By: Fayza Hany

Let’s be honest, Hollywood has always spoiled us with the best timeless movies. But we’re sorry Hollywood, it’s time to give other movies some credit too!

1. Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain (French)

2001 Romance/Comedy

Well if you haven’t watched this movie yet, you are absolutely missing a lot and I guarantee that it’s going to be one of your favorite movies of all time! The story is just breathtaking, coupled with amazing cinematography and an addictive soundtrack. After finishing the movie, you’ll get this inexplicable feeling of hugging everyone and making the world a better place. To be honest, just watching Audrey Tautou speaking French is more than enough!

2. The Lives of Others (German)

2006 ‧ Drama/Thriller 

Art, love and politics always make the perfect mixture and this movie brings it to a whole new level. It shows you the dark and bright side of each one of them in a simple yet intense way. You will be captivated by the actors’ eyes; they are so expressive that you’ll want them to just stay quiet so you can enjoy their amazing performance. This is not an ordinary movie and you’ll have many feelings but at the end, you’ll find yourself giving it a round of applause.

3. Cinema Paradiso (Italian)

1988 ‧ Drama 

Cinema Paradiso is a classic for every movie lover. This fascinating movie takes us to a journey in the past to remind us that dreams do come true, while showing us the magical power of movies that charm us in ways we can’t even imagine. It will tickle your heart with nostalgia, happiness, sadness and love.

The soundtrack is literally the cherry on top of the cake.

4. Pan’s Labyrinth (Spanish)

2006 ‧ Drama/Fantasy 

This dark fantasy shows us the ugly side of war and people in a symbolic yet innocent way. You’ll have to pay attention to every single detail because without a doubt, it will mean something and it’s up to you to understand it and interpret it the way you want.

5. A Separation (Iranian)

2011 ‧ Drama/Mystery 

Iranian cinema!! Who would imagine that they could bring such a masterpiece to the world? It introduces you to a different culture that most of us know nothing about. All the actors are absolutely amazing. The performances, without exaggerating or being over dramatic, are flawless and will touch you on so many levels. You’ll end up doing all the crying and drama. P.S: you’ll need LOTS of tissue.

Give these movies a shot and you won’t be disappointed.