sweden)
2. Infernal Affairs (China/Hong Kong)
3. Oldboy (Korea)
4. The Host (Korea)
5.District B-13 (France)
6. Shaolin Soccer (China/Hong Kong)
7. Kung Fu Hustle (China/Hong Kong)
8. Brotherhood of the Wolf (France)
9. Returner (Japan)
10. Tae Guk Gi (Korea)
11. The Devil's Backbone (Spain/Mexico)
12. Tsotsi (South Africa)
13. Pan's Labyrinth (Spain/Mexico)
14.The Orphanage (Spain/Mexico)
15. Amelie (France)
16. City of God (Brazil)
17.Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (China/Hong Kong)
18. No Man's Land (Boznia/Herzegovina)
19. The Crimson Rivers (France)
20. Wasabi (Japan and France)
21. Tell No One (France)
22. Downfall (Germany)

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Secretagentnumber6

My favorites are in no particular order since 2000.

1. Let the Right One In
2. Infernal Affairs
3. Oldboy
4. The Host
5.District B-13
6. Shaolin Soccer
7. Kung Fu Hustle
8. Brotherhood of the Wolf
9. Returner
10. Tae Guk Gi
11. The Devil's Backbone
12. Tsotsi
13. Pan's Labyrinth
14.The Orphanage
15. Amelie
16. City of God
17.Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon
18. No Man's Land
19. The Crimson Rivers
20. Wasabi
21. Tell No One.
22. Downfall

Wow that's quite a list of foreign films, some of which I haven't heard of. Thank you for posting this--no need to write thoughts on each one!

It's funny, I keep hearing about Oldboy but surprisingly have yet to watch it--what are your thoughts about it?

[Idioteque...]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

Such is the subjectivity of film. You did not like Crouching but you liked Kung Fu Hustle. I loved Crouching but hated Kung Fu Hustle.

I definitely disagree about what is in bold though, the way you phrased it. I think what you mean is that you personally have to be in the mood to watch a foreign film and you personally find it really hard to be captivated by it. I think that most people would actually disagree with you and state that many foreign films are actually MORE captivating. I does require a certain amount of patience to watch a film in a language you don't speak, however (watching dubbed is a travesty).

To round out my top 5, I would probably add in The Orphanage, which I find to be one of the best modern horror films.

Yes that's what I meant to say. For example, I've seen some critically acclaimed foriegn movies but haven't really wanted to see them again. I didn't like Let The Right One In while many did, Chronos, and Pan's Labryinth was good but never had the urge to watch it again. Even though Kung Fu Hustle was relatively over the top, that's what it was supposed to be. Ridiculous and it was hilarious imo. Oh another movie that I have on que and am pretty excited to watch is The City of Lost Children. Heard great things and love Ron Perlman.

[assydingo]

Favorites does not mean masterpiece or classic. With that being said, I like Battle Royale, Wolfhound, Oldboy, Death Note 1 & 2 (haven't seen L: Change The World).

Oh and of course Pan's Labyrinth. Probably more but I have a harder time recalling foreign movies.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Idioteque...

Yes that's what I meant to say. For example, I've seen some critically acclaimed foriegn movies but haven't really wanted to see them again. I didn't like Let The Right One In while many did, Chronos, and Pan's Labryinth was good but never had the urge to watch it again. Even though Kung Fu Hustle was relatively over the top, that's what it was supposed to be. Ridiculous and it was hilarious imo. Oh another movie that I have on que and am pretty excited to watch is The City of Lost Children. Heard great things and love Ron Perlman.

I agree about Let the Right One In. I think that is was unique and interesting in many ways, but I didn't really like it. I also am interested to see The City of Lost Children. Thanks for posting.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by assydingo

Favorites does not mean masterpiece or classic. With that being said, I like Battle Royale, Oldboy, Death Note 1 & 2 (haven't seen L: Change The World).

Oh and of course Pan's Labyrinth. Probably more but I have a harder time recalling foreign movies.

What are Battle Royale and Death Note about?

[Secretagentnumber6]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

Wow that's quite a list of foreign films, some of which I haven't heard of. Thank you for posting this--no need to write thoughts on each one!

It's funny, I keep hearing about Oldboy but surprisingly have yet to watch it--what are your thoughts about it?

I enjoyed all of these. Are they all great, no. Are they enjoyable yes. I actually found this site :
http://www.filmsandtv.com/genre.php?...0Foreign&pg=16
It is missing a few releases, but it has the majority of foreigns released here in the US. I actually though afterward I should go back and put the country of origins on my post so check it again for that.

[jhiggy23]

I would also add The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, which was a truly great film.

A film that was pretty good and multi-layered was Sex and Lucia. Not sure if I can recommend it, but it was definitely unique.

An acclaimed film that I did not like was Volver. Penelope Cruz def. deserved her Oscar nom, but I just did not like the film at all.

[Clark Kent]

"Abre los ojos" starring Penelope Cruz. This is the movie that Hollywood turned into Vanilla Sky. A stunning movie with powerful performances.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Secretagentnumber6

I enjoyed all of these. Are they all great, no. Are they enjoyable yes. I actually found this site :
http://www.filmsandtv.com/genre.php?...0Foreign&pg=16
It is missing a few releases, but it has the majority of foreigns released here in the US. I actually though afterward I should go back and put the country of origins on my post so check it again for that.

Great, thanks.


I also love Hero and House of Flying Daggers. Both were visually incredible and imo, had very good stories.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Clark Kent

"Abre los ojos" starring Penelope Cruz. This is the movie that Hollywood turned into Vanilla Sky. A stunning movie with powerful performances.

Agreed...I thought it was very good, even though the makeup was atrocious. To be honest, I liked Vanilla Sky better because I think the music added a lot to it and I thought Cruz's performance was better. But still worth seeing and a good film.