In the world of cinema, Hollywood often dominates the conversation. But tucked away in the corners of the globe are foreign films that rival, and sometimes surpass, their American counterparts in depth, storytelling, and emotional impact. These films may not have received massive marketing campaigns or award-season buzz, but they hold powerful narratives and unforgettable performances. If you are ready to broaden your cinematic horizons, here are some underrated foreign films you should watch as soon as possible.
1. A Separation (Iran, 2011)
Directed by Asghar Farhadi, A Separation is not only one of the most compelling dramas of the last decade, it is also a masterclass in storytelling. The film follows an Iranian couple facing divorce and the ripple effect their personal choices have on those around them. The story slowly unravels to reveal deeper layers of class conflict, justice, and moral ambiguity. It won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, but it is still underappreciated by general audiences outside film circles.
2. The Lives of Others (Germany, 2006)
Set in East Berlin during the Cold War, The Lives of Others tells the story of a Stasi officer assigned to spy on a playwright and his lover. What begins as a straightforward surveillance operation transforms into a deeply personal journey as the officer becomes emotionally entangled in the lives of his subjects. This film is a haunting reminder of the human cost of authoritarian regimes and the quiet power of empathy.
3. Wadjda (Saudi Arabia, 2012)
As the first feature film shot entirely in Saudi Arabia and the first by a female Saudi director, Haifaa al-Mansour’s Wadjda is groundbreaking. But it is more than just a cinematic milestone. It is a beautifully simple and heartfelt story about a ten-year-old girl who dreams of owning a bicycle. Through her innocent but determined eyes, the film explores gender roles, tradition, and quiet rebellion in a conservative society.
4. Burning (South Korea, 2018)
Loosely based on a Haruki Murakami short story, Burning is a slow-burn psychological thriller that leaves you questioning what is real. Directed by Lee Chang-dong, the film follows a deliveryman who reconnects with a childhood friend and becomes entangled in a mysterious triangle involving a wealthy stranger. The film’s ambiguity is intentional and masterful, drawing viewers into its dreamlike atmosphere and chilling conclusion.
5. The Hunt (Denmark, 2012)
Thomas Vinterberg’s The Hunt stars Mads Mikkelsen as a kindergarten teacher falsely accused of a horrific crime. The film is an intense and uncomfortable examination of how a single accusation can unravel a man’s life. It captures the paranoia and hysteria of a small town turning against one of its own, and Mikkelsen delivers one of the most powerful performances of his career.
6. Timecrimes (Spain, 2007)
If you are a fan of time travel thrillers, Timecrimes (original title Los Cronocrímenes) is a hidden gem. Directed by Nacho Vigalondo, this Spanish film offers a clever and tightly wound plot full of suspense and unexpected twists. With minimal special effects and a limited budget, the film relies on smart writing and taut pacing to deliver a mind-bending experience.
7. Rams (Iceland, 2015)
Set in a remote Icelandic valley, Rams tells the story of two estranged brothers who live side by side but have not spoken in decades. When a disease threatens their sheep — a vital part of their livelihood and identity — the brothers must find a way to work together. This quiet and tender film explores themes of pride, family, and the struggle to connect. Its emotional resonance is surprising and deeply affecting.
8. In the Mood for Love (Hong Kong, 2000)
Wong Kar-wai’s In the Mood for Love is often praised by cinephiles but remains relatively unknown to mainstream audiences. This film is a visual and emotional masterpiece, capturing the restrained longing between two neighbors who suspect their spouses of having an affair. With its meticulous cinematography, lush color palette, and evocative score, the film is a meditation on love, loneliness, and missed opportunities.
9. The Secret in Their Eyes (Argentina, 2009)
Winner of the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar, The Secret in Their Eyes is a gripping blend of crime, romance, and political commentary. The story spans decades as a retired legal investigator revisits an unsolved case and his unresolved feelings for a former colleague. The film’s famous long take during a soccer match is a technical marvel, but its emotional depth and complex characters are what truly stand out.
10. Shoplifters (Japan, 2018)
Directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, Shoplifters examines the idea of family through a group of misfits living together on the margins of Japanese society. When they take in a neglected young girl, the bonds between them are tested. The film’s quiet pacing and observational style make its emotional moments all the more poignant. It is a touching and tragic exploration of love, morality, and belonging.
These foreign films offer more than just entertainment. They provide new perspectives, cultural insights, and emotional truths that transcend language barriers. Many of them went under the radar for mainstream audiences, but they each have something profound to say. Watching them is not only rewarding but also essential for anyone who wants to experience the full range of what cinema can offer.