Films About French Politics
French cinema has a rich tradition of exploring the complexities of its political landscape. Films about French politics often delve into themes of power, corruption, social justice, and the impact of political decisions on everyday lives. These films can range from historical dramas that recount pivotal moments in French history to contemporary narratives that tackle modern political issues. Through diverse storytelling styles, these films not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion about the political climate in France.
List of Films About French Politics
“The Class”, 2006
Director: James Burrows
Based on François Bégaudeau's autobiographical novel, this film portrays a year in the life of a middle school teacher in a tough Parisian neighborhood, highlighting the intersection of education and social issues in modern French society.
Starring: Andrea Anders, Jon Bernthal, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Heather Goldenhersh, Sean Maguire, Jason Ritter, Lucy Punch, David Keith, Sam Harris, Julie Halston, Cristián de la Fuente, Jaime King, Karley Scott Collins, Sara Gilbert, Trent Ford, Wayne Wilderson, Kasey Wilson, Maile Flanagan, Rachelle Lefevre, Zoe Lister-Jones, Atticus Shaffer, Essence Atkins, Steve Monroe, Lombardo Boyar, Amy Crofoot, Dennis Satterfield, Ben Falcone, Larry Cedar, Ryan Doom, Charles Emmett, Brandon Rodriguez, Richard Fancy, Aaron Hill, Meera Simhan, Robert Michael Morris, Stacey Hinnen, Jason Weissbrod, Meagen Fay, Ricki Lander, Tasha Tae, Stacie Rippy, Bill Seward, Gayle Samuels, Joss Saltzman, Lawrence J. Chen, Sebastian Gil-Correia, Cameron Sanders, Colin Punchard, Peggy Lane O'Rourke;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: melodrama, comedy;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “The Class” on the website imdb.com
“The Minister”, 2019
Director: Matt Parks
This political drama provides a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a French transport minister as he navigates the turbulent waters of politics, power struggles, and personal dilemmas, shedding light on the complexities of governance.
Starring: Matt Parks, James Mullinger, Eric Braun, Kayla Hache, Shannon Parks;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: short film, action;
Rating: IMDB: 0;
More information about the film “The Minister” on the website imdb.com
“The French Revolution”, 2005
Director: Doug Shultz
A historical drama that chronicles the events leading up to and during the French Revolution, this miniseries explores the political upheaval that transformed France and its society, illustrating the struggle for liberty and equality.
Starring: Edward Herrmann, George Ivascu, Rodica Lazăr, Tomi Cristin, Phillip Levine, David Bell, Jack Censer, William Doyle, Michael Farquhar, Lynn Hunt, David Jordan, Evelyne Lever, Sarah Maza, Alan Woods;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: documentary, history;
Duration: 100 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “The French Revolution” on the website imdb.com
“The Beloved”, 1971
Director: George P. Cosmatos
While primarily a romantic musical, the film also touches on themes of political change in France, set against the backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s, exploring how personal and political lives intertwine.
Starring: Raquel Welch, Richard Johnson, Jack Hawkins, Flora Robson, Renato Romano, Dimitris Hadjivangelou, Maro Kafkaridou, Dinos Lyras, Andreas Nicolis, Elli Panayotou, Françoise Pascal, Elena Tournazi, Ismene Zachariadou, Lenia Sorocou, Natalia Stefanou, Frank Wolff, Ilias Aletras, Papes Filipides, Damon Welch, Tahnee Welch;
Production year: 1971;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 88 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 4,8;
“The Siege of Jadotville”, 2016
Director: Richie Smyth
Based on true events, this film recounts the story of a group of Irish soldiers sent to protect a mining town in Congo during a political crisis, highlighting the global implications of French colonialism and international politics.
Starring: Jamie Dornan, Mark Strong, Mikael Persbrandt, Danny Sapani, Jason O'Mara, Michael McElhatton, Guillaume Canet, Fiona Glascott, Emmanuelle Seigner, Sam Keeley, Richard Lukunku, Andrew Stock, Fionn O'Shea, Ronan Raftery, Mike Noble, Melissa Haiden, Jordan Mifsud, Conor Quinlan, Charlie Kelly, Conor MacNeill, Charmaine Weir-Smith, Danny Keogh, Thulasizwe Kubheka, Luc Van Grunderbeeck, Ashish Gangapersad, Robert van de Coolwijk, Gérard Rudolf, Mike Bodie, Kyle Ryan Diffenthal, Alexander Tops, Garth Breytenbach, Leon Clingman, Ashley Taylor, Michael Richard, Robert Hobbs, Michael Hillberg, Edwin Jay, Chris van Rensburg;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: action, war, biography, history;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “The Siege of Jadotville” on the website imdb.com
These films reflect the multifaceted nature of French politics, providing audiences with both entertainment and critical insight into the nation's political history and current issues.
In the realm of French politics, films have served as a powerful medium for exploring the complexities of the country's political landscape. From historical dramas to contemporary satires, the selection of films about French politics offers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of power, corruption, and societal change. These films not only shed light on the inner workings of French politics but also challenge viewers to reflect on the broader themes of democracy, identity, and the pursuit of justice. Whether it's the gripping narratives or the brilliant performances, the films about French politics leave an indelible mark, reminding us of the enduring relevance of cinema in examining the world around us.
