9 International Movies to Screen
Libraries have always been a hub for community engagement and education, and now they’re becoming epicenters of cultural exploration. Screenings of international movies is an easy and cost-effective way to create space for cultural discovery and connection in your community. The films featured below will immerse patrons in different cultures and unique storytelling techniques, as well as promote understanding, empathy and community connection at your branch.
Osama
An international co-production between companies in Afghanistan, the Netherlands, Japan, Ireland and Iran, this moving film follows a 12-year-old Afghan girl who poses as a boy in order to provide for her family after the Taliban ban women from working outside the home. The masquerade becomes more difficult after she’s drafted into a military training school for boys. The winner of the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Film and three awards at the Cannes Film Festival, this was the first Afghan film produced after the fall of the Taliban, the first film shot entirely in Afghanistan since 1996, and the highest-grossing Afghan film of all time.
Das Boot
Set during World War II, this gripping German film follows the crew of a German U-boat as they embark on a dangerous mission and face the perils of the sea. The film portrays the tension and claustrophobia of life aboard a submarine and shows the psychological toll of war on the crew.
The Sea Inside
Based on a true story, this powerful Spanish drama tells the story of Ramon Sampedro, a man who fights for his right to die after being paralyzed for 28 years. The film raises important ethical and moral questions about the right to die and explores the relationships between family, love, and death.
The Intouchables
A heartwarming French film about an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic man and his caregiver from the projects. The film portrays the challenges of living with a disability, as well as the importance of human connection, empathy and personal growth.
Ladrón que Roba a Ladrón
This witty and action-packed heist film from Mexico follows two former thieves who team up to steal from a wealthy businessman and give back to their fellow immigrants. The film combines humor, action and social commentary to tell a compelling story about justice and redemption.
The Motorcycle Diaries
This visually stunning road movie from Argentina follows a young Che Guevara and his friend on their journey across South America. As they travel through different countries, they encounter poverty, injustice, and political turmoil, which inspire Che's later activism. The film offers a unique perspective on the early life of a historical figure and the political landscape of South America in the 1950s.
Zokkomon
This Bollywood action superhero film tells the story of Kunal, an orphaned boy who is left to fend for himself after his heartless uncle abandons him. With the aid of a street artist, Kunal discovers his inner hero and begins an epic journey of transformation to become Zokkomon.
La Dolce Vita
A classic Italian film from director Federico Fellini that explores the decadence and existentialism of the 1960s Roman high society. The film follows a disillusioned journalist as he navigates the world of celebrities, paparazzi and hedonism, and offers a critique of modernity and consumerism.
Hero
This Chinese martial arts film tells the story of a warrior who recounts his battles and the events that led him to kill the king of Qin. The film uses striking visuals and choreographed fight scenes to explore the concept of heroism and the sacrifices that come with it. It also raises questions about the nature of truth and the role of storytelling in shaping history.
Programming Ideas for International Film Screenings
Looking to enhance engagement at your event? Check out these programming ideas that pair perfectly with the featured films.
- Host an international film festival at your library featuring a selection of films from different countries and regions. This can be a multi-day event with panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and food and music from the featured countries.
- Host screenings of foreign films with subtitles as a fun and engaging way to learn a new language. This can be particularly helpful for language learners who are looking to improve their listening comprehension skills. Make sure to highlight any language learning resources available through the library.
- Coordinate film screenings with cultural celebrations, such as Chinese New Year or Diwali. This can provide a fun and immersive cultural experience for attendees.
All titles mentioned are available for licensing through Swank Movie Licensing USA.