20 Must-Watch Non-English Films Streaming Now
Movies from around the world bring fresh perspectives, raw emotions, and bold storytelling that can hit harder than Hollywood blockbusters. Non-English language films, with their diverse voices and styles, often dive deep into universal human experiences, proving subtitles are no barrier to great cinema.
From gripping dramas to thrilling action, these films showcase the power of global storytelling, available right at your fingertips on streaming platforms. Here are 20 of the best non-English language movies you can stream today, each a gem worth discovering.
20. The Summit of the Gods (2021)
A French anime follows a journalist chasing a legendary camera tied to Everest’s history. The mountain’s majesty and intense climbing scenes grip you.
Patrick Imbert’s direction and stunning visuals make this a thrilling adventure. It’s a unique blend of mystery and survival, streaming on Netflix.
19. The Guilty (2018)
A Danish cop, demoted to desk duty, gets pulled into a tense kidnapping case via phone calls. Jakob Cedergren’s performance carries the single-location thriller.
The film’s tight script and real-time pacing keep you on edge. Stream it on Hulu for a masterclass in minimalist suspense.
18. The Hand of God (2021)
Paolo Sorrentino’s Italian drama follows a teen in 1980s Naples navigating family tragedy and dreams. Its mix of humor and heartbreak feels deeply personal.
The vibrant visuals and tender coming-of-age story shine on Netflix. Filippo Scotti’s raw performance anchors this nostalgic gem.
17. The Intouchables (2011)
A French dramedy about a wealthy paraplegic and his caregiver from the projects. Omar Sy and François Cluzet spark joy and warmth in their unlikely bond.
The film’s humor and heart make it a global hit. Stream it on Netflix for a feel-good yet grounded story.
16. Troll (2022)
This Norwegian monster flick pits a ragtag team against a giant troll wreaking havoc on Oslo. Roar Uthaug blends folklore with blockbuster action.
Its thrilling set pieces and local flavor make it a fun ride. Available on Netflix, it’s a top-streamed non-English hit.
15. The Platform (2019)
A Spanish sci-fi horror set in a vertical prison where food descends unevenly. Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia’s brutal allegory tackles greed and survival.
The film’s intense visuals and social commentary grip you. Stream it on Netflix for a chilling, thought-provoking ride.
14. A Separation (2011)
An Iranian couple faces a divorce that unravels family and moral dilemmas. Asghar Farhadi’s drama is tense and emotionally raw.
The universal themes and tight storytelling earned it an Oscar. Find it on Amazon Prime for a gripping human story.
13. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Céline Sciamma’s French romance follows a painter and her subject falling in love in 1700s Brittany. The slow-burn passion is breathtaking.
Adèle Haenel and Noémie Merlant’s chemistry lights up Hulu. The film’s quiet intensity makes it a modern classic.
12. The Battle of Algiers (1966)
Gillo Pontecorvo’s Italian-Algerian film recreates the Algerian uprising with gritty realism. Its docu-style approach feels like a real rebellion.
The raw energy and historical weight still resonate. Stream it on Criterion Channel for a timeless political thriller.
11. Amélie (2001)
Audrey Tautou plays a whimsical Parisian spreading joy while finding love. Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s French comedy is quirky and endlessly charming.
Its vibrant colors and playful tone make it a perfect starter for non-English films. Stream it on Netflix.
10. Through My Window (2022)
A Spanish teen romance follows Raquel’s obsession with her neighbor Ares. Their steamy, flawed love story captures young passion.
The film’s raw energy and modern vibe make it a Netflix hit. It’s a guilty pleasure with heart.
9. Oldboy (2003)
Park Chan-wook’s South Korean thriller tracks a man seeking revenge after 15 years of captivity. Its shocking twists and brutal action stun.
Choi Min-sik’s raw performance and the iconic hallway fight make it legendary. Stream it on Hulu.
8. City of God (2002)
This Brazilian crime epic follows two boys in Rio’s violent slums. Fernando Meirelles’ kinetic style and real stories hit hard.
The raw performances and vivid visuals grip you. Available on Max, it’s a must-see crime saga.
7. Life Is Beautiful (1997)
Roberto Benigni’s Italian comedy-drama follows a father shielding his son in a Nazi camp. Its blend of humor and tragedy is unforgettable.
Benigni’s heartfelt performance won an Oscar. Stream it on Amazon Prime for a moving classic.
6. Burning (2018)
A South Korean psychological thriller about a deliveryman caught in a mysterious love triangle. Lee Chang-dong’s slow burn builds haunting tension.
Yoo Ah-in and Steven Yeun’s performances linger. Find it on Mubi for a gripping, unsettling watch.
5. Cinema Paradiso (1988)
Giuseppe Tornatore’s Italian love letter to movies follows a boy’s bond with a projectionist. Its nostalgic warmth and cinema passion shine.
The emotional climax hits hard. Stream it on Amazon Prime for a heartfelt classic.
4. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Guillermo del Toro’s Spanish dark fantasy blends fairy tales with war-torn Spain. Ivana Baquero’s young heroine navigates a haunting world.
The film’s magical yet brutal visuals are stunning. Watch it on Max for a genre-defying masterpiece.
3. Seven Samurai (1954)
Akira Kurosawa’s Japanese epic follows samurai defending a village from bandits. Its action and heart inspired countless films.
Toshiro Mifune’s wild energy steals the show. Stream it on Criterion Channel for a timeless adventure.
2. Spirited Away (2001)
Hayao Miyazaki’s Japanese animated masterpiece follows a girl in a spirit world. Its imaginative visuals and emotional depth are unmatched.
The film’s universal appeal won an Oscar. Watch it on Max for a magical journey.
1. Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s South Korean thriller about a poor family infiltrating a rich one blends comedy, drama, and suspense. Its sharp class commentary stunned the world.
The ensemble’s flawless acting and twists make it a landmark. Stream it on Max for an Oscar-winning masterpiece.
Which non-English film hooked you, or did I miss a global gem? Share your favorites in the comments!