Jean Renoir was a French film director, screenwriter, and actor, and is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential filmmakers in the history of cinema
Each of these films represents Renoir’s unique style and voice, and showcases his ability to blend comedy, drama, and social commentary in his films.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood cinema or modern art house films, there’s something for everyone in Renoir’s filmography.
Best Jean Renoir Films
Jean Renoir was a French filmmaker who is considered one of the greatest directors of all time. His films often explored social issues and human nature, and he was known for his innovative use of camera techniques and his ability to create complex characters. Here are some of his best films:
La Grande Illusion (1937) – a war film that explores the class differences among soldiers during World War I.
The Rules of the Game (1939) – a satirical comedy of manners that skewers the upper-class society of 1930s France.
The River (1951) – a coming-of-age story set in India that explores the tensions between traditional values and Western influence.
Boudu Saved from Drowning (1932) – a comedy about a vagrant who is rescued from the Seine by a bookseller and proceeds to turn his life upside down.
The Crime of Monsieur Lange (1936) – a socially conscious film about a group of workers who take over a publishing company after their boss absconds with the profits.
These films, and many others in Renoir’s filmography, demonstrate his ability to create engaging stories and memorable characters while exploring deeper issues and themes.
1. The Rules of the Game (1939)
“The Rules of the Game” is a 1939 French film directed by Jean Renoir. It is a satirical comedy of manners that explores the complex relationships and social dynamics of the French upper class in the years leading up to World War II.
The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, and it has been praised for its sophisticated use of camera techniques, its sharp dialogue, and its masterful storytelling.
The film takes place over the course of a weekend at a country estate, where a group of wealthy French aristocrats gather for a hunting party.
As the weekend progresses, tensions rise and various romantic and social entanglements become increasingly complicated.
The film features a large ensemble cast of characters, including a philandering pilot, a love triangle between a businessman, his wife, and her lover, and a famous aviator who becomes the object of desire for many of the women at the party.
At its core, “The Rules of the Game” is a commentary on the decadence and moral decay of French society in the years leading up to World War II.
The film was initially poorly received upon its release, but it has since been recognized as a masterpiece of French cinema and an important cultural artifact of its time.
![The Rules of the Game (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/514quGu-sYL.jpg)
2. The Grand Illusion (1937)
“The Grand Illusion” is a 1937 French war film directed by Jean Renoir. Set during World War I, the film tells the story of a group of French soldiers who are taken prisoner by the Germans and placed in a prison camp. The film explores themes of class, nationality, and the human cost of war.
The film’s title refers to the idea that the differences between people are illusory and that, in the end, we are all connected as human beings.
The film highlights the class differences between the prisoners and their captors, as well as the camaraderie that develops between the prisoners regardless of their social status.
One of the most striking features of the film is its humanistic approach to war. The film does not glorify war, nor does it demonize the enemy.
Instead, it shows the human cost of war on both sides of the conflict, emphasizing the common humanity that binds us all.
“The Grand Illusion” was widely acclaimed upon its release and has since become a classic of French cinema. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture and is often cited as one of the greatest war films ever made. The film’s influence can be seen in later works such as “The Great Escape” and “Stalag 17.”
3. La Chienne (1931)
“The Rules of the Game” is a 1939 French film directed by Jean Renoir. It is a satirical comedy of manners that explores the complex relationships and social dynamics of the French upper class in the years leading up to World War II.
The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, and it has been praised for its sophisticated use of camera techniques, its sharp dialogue, and its masterful storytelling.
The film takes place over the course of a weekend at a country estate, where a group of wealthy French aristocrats gather for a hunting party.
As the weekend progresses, tensions rise and various romantic and social entanglements become increasingly complicated.
The film features a large ensemble cast of characters, including a philandering pilot, a love triangle between a businessman, his wife, and her lover, and a famous aviator who becomes the object of desire for many of the women at the party.
At its core, “The Rules of the Game” is a commentary on the decadence and moral decay of French society in the years leading up to World War II.
The film was initially poorly received upon its release, but it has since been recognized as a masterpiece of French cinema and an important cultural artifact of its time.
![La chienne (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51B2UGfQmeL.jpg)
4. The Lower Depths (1936)
“The Lower Depths” is a 1936 French film directed by Jean Renoir, based on the play of the same name by Maxim Gorky. The film tells the story of a group of impoverished people who live in a boarding house on the outskirts of Paris, and their struggles to survive and find meaning in their lives.
The film portrays a wide range of characters, from a drunken actor to a former aristocrat, and explores their various struggles and hopes. Despite their different backgrounds, the characters are united by their poverty and their shared experiences of suffering.
The film is notable for its use of naturalistic acting and cinematography, which give the film a gritty, realistic feel. The camera moves freely through the boarding house, capturing the characters’ lives and struggles in a way that feels almost documentary-like.
“The Lower Depths” is a poignant and emotionally charged drama that offers a powerful exploration of poverty and the human condition. The film’s themes of hope, despair, and the struggle for survival remain relevant today, making it a timeless classic of French cinema.
![The Lower Depths (1936) ( Les bas-fonds ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.0 Import - France ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416K17q2JiL.jpg)
5. La Bête Humaine (1938)
“La Bête Humaine” is a 1938 French film directed by Jean Renoir, based on the novel of the same name by Emile Zola. The film tells the story of a train engineer, Jacques Lantier, who struggles with his own violent impulses and falls in love with a woman who is married to his co-worker.
The film is a masterful exploration of human psychology, using the character of Lantier to delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche. Lantier’s uncontrollable rage is a metaphor for the destructive forces that lie within all of us, and the film explores the ways in which these forces can be both a source of power and a cause of great harm.
In addition to its exploration of human psychology, “La Bête Humaine” is also a compelling study of class and power dynamics in early 20th-century France.
The film depicts the harsh realities of life for workers on the railway, and the corruption and abuse of power that takes place behind the scenes.
“La Bête Humaine” is a beautifully shot and emotionally powerful film that showcases Jean Renoir’s skill as a director.
The film’s exploration of human nature and the dark forces that lie within us have made it a classic of French cinema and a must-see for fans of psychological drama.
![La Bête humaine [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41oBjP2HLCS.jpg)
6. La Marseillaise (1938)
“La Marseillaise” is a 1938 French film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of the French Revolution and the events leading up to the storming of the Bastille.
It follows the experiences of a variety of characters, from aristocrats to peasants, as they navigate the political and social upheaval of the time.
The film is notable for its use of historical accuracy and attention to detail, and for its ambitious scope in depicting such a pivotal moment in French history. Renoir uses the film to examine the complex political and social forces that drove the revolution, and to offer a nuanced perspective on the various factions and ideologies involved.
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its use of music and dance to convey the emotional state of the characters and to create a sense of energy and excitement.
The film features several musical sequences, including a rousing rendition of the national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” that helps to highlight the sense of national pride and unity that fueled the revolution.
Overall, “La Marseillaise” is a powerful and stirring film that showcases Renoir’s skill as a director and his ability to create compelling stories and characters.
![La Marseillaise [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51SdXoxfXvL.jpg)
7. The Crime of Monsieur Lange (1936)
“The Crime of Monsieur Lange” is a 1936 French film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of a group of workers who take over a failing publishing company and produce a successful series of books, only to be threatened by the return of the company’s corrupt former owner.
The film is a powerful exploration of workers’ rights and the struggle against exploitation. It highlights the importance of collective action and the ways in which workers can come together to create positive change.
At its core, “The Crime of Monsieur Lange” is a film about the power of storytelling. The characters in the film use their imaginations to create a new kind of literature that speaks to the needs and desires of ordinary people.
The film celebrates the importance of creativity and imagination in the face of oppression.
The film’s themes of worker solidarity and resistance against capitalist exploitation have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a timeless classic of French cinema. With its mix of humor, drama, and social commentary, “The Crime of Monsieur Lange” is a must-see for fans of Jean Renoir and fans of politically engaged cinema.
8. The Golden Coach (1952)
“The Golden Coach” is a 1952 French-Italian film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of an actress named Camilla who arrives in Peru to perform in a theater troupe. Camilla is courted by three men, but becomes increasingly disillusioned with their self-absorption and materialism.
The film is visually stunning, with gorgeous sets and costumes that capture the grandeur and excess of the colonial era. It is also notable for its use of music, which plays a central role in the narrative and adds to the film’s emotional power.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B24NaC4fOY
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the tension between artistic and personal fulfillment. Camilla is torn between her desire to create great art and her need for human connection, and the film uses her struggles to examine the complex relationship between creativity and emotional fulfillment.
Overall, “The Golden Coach” is a masterful film that showcases Renoir’s skill as a director and his ability to create memorable characters and stories. It is considered one of the great works of French cinema and an important contribution to the genre of historical drama.
![The Golden Coach (1952) ( Le carrosse d'or ) ( La carrozza d'oro ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.0 Import - Italy ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61fbODVKuKL.jpg)
9. This Land Is Mine (1943)
“This Land Is Mine” is a 1943 American war drama film directed by Jean Renoir. Set during the Nazi occupation of France, the film tells the story of a timid schoolteacher, Albert Lory, who transforms into a hero when he decides to take a stand against the Nazis.
The film is a powerful exploration of resistance and courage in the face of oppression. Through the character of Lory, the film shows how ordinary people can become heroes when they are faced with extraordinary circumstances.
“This Land Is Mine” is also a film about the power of community and collective action. Lory is aided in his fight against the Nazis by a group of neighbors and friends who are also fighting for their freedom.
The film’s themes of resistance, courage, and community have made it a timeless classic. With its powerful performances and expert direction by Jean Renoir, “This Land Is Mine” is a must-see for fans of war dramas and for anyone who believes in the power of standing up for what is right.
10. The River (1951)
“The River” is a 1951 British-Indian film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of an English family living on the banks of the Ganges river in India.
The story is seen through the eyes of their daughter, Harriet, who falls in love with a wounded American veteran and struggles to come to terms with the complexities of love and loss.
The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking cinematography that captures the natural beauty of the Indian landscape.
It is also notable for its exploration of cross-cultural themes, examining the clash of Eastern and Western cultures and the challenges of finding a sense of identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world.
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its use of mythology and symbolism, particularly in its portrayal of the river as a metaphor for the cycle of life and death.
The film’s dreamlike quality and poetic language add to its emotional power, creating a deeply moving and haunting experience.
Overall, “The River” is a masterful film that showcases Renoir’s skill as a director and his ability to create complex, multi-layered narratives. It is considered one of the great works of British-Indian cinema and an important contribution to the genre of coming-of-age drama.
11. The Southerner (1945)
“The Southerner” is a 1945 American drama film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of a family of poor farmers who move from Texas to a new farm in Louisiana, where they face numerous challenges as they try to make a living from the land.
The film is a poignant exploration of the struggles of rural life, capturing the beauty and hardship of life on the land.
Renoir’s direction and the stunning black-and-white cinematography combine to create a powerful and evocative portrait of life in the American South.
At its core, “The Southerner” is a film about the importance of community and the connections between people.
The family in the film relies on the help and support of their neighbors to survive, and the film celebrates the importance of working together and caring for one another.
“The Southerner” is a masterpiece of American cinema, showcasing Jean Renoir’s skill as a director and his deep understanding of the human condition.
With its stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, the film is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and for anyone interested in the complexities of life in rural America.
![The Southerner [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61GJkSJhf7L.jpg)
12. Boudu Saved from Drowning (1932)
“Boudu Saved from Drowning” is a 1932 French film directed by Jean Renoir. The film tells the story of a Parisian bookseller named Edouard Lestingois, who rescues a homeless man named Boudu from drowning in the Seine.
Edouard takes Boudu into his home, but quickly realizes that Boudu is a free spirit who is not interested in conforming to bourgeois norms.
The film is notable for its social commentary and satirical portrayal of French society. It explores the tension between the working class and the middle class, as well as the challenges of living in a rapidly changing world.
The film’s dark humor and biting critique of bourgeois values add to its emotional power and create a deeply thought-provoking experience.
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the concept of freedom. Boudu is a symbol of freedom and the rejection of social norms, while Edouard represents the opposite: a man bound by convention and respectability.
The clash between these two characters highlights the difficulties of balancing individualism and social responsibility in a modern, urban society.
Overall, “Boudu Saved from Drowning” is a masterful film that showcases Renoir’s skill as a director and his ability to create complex, nuanced characters and stories. I
13. Swamp Water (1941)
“Swamp Water” is a 1941 American drama film directed by Jean Renoir. The film is based on the novel “Buck Fever” by Walter Van Tilburg Clark, and tells the story of a young man named Ben who is falsely accused of a crime and forced to flee into the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia.
The film is a powerful exploration of the beauty and danger of the natural world. Renoir’s direction and the stunning cinematography capture the eerie, haunting atmosphere of the swamp, making it a character in its own right.
At its core, “Swamp Water” is a film about redemption and the possibility of second chances. Ben is given a chance to start over in the swamp, and the film explores the ways in which he is able to find a new sense of purpose and belonging in this new, wild environment.
The film also features a strong ensemble cast, including Walter Brennan and Anne Baxter, who deliver memorable performances that help bring the story to life.
With its evocative visuals and powerful storytelling, “Swamp Water” is a must-see for fans of Jean Renoir and for anyone interested in classic American cinema.
14. Madame Bovary (1934)
“Madame Bovary” is a 1934 French drama film directed by Jean Renoir, based on the classic novel by Gustave Flaubert. The film tells the story of Emma Bovary, a young woman who dreams of a life of luxury and excitement, but finds herself trapped in a stifling marriage to a dull provincial doctor.
The film is a powerful exploration of the human desire for passion and excitement, and the tragic consequences that can arise when those desires are thwarted. Renoir’s direction is masterful, bringing out the nuances and complexities of the characters and their relationships.
At its core, “Madame Bovary” is a film about the tension between fantasy and reality, and the ways in which our dreams and desires can lead us astray. Emma’s quest for a more fulfilling life ultimately leads to her downfall, and the film serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition.
The film features stunning performances from its cast, including Valentine Tessier in the lead role of Emma Bovary, as well as leading French actors like Pierre Renoir and Marcelle Chantal.
With its powerful storytelling, expert direction, and superb performances, “Madame Bovary” is a must-see for fans of classic French cinema and for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience.
15. The Diary of a Chambermaid (1946)
“The Diary of a Chambermaid” is a 1946 French drama film directed by Jean Renoir. Based on the novel of the same name by Octave Mirbeau, the film tells the story of a young chambermaid named Célestine who works for a wealthy French family in the early 20th century.
The film is a powerful exploration of class and power in French society, as seen through the eyes of a woman who is struggling to find her place in the world.
Renoir’s direction is masterful, bringing out the complexities of the characters and the social structures that govern their lives.
At its core, “The Diary of a Chambermaid” is a film about the struggle for individual freedom and autonomy in a society that often seeks to control and oppress. Célestine’s journey of self-discovery and rebellion against her employers is a powerful and moving testament to the human spirit.
The film also features stunning performances from its cast, including Paulette Goddard in the lead role, as well as Burgess Meredith and Hurd Hatfield.
With its nuanced portrayal of social class, complex characters, and expert direction, “The Diary of a Chambermaid” is a must-see for fans of Jean Renoir and for anyone interested in classic French cinema.
3 Characteristics of Jean Renoir Films
Jean Renoir was a master filmmaker who created a diverse range of films throughout his career. Here are three characteristics that are often seen in his work:
Humanism: One of the defining characteristics of Renoir’s films is their deeply humanistic perspective. He had a keen eye for the complexities and contradictions of the human experience, and his films often explore the relationships between people from different walks of life.
His works are known for their empathy and compassion for all of their characters, regardless of their flaws or social status.
Realism: Renoir was also known for his realistic approach to filmmaking. He often used naturalistic settings and everyday situations to tell his stories, and he encouraged his actors to give understated, naturalistic performances.
His films often dealt with social issues and were grounded in a deep understanding of the historical and cultural context in which they were set.
Satire: While Renoir’s films are often deeply serious and humanistic, he was also a master of satire.
His films frequently used irony and humor to critique the social and political structures of his time. Renoir was known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary, and he used his films to explore the absurdities and contradictions of human society.
3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Jean Renoir Films
There are many reasons why you should watch Jean Renoir films, but here are three of the most compelling:
Masterful storytelling: Renoir was a masterful storyteller who had a keen eye for the complexities of the human experience.
His films often explore the relationships between people from different walks of life, and they are known for their empathy and compassion for all of their characters. Renoir’s films are deeply engaging and thought-provoking, and they offer a unique perspective on the human condition.
Historical and cultural significance: Jean Renoir was one of the most important filmmakers of the 20th century, and his work had a profound impact on the history of cinema.
His films are not only great works of art in their own right, but they also offer a fascinating window into the social and political context of their time.
Many of his films deal with issues that are still relevant today, and they offer a valuable perspective on the human experience in different historical and cultural contexts.
Technical innovation: Jean Renoir was also a technical innovator who helped to revolutionize the art of filmmaking. He was one of the pioneers of location shooting and naturalistic lighting, and he was known for his use of long takes and deep focus cinematography.
His technical innovations helped to establish the visual language of modern cinema, and his influence can be seen in the work of countless filmmakers who came after him.
Watching Renoir’s films is not only a chance to appreciate great storytelling, but also to witness the evolution of the art of filmmaking itself.
Best Jean Renoir Films – Wrapping Up
Jean Renoir was a master filmmaker who created a diverse range of films throughout his career. He was known for his humanistic approach to storytelling, his realistic style of filmmaking, and his incisive commentary on society and culture. Some of his most famous films include:
The Rules of the Game (1939): This is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. It’s a biting satire of the French upper classes on the eve of World War II, and it’s known for its deep understanding of human relationships and its expertly crafted ensemble cast.
Grand Illusion (1937): This is a powerful anti-war film that explores the relationships between French and German prisoners of war during World War I. It’s known for its humanistic approach to storytelling and its deeply empathetic portrayal of its characters.
La Bête Humaine (1938): This is a gripping crime drama that explores the dark side of human desire. It’s known for its expertly crafted tension and its nuanced exploration of the human psyche.
The River (1951): This is a beautiful and lyrical film that explores the rhythms of life in rural India. It’s known for its breathtaking cinematography and its expertly crafted exploration of the themes of adolescence and family.
