Sarunrat Ardpruksa
12 Jul 2024
If you’ve ever daydreamed about strolling along the Seine or munching on a croissant at a cosy café, you’re not alone. The magic of Paris has been captured on screen, sparking wanderlust and travel dreams for years. Here are ten blockbuster movies that will get you itching to book that ticket to Paris.
Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris” is a nostalgic trip back to the city’s artistic golden age. The film follows Gil Pender (Owen Wilson), a writer who finds himself transported to the 1920s every night. Meeting legends like Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí, Gil’s time-travel adventure beautifully showcases Paris’s rich cultural past. The cinematography captures the city’s timeless charm, from cobbled streets to the grandeur of Versailles.
Pixar’s “Ratatouille” is a love letter to Paris’s food scene. The animated film tells the story of Remy, a rat who dreams of becoming a chef, teaming up with a young cook to create culinary masterpieces. Against the backdrop of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine, “Ratatouille” nails the essence of French gastronomy. The film’s celebration of food and cooking will make you want to explore Paris’s top restaurants and markets.
Richard Linklater’s “Before Sunset” is the second in the beloved “Before” trilogy, following Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) as they reconnect in Paris. The film’s dialogue-heavy narrative takes viewers on an intimate tour of the city’s streets, gardens, and bookstores. From Shakespeare and Company to the Seine, “Before Sunset” captures Paris’s serene beauty and the magic of chance encounters.
Vinci Code” kicks off its mystery in Paris. As symbologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) deciphers clues hidden in famous artworks, the film takes viewers on a fast-paced tour of the Louvre, including the iconic glass pyramid and the Mona Lisa. The movie’s thrilling plot and stunning visuals make it a gripping exploration of Paris’s artistic and historical gems.
“Paris, Je T’aime” is an anthology film made up of 18 short segments, each set in a different part of Paris. Directed by a global mix of filmmakers, the movie offers a vivid look at the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and cultures. From romantic moments to heartfelt goodbyes, each story shows a unique side of Parisian life. This film is a tribute to the city’s many experiences.
Tom Hooper’s take on the classic musical “Les Misérables” brings 19th-century Paris to life. The epic tale of love, revolution, and redemption is set against the backdrop of landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Place de la Bastille. The sweeping visuals and powerful performances make it a stirring nod to the city’s tumultuous history and resilient spirit.
Though mainly set in Los Angeles, “La La Land” features a standout Parisian dream sequence. As Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) and Mia (Emma Stone) imagine a life together, they dance along the Seine and through the city’s charming streets. This whimsical moment captures the romantic ideal of Paris and adds a touch of magic to the film’s story. It’s a reminder of the city’s universal appeal as a symbol of love and possibility.
Martin Scorsese’s “Hugo” is a tribute to early filmmaking, set in 1930s Paris. The film follows a young orphan, Hugo Cabret, living in a train station and uncovering a mysterious link to filmmaker Georges Méliès. With its beautifully crafted sets and stunning visuals, “Hugo” takes viewers to a bygone era of Parisian glamour and innovation. The film’s celebration of creativity and wonder makes it an inspiring tribute to the city’s artistic heritage.
“The Hundred-Foot Journey” is a heartwarming story of culinary rivalry and cultural fusion. The film follows an Indian family who opens a restaurant in a small French village, just a hundred feet from a Michelin-starred establishment. The lovely French countryside and Paris’s culinary traditions play key roles in this story, making it a delightful mix of food, family, and cultural blending.
“Me Before You” is a touching romance featuring some of Paris’s most iconic sights. As Louisa (Emilia Clarke) and Will (Sam Claflin) take a trip to the City of Light, the film captures the beauty of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, and other famous landmarks. The heartfelt story, combined with the Parisian backdrop, makes this film a memorable experience that will inspire you to visit the city.