Top 5 French animated movies: a ranking of creative brilliance

French cinema, renowned for its artistic merit and cinematic vision, has witnessed the creation of several creative and iconic animated films throughout the years. French animation stands out for its commitment to inspiring and enlightening audiences through highly imaginative and thought-provoking storytelling. Let's see what are the top 5 French movies.

5. The Triplets of Belleville (2003)

Transporting viewers on a strange and otherworldly adventure through the streets of Belleville, 'The Triplets of Belleville' tells the tale of Madame Souza and her dog Bruno's quest to rescue her mysteriously kidnapped grandson. The film's primary focus lies in its highly experimental animation style, showcasing various animation techniques and character designs that contribute to the uniqueness of Belleville. With minimal reliance on dialogue and engrossing visuals, it captivates audiences regardless of their familiarity with foreign films.

4. I Lost My Body (2019)

'I Lost My Body' narrates the intertwining stories of Naoufel, on a journey of young love, and a severed hand that escapes a dissection lab in search of its body. Through its artistic portrayal of Paris, the film delves into darker realms, offering a multi-layered narrative exploring themes of loss, coming of age, and the intertwining of physical and emotional aspects. This beautifully constructed film presents the city from multiple perspectives, visually capturing both its vibrant and underground faces.

3. My Life as a Zucchini (2016)

In 'My Life as a Zucchini,' young orphan Zucchini navigates a challenging childhood following the death of his mother. The film adeptly balances mature and touching storytelling with whimsical claymation animation. Through his journey at a new foster home, Zucchini learns to trust, love, and find a new family in an atmosphere that weaves themes of coming of age and resilience. The distinct character designs make the film visually distinguished and memorable.

2. Persepolis (2007)

Set in 1970s Iran, 'Persepolis' revolves around the experiences of Marji, a young girl who witnesses the Iranian Revolution and eventually comes face-to-face with its subsequent repressive regime. As she grows and faces difficult realities, Marji gains a profound understanding of both the world and her place within it. The film's powerful nature stems not only from its unique perspective but also from its simplistic yet striking black-and-white visuals that accentuate the character designs, leaving a lasting impact.

1. Fantastic Planet (1973)

Fantastic Planet' catapults viewers into the mesmerizing world of Ygam, an inhabited planet controlled by technologically and spiritually advanced aliens called Draags. The film explores the Draags' relationship with the Oms, a subordinate species they view as insignificant. Follow the journey of a hidden group of Oms and their struggle for survival against the dominant Draags' oppression. 'Fantastic Planet' is an immediately identifiable and unparalleled animation gem, merging distinctive visuals with a gripping and sometimes unnerving storyline. This groundbreaking animated piece remains an extraordinary achievement in cinema.

Ultimately, French animation continues to push boundaries, captivating audiences with its artistic flair, profound narratives, and distinctive visual styles. These top-ranked films exemplify the stunning depth and creativity of French animated cinema across multiple decades.

Earlier SSP told about 5 must-watch thriller movies in the year 2024.