The Best Foreign Language movies of 2022 represent a great year for international cinema, with many talented filmmakers and actors bringing their unique visions to the big screen. From the heart-wrenching drama of Decision to Leave to emotionally bounded No Bear, these movies represent the best of what foreign language cinema has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of historical epics, romantic comedies, or psychological thrillers, there’s something on this list for everyone. Moreover, in this listicle, we will take a closer look at each of these 12 films, providing a brief overview of their plots and themes, as well as some insight into the filmmakers and actors behind them. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be transported to new and exciting worlds with these top foreign language movies of 2022.
Checkout The Best Foreign Language Movies of 2022
1. Bardo False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths
Directed by Academy Award-winning Mexican filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths is a film that follows Silverio, a Mexican journalist and documentary filmmaker, as he travels back to his native country to receive a prestigious award. Along the way, he is forced to confront his past and reevaluate his identity, relationships, and place in the world.
The film stars Daniel Giménez Cacho stars as Silverio, delivering a powerful and memorable performance. Moreover, the movie also explores themes of success, family, and what it means to be human in today’s society, weaving together drama, humour, and introspection. You can stream the film on Netflix.
2. The Blue Caftan
The Blue Caftan is a thought-provoking and poignant drama directed by Maryam Touzani. Set in the bustling medina of Salé, Morocco, the film follows the lives of a woman and her closetedly gay husband, both of whom run a caftan store. As they go about their daily routine of serving customers and managing their business, they are joined by a young man who becomes their apprentice.
As the three characters work together and get to know one another, they must navigate the complex social and cultural norms of their community, including the expectations placed on them as a married couple and the challenges faced by those who are different or perceived as outsiders.
Through its nuanced portrayal of these characters and their relationships, The Blue Caftan delves into themes of identity, love, acceptance, and the human desire for connection and understanding. The film’s setting in the vibrant and colourful backdrop of Salé adds an additional layer of authenticity and cultural richness to the story. You can stream the film on Mubi.
3. Close
Close is a heart-wrenching coming-of-age drama that follows the lives of two young boys, Léo and Rémi, as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and friendship. Set against the backdrop of a long summer holiday, the film explores the innocent intimacy of their relationship and the challenges that arise when their peers take notice. As Léo and Rémi’s friendship is scrutinized and commented on by their contemporaries, Léo begins to distance himself from Rémi in an attempt to protect their bond.
The film features talented performances by Eden Dambrine, Gustav de Waele, Emilie Dequenne, and Léa Drucker, and is directed by the acclaimed Lukas Dhont, whose previous film, Girl, received widespread critical acclaim. With its poignant depiction of friendship and the complexities of growing up, the film is bound to shake you to the core. You can stream the film on Mubi.
4. Cairo Conspiracy
Cairo Conspiracy (Boy from Heaven) is a thrilling political thriller set in the city of Cairo. The film follows Adam, a young fisherman’s son, who is given the opportunity to study at the prestigious University. However, his time at the university is quickly disrupted when the Grand Imam of al-Azhar dies, triggering a power struggle for succession. Adam finds himself caught in the middle of political intrigue, and must navigate the dangerous world of Egyptian politics in order to survive.
Directed by Tarik Saleh, Boy from Heaven is sure to be a suspenseful and exciting film that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With its complex characters and fast-paced plot, the film is sure to appeal to fans of political thrillers and those interested in themes like politics and succession. You can stream it on Mubi.
5. Corsage
Corsage is a historical drama film set in late 19th century Austria and centred around the life of Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi. The film follows the Empress as she approaches her 40th birthday and begins to exhibit strange behaviours, including an obsession with her appearance and weight. Known for her beauty and fame, Sisi spends an excessive amount of time focusing on her appearance and striving to maintain her youth and attractiveness.
The film stars Vicky Krieps as the Empress, alongside Florian Teichtmeister, Katharina Lorenz, and a talented ensemble cast. Written and directed by Marie Kreutzer, Corsage is sure to be a captivating and immersive exploration of the life and struggles of Empress Elisabeth. With its compelling story and excellent performances, Corsage is a film that should not be missed. You can stream it on Mubi.
6. Decision To Leave
Decision to Leave is an alluring romantic mystery film set in South Korea and directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan-wook. The film follows a detective as he investigates the death of a man in the mountains and begins to develop feelings for the dead man’s secretive wife in the process. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds himself drawn to the enigmatic woman and becomes increasingly determined to uncover the truth behind the man’s death.
The feature stars Tang Wei and Park Hae-il in lead roles and is sure to be a thrilling and emotional tale of love and mystery. With its compelling plot and top-notch performances, Decision to Leave is one of the best foreign language movies of the year. You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video.
7. EO
EO, also known as Io, is an internationally co-produced road film directed by Jerzy Skolimowski. Inspired by the classic film Au Hasard Balthazar, the film follows the life of a donkey born in a Polish circus.
Through its unique perspective and compelling narrative, EO offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and the ways in which we connect with the world around us. With its beautiful cinematography and powerful performances, the movie is sure to be a memorable and emotionally resonant ride that speaks to audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of road films or simply enjoy a good story, EO remains a must-watch film. You can stream it on Mubi.
8. Joyland
Joyland is a drama film set in Pakistan and directed by Saim Sadiq in his feature film debut. The plot of the movie revolves around the Rana family and their patriarchal expectation for the birth of another son. As the family navigates the expectations and societal pressures surrounding gender and family dynamics, they must also confront their own desires and conflicts.
Furthermore, the film features Ali Junejo, Rasti Farooq, Alina Khan, Sarwat Gilani, and Salmaan Peerzada. All in all, Joyland is a powerful and moving exploration of family, gender, and identity. You can stream the film on Mubi.
9. Holy Spider
Holy Spider is a Persian-language crime thriller film directed by Ali Abbasi that tells the true story of Saeed Hanaei, a serial killer who targeted sex workers in Mashhad, Iran during the early 2000s. The film follows a female journalist as she investigates the murders and works to identify the killer.
As she delves deeper into the case, she becomes ensnared in a web of deceit and danger and must use her skills and determination to catch the killer. With its intense plot and heart-pumping scenes, Holy Spider definitely keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. This film explores the disturbing reality of serial killings and the lengths that some people will go to in order to avoid being caught.
10. The Quiet Girl
The Quiet Girl is a beautifully crafted Irish-language film that tells the heartwarming story of a young girl’s summer on a farm with distant relatives. Set in 1981, the film follows a withdrawn nine-year-old girl who has never experienced a loving home before. As she spends the summer with her new family on the farm, the girl begins to come out of her shell and form meaningful relationships with her relatives.
With its stunning cinematography and touching performances, The Quiet Girl is a film that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of audiences. Written and directed by Colm Bairéad, the film is a poignant exploration of family, belonging, and the transformative power of love. You can stream the film on Mubi.
11. Saint Omer
Saint Omer is a French language drama film that tells the story of a pregnant young novelist named Rama who becomes embroiled in a trial, involving a woman, who is held for murdering her 15-month-old child by leaving her on a beach, that eventually swept him away.
12. All Quiet on the Western Front
All Quiet on the Western Front is a 2022 epic anti-war film based on the classic novel of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque. Moreover, the plot of the film is based on the last days of World War I and follows the story of Paul Baumer, a young German soldier who enlists in the army with his friends.
The film is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the devastating impact of war on individuals and society. Directed by Edward Berger and starring Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, and Daniel Brühl, among others, this flick is bound to be an unforgettable and emotionally resonant experience.
Let us know your favourite Best Foreign Language movies of 2022 from the list, in the comment section below.
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