(Image viaSometimes, the best stories come from the most unexpected places. Foreign films offer an amazing chance to see the world through new eyes, breaking boundaries with fresh perspectives, unique storytelling, and rich cultural details. If you’ve only been watching Hollywood blockbusters, it might be time to explore the hidden gems of international cinema. Below, we’ve rounded up five underrated foreign films released between 2021 and 2025 that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
1. Drive My Car (Japan)
- Premiered on July 11, 2021, at the Cannes Film Festival.
This Japanese masterpiece by Ryusuke Hamaguchi is more than just a movie—it’s a soulful, meditative experience. The film tells the story of a grieving theater director who forms an unlikely bond with his quiet chauffeur while they rehearse a production of Uncle Vanya. At first glance, its three-hour runtime might seem daunting, but it’s worth every second. With a script that dives deep into themes like loss, love, and human connection, Drive My Car is a profound and emotional ride that will stick with you long after the credits roll.
Why Watch It?
The acting is stellar, and the film’s quiet moments allow you to feel the characters' emotions. It reminds us that some of life’s biggest lessons happen in the smallest interactions.
2. The Hand of God (Italy)
- Premiered on September 2, 2021, at the Venice Film Festival.
The Hand of God is a nostalgic coming-of-age story directed by Paolo Sorrentino. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s Naples, the movie revolves around Fabietto, a teenager whose world is turned upside down by a tragic family event. At its core, this film is a love letter to Sorrentino’s hometown and early life.
With stunning cinematography and heartfelt performances, The Hand of God beautifully captures the messy yet magical experience of growing up. It’s a story about tragedy, but also about finding hope and purpose in the midst of life’s chaos.
Why Watch It?
The visuals alone will transport you to Italy, but it’s the raw, emotional honesty of the story that will truly capture your heart.
3. Flee (Denmark)
- Premiered on January 28, 2021, at the Sundance Film Festival.
Flee is a groundbreaking animated documentary that tells a deeply personal and powerful story. It follows Amin, a man who fled Afghanistan as a child and has been carrying secrets about his past for decades. Through vivid hand-drawn animation, Amin opens up about his experiences dealing with displacement, identity, and finding a place to call home.
This film stands out not just for its creativity, but for its emotional punch. It blurs the line between film and documentary, making it a one-of-a-kind watch that brings attention to the struggles faced by refugees around the world.
Why Watch It?
It’s a unique blend of animation and real-life emotion that dives into the universal quest for acceptance and belonging.
4. Emilia Pérez (France)
- Premiered in 2024
Imagine a musical melodrama with bold visuals and eccentric storytelling—that’s Emilia Pérez. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this French gem is an audacious ride through the world of identity and transformation. It tells the story of a fugitive’s wild adventure, blending heartfelt drama with quirky, musical sequences.
While Emilia Pérez might seem unconventional, it’s a breath of fresh air if you’re looking for something outside the norm. Moody and vibrant, this film is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
Why Watch It?
Its daring approach to storytelling sets it apart as a bizarre and beautiful film.
5. Flow (Latvia)
- Premiered in 2024.
If you’re looking for a film that’s visually stunning and full of imagination, Flow is a must-watch. This animated fantasy, crafted by Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis, takes viewers on an enchanting adventure. The story is about self-discovery and resilience, set in a dreamlike world that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
It’s a rare find that blends breathtaking art with a poignant narrative. Despite its niche appeal, Flow is a movie that speaks to big ideas like perseverance, hope, and the magic of pushing through tough times.
Why Watch It?
The visuals alone are mesmerizing, but the story will remind you of the beauty in overcoming life’s challenges.
6. The Worst Person in the World (Norway)
- Premiered on July 8, 2021, at the Cannes Film Festival.
This Norwegian romantic dramedy by Joachim Trier is as relatable as it is raw. The film follows Julie, a young woman struggling with indecision in her personal and professional life. From love triangles to existential questioning, The Worst Person in the World is a tug-of-war between society’s expectations and one’s deepest desires. The film is as charming as it is bittersweet, capturing the beauty and mess of figuring out who you are.
Why Watch It?
It’s brutally honest in how it reflects the highs and lows of modern relationships and self-discovery, while delivering moments of humor and heartbreak.
7. Petite Maman (France)
- Premiered on March 3, 2021, at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Céline Sciamma follows her critically acclaimed Portrait of a Lady on Fire with this small but deeply profound story. Petite Maman is a magical, tender exploration of childhood and family connections. It focuses on an eight-year-old girl who forms a unique bond with an unexpected person. At only 72 minutes long, this film feels like a delicate poem—a quiet yet powerful exploration of love, loss, and the fleeting beauty of youth.
Why Watch It?
Its simplicity is its strength, proving that an enormous emotional impact can be delivered without big-budget spectacle.
8. I'm Your Man (Germany)
- Premiered on March 12, 2021, at the Berlin International Film Festival.
This German romantic comedy, directed by Maria Schrader, offers a unique spin on the question of what it means to love. Alma, a skeptical scientist, reluctantly agrees to test out a humanoid robot named Tom, designed to be the “perfect partner.” What follows is a thought-provoking and often humorous exploration of connection, loneliness, and the blurred lines between humanity and technology.
Why Watch It?
This film, which features Dan Stevens in a brilliant turn as the charming robot, is both funny and deeply moving. It raises questions about love in the age of AI without being overly serious.
9. The Seed of the Sacred Fig (Germany/Iran)
- Premiered in 2024
This visually stunning feature by Mohammad Rasoulof is a poignant blend of mysticism and realism. Steeped in cultural and spiritual elements, the story revolves around themes of faith, power, and personal sacrifice. Set in Germany and Iran, The Seed of the Sacred Fig weaves a tale that reflects the struggles of identity and resilience in the face of hardship. It’s as thought-provoking as it is visually mesmerizing.
Why Watch It?
The film offers a rich, layered narrative filled with cultural depth and breathtaking visuals that leave a lasting impression.
Why You Should Explore These Films
Watching foreign films is like taking a trip without leaving your couch. Each one illuminates different cultures, emotions, and experiences, broadening your worldview in the process. From heartfelt dramas like Drive My Car to daring adventures like Flow, these films go beyond entertainment—they’re stories that connect people across borders.
Take a chance on one of these underrated gems next time you’re scrolling for something new to watch. Who knows? You might find a fresh perspective—and your new favorite film—in the process.
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