young audience (8)

When it comes to finding French films or TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available on streaming platforms in the US can be overwhelming. That's why, each month, CinéSchool program manager and all-around film expert Nathalie Charles puts together a list of the top French content for kids and teens that is available online. While some films or series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and more still are great for the whole family to enjoy! So, what's on this month as we celebrate Earth Day and our beautiful planet?
 
Girl jumping with a cat in Paris

April and the Extraordinary World (Avril et le monde truqué)
Directed by Franck Ekinci and Christian Desmares, 2015, 1h45, PG / recommended for ages 9+

Paris, 1941. A family of scientists is on the brink of discovering a powerful longevity serum when all of a sudden a mysterious force abducts them, leaving their young daughter April behind. Ten years later, April lives alone with her dear cat, Darwin, and carries on her family’s research in secret. But she soon finds herself at the center of a shadowy and far-reaching conspiracy, and on the run from government agents, bicycle-powered dirigibles and cyborg rat spies. Undaunted, she continues her quest to find her parents and discover the truth behind their disappearance. 

Available on iTunes | GooglePlay | AmazonPrime | Vudu | YouTube | Redbox | Microsoft

animals in classroom

Ozie Boo! Save The Planet (Ozie Boo ! Protège ta planète)
Preschool TV show | Recommended for ages 2+

A soft and entertaining introduction to Ecology for the preschoolers, with the Ozie Boo Team and their friends, with an optimistic touch and high quality real world images. The Ozie Boo Team goes to school like all children around of the world… but their school is the Nature School. The “Ozie School”, built completely out of ice and ice cubes, with frozen benches and pristine desks, is the North Pole school where Nelly, Ned, Fred, Ted, Ed, our energetic and curious little penguins, ask the same questions all children ask, with four major themes: pollution, natural resources and climate, species in danger, and protection of the Planet.

Available on AmazonPrime | Roku Channel | YouTube Channel | Tivi5 Monde

Becoming Cousteau

Becoming Cousteau
By Liz Garbus, Documentary, 2021, 1h34, PG-13 / Recommended for ages 14+ (brief strong language, some disturbing images)

Adventurer, filmmaker, inventor, author, unlikely celebrity and conservationist: For over four decades, Jacques-Yves Cousteau and his explorations under the ocean became synonymous with a love of science and the natural world. As he learned to protect the environment, he brought the whole world with him, sounding alarms more than 50 years ago about the warming seas and our planet’s vulnerability.

Available on Disney+ 

reindeers in snow

A Reindeer’s Journey (Aïlo : Une odyssée en Laponie)
Directed by Guillaume Maidatchevsky, 2018, 1h20, PG / recommended for ages 8+

Meet Ailo, a newborn reindeer who embarks on an incredible odyssey with the help of his mother. Narrated by Donald Southerland and set against the frozen majesty of northern Finland, their journey is an uplifting story for the whole family.

Available on Vudu | Tubi | GooglePlay | AmazonPrime | iTunes | Microsoft | FuboTV | Crackle | Plex | Redbox

A red turtle in the sea closed to a man

The Red Turtle (La Tortue rouge)
Directed by Michael Dudok de Wit, 2016, 1h20, PG, Belgium-France-Japan | recommended for ages 9+

This masterfully animated fantasy film tells the story of a man shipwrecked at sea who becomes stranded on a beautiful but desolate island. He learns to live in isolation, seemingly tormented in his efforts to escape the island by a giant red turtle. Miraculously, he soon comes upon a young woman also lost at sea and they create a family together.

Available on Vudu | GooglePlay | AmazonPrime | YouTube | Microsoft | iTunes | Spectrum

a ladybug and black ant

Minuscule, Valley of the Lost Ants (Minuscule – La vallée des fourmis perdues)
Directed by Hélène Giraud and Thomas Szabo, 2013, 1h29, France-Belgium | Recommended for all ages

In a peaceful little valley, the remains of an abandoned picnic sparks warfare between two tribes of rival ants. At stake, a box of sugar. So when a bold young ladybug finds herself caught in the middle of the battle, she befriends one the black ants, Mandible, whom together must protect the anthill from the encroaching red ant warriors, led by the fearful Butor.

Available on iTunes | AmazonPrime | YouTube | Microsoft | Vudu | GooglePlay

Read more…
When it comes to finding French films or TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available on streaming platforms in the US can be overwhelming. That's why, each month, Villa Albertine's CinéSchool program manager and all-around film expert Nathalie Charles puts together a list of the top French content for kids and teens that is available online. While some films or series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and more still are great for the whole family to enjoy! So, what's on this month?
 
sun waking up a blue character (cartoon)

La Fête de la Francophonie

To celebrate La Francophonie, IFcinéma à la carte offers a selection of French shorts films " En Sortant de l'école - Robert Desnos" available online and for free from March 1-31, 2022 :

Bonsoir tout le monde by Kathleen Ponsard ; Couchée by Debora Cheyenne Curchon ; Couplet de la rue de Bagnolet by Quentin Guichoux ; Dans un petit bateau by Charlotte Cambon ; Demi-rêve by Gabrielle Sibieude ; Il était une feuille by Anaïs Scheeck ; J’ai tant rêvé de toi by Emma Vakarelova ; La Grenouille aux souliers percés by Juliette Cuisinier ; Le Salsifis du Bengale by Raphaëlle Stolz ; Le Zèbre by Viviane Boyer-Araujo ;  Les Quatre sans cou by Alix Fizet ; Papier buvard by Marine Laclotte ; and Paris by Justine Vuyksteker.

a mouse on a red rain boot (animated image)

The New York International Children's Film Festival (March 4 - April 3, 2022)

Since 1997, New York Int’l Children’s Film Festival has become the largest and most prestigious festival for children’s film in North America. While the 2022 Festival will take place in New York City, all programming for younger audiences will be available online and nationwide from March 4 through April 3. 

- French short film Step by Step presented in SHORTS FOR TOTS program (redommended ages 3+)
- French short films Mido and the InstrumalsA Lynx in the TownAthleticus: Sled, and Athleticus: Guides presented in BONUS: SHORTS FOR TOTS 2021 program (redommended ages 3+)

a white dog and young boy in the mountains

Belle and Sebastian (Belle et Sébastien)

Directed by Nicolas Vanier, 2013, 1h44, France / recommended for ages 10+

Based on the beloved children's book, this exciting tale set in the picturesque French Alps follows the friendship of a 6-year-old boy and a stray dog who prove to be heroes when they help defend their occupied village from the Nazis.

Available on Hoopla | tubi | Kanopy | AmazonPrime | RedBox | iTunes | Plex | Film Movement Plus | GooglePlay | Roku Channel
 

If you like this film, you may like the entire series:

Belle and Sebastian: The Adventure Continues (Belle et Sébastien, l’aventure continue)
Directed by Christian Duguay, 2015, 1h37, PG / recommended for ages 9+

Available on Hoopla | Vudu | AmazonVideo | GooglePlay | iTunes | Microsoft

Belle and Sebastian 3: The Last Chapter (Belle et Sébastien 3 : Le dernier chapitre) 
Directed by Clovis Cornillac, 2017, 1h37 / recommended for ages 10+

Available on Hoopla | GooglePlay | iTunes

Animated mushrooms

Mush-Mush and the Mushables - Season 1 (Mush-Mush & les Champotes)
Created by Elfriede de Rooster and directed by Joeri Christiaen, 2020

Animated Preschool TV Series, France-Belgium-UK / recommended for ages 4+

Mush-Mush & the Mushables follows the comedy adventures of the Mushable community as together they put the fun back into fungi! As pocket-sized Guardians of the Forest, each Mushable has a special gift. While Mush-Mush can communicate with nature, Lilit shines bright like a light and Chep has an impressive memory. As they get to know their talents and their limits, the Mushables find there is still a lot to discover about growing up…

Available on Cartoon Network and HBO Max (in English)

Animated wolf in winter

White Fang (Croc-Blanc)

Directed by Alexandre Espigares, 2018, 1h27, France-Luxembourg / recommended for ages 10+

Based on the timeless novel by Jack London, White Fang is the story of a proud and courageous wolfdog, fighting for his survival among the Canadian wilderness, the cities suddenly became wealthy during the gold rush in the Klondike 1890s. Born in the forest of a sled dog mother who fled their masters, White Fang will overcome challenges imposed not by the hostility of nature itself, but by his encounter with the men who shaped these austere regions.

Available on Netflix (#tip: make sure to click on "Subtitles & Audio" and select audio in French!)

 

Read more…
When it comes to finding French films or TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available on streaming platforms in the US can be overwhelming. That's why, each month, Villa Albertine's CinéSchool program manager Nathalie Charles puts together a list of the top French content for kids and teens that is available online. While some films or series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and more still are great for the whole family to enjoy! So, what's on this month?
 
 
A boy and a girl on a wagon

MyFrenchFilmFestival (until February 15, 2022)

MyFrenchFilmFestival.com is a worldwide French film festival presented by Unifrance, and whose goal is to shine a spotlight on new generation French-language filmmakers.

Don't miss their Kids section featuring animated movie Calamity (1.99€) and shorts TreasureMido and the InstrumalsEye for an Eye, and Astralium (all the shorts are available for free!)!

Available online here and also on several US platforms/channels.

 

Bears and little girl in a circus

Animation First Festival (Online & Nationwide: February 14-21, 2022)

Animation First Festival, presented by the French Institute Alliance Francaise (FIAF), celebrates the enduring legacy and trailblazing innovation of French animation. While presented in person in New York City, the Festival's fifth edition will be also available online for a nationwide audience.

Their young audience selection includes The Bears' Famous Invasion of SicilyThe TowerEx-Aequo!Fresh Out of School - Andrée ChedidThe Mysteries of Paris, and Wonderful Wacky Wolves.

Available online here.

 

a mouse and two owls on a branch in winter

The Short Story of a Fox and a Mouse
Directed by Camille Chaix, Kevin Roger, Hugo Jean, Marie Pillier, Juliette Jourdan, 2015, 6 min. / Rated G

A lonesome fox hunts a mouse and their relationship will evolve as two owls interfere with the hunt.

Available here.

 

Students in classroom

The 400 Blows (Les Quatre cent coups)
Directed by Francois Truffaut, 1959, 1h59, recommended for ages 12+

François Truffaut’s first feature is also his most personal. Told through the eyes of Truffaut’s cinematic counterpart, Antoine Doinel (Jean-Pierre Léaud), The 400 Blows sensitively re-creates the trials of Truffaut’s own childhood, unsentimentally portraying aloof parents, oppressive teachers, and petty crime.

Available on The Criterion Channel | Kanopy | HBOMax | Amazon Video | Vudu | YouTube | GooglePlay | iTunes

 

Snakes in the desert

Sahara
Directed by Pierre Coré, 2017, 1h25, France-Canada, recommended for ages 7+

When his new love is captured by an evil snake charmer, a young cobra and his scorpion best friend set out across the desert on a wild rescue mission.

Available on Netflix (#tip: make sure to click on "Subtitles & Audio" and select audio in French!)

 

Read more…
When it comes to finding French films or TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available on streaming platforms in the US can be overwhelming. That's why, each month, CinéSchool program manager and all-around film expert Nathalie Charles puts together a list of the top French content for kids and teens that is available online. While some films or series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and more still are great for the whole family to enjoy! So, what's on this month?
 
Two persons in a store

© The Melies Mystery (HBO Max)

The Méliès Mystery (Le Mystère Méliès)
Directed by Serge Bromberg and Eric Lange
2021, 58 min., Rated TV-PG / Recommended for ages 11+

A documentary detailing the process of restoring 270 of the 520 lost films of pioneering director Georges Méliès. Hailed as the inventor of special effects, he shot more than 500 amazing films between 1896 and 1913. By 1923, he was bankrupt and burned his enrapturing works... Thanks to international archives and the negatives, discover his movies in their original beauty. 

Available on HBO Max.

Animated Dinosaurs

© Gigantosaurus (Cyber Group Studios)

Gigantosaurus
Animated TV series / Recommended for ages 5+

Four young dinosaurs explore a prehistoric world of adventure, where the most exciting mystery of all is Gigantosaurus, the biggest and fiercest dinosaur anyone has ever seen!

Available on Disney+ | Netflix (#tip: make sure to click on "Subtitles & Audio" and select audio in French!)

Singing bird

© Maestro (Collectif Illogic)

Maestro
By collectrif Illogic, 2019, 2min., France / Recommended for ages 3+

Maestro is a short film that features an animal orchestra interpreting a nocturnal opera.

Available on Vimeo
You can find a video of how they made the film here.

Two children on a horse in the mountains

© On the Way to School

On the Way to School (Sur le chemin de l’école)
Directed by Pascal Plisson, 2015, 1h17, PG / recommended for ages 8+

The story of four students from different parts of the world who travel long distances to attend school.

Available on Hoopla | Kanopy | SundanceNow | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play | Vudu | iTunes | Microsoft

 

Read more…
World Environment Day is held each year on June 5. To celebrate our beautiful planet and excite children about the environment, we have curated a selection of 10 French movies, from documentaries discussing environmental issues to animated films that answer ecological questions. We hope the entire family will love these films!

Amazonia
Directed by Thierry Ragobert, 2013, 1h26, PG / recommended for ages 8+

When a capuchin monkey raised in captivity becomes stranded in the Amazon rainforest, he must learn to avoid predators and rediscover his natural instincts to survive.

Available on Vudu | The Roku Channel | YouTube | GooglePlay | iTunes | Amazon Video

Antarctica: Ice and Sky (La Glace et le ciel)
Directed by Luc Jacquet, 2015, 1h29 / recommended for ages 10+

From the Oscar-winning director of March of the Penguins, Antarctica: Ice and Sky is an epic tale of scientific adventure and a stirring personal memoir that recounts the remarkable life's journey of Claude Lorius, the first scientist to discover conclusive evidence of man-made climate change deep beneath the Earth's surface.

Available on Kanopy | Music Box Direct | Amazon Prime | YouTube | GooglePlay | Vudu | FandangoNOW | iTunes

April and the Extraordinary World (Avril et le monde truqué)
Directed by Franck Ekinci and Christian Desmares, 2015, 1h45, PG / recommended for ages 9+

Paris, 1941. A family of scientists is on the brink of discovering a powerful longevity serum when all of a sudden a mysterious force abducts them, leaving their young daughter April behind. Ten years later, April lives alone with her dear cat, Darwin, and carries on her family’s research in secret. But she soon finds herself at the center of a shadowy and far-reaching conspiracy, and on the run from government agents, bicycle-powered dirigibles and cyborg rat spies. Undaunted, she continues her quest to find her parents and discover the truth behind their disappearance. 

Available on Vudu | Redbox | YouTube | GooglePlay | Microsoft | Amazon Video | iTunes | FandangoNOW

A Reindeer’s Journey (Aïlo : Une odyssée en Laponie)
Directed by Guillaume Maidatchevsky, 2018, 1h20, PG / recommended for ages 8+

Meet Ailo, a newborn reindeer who embarks on an incredible odyssey with the help of his mother. Narrated by Donald Southerland and set against the frozen majesty of northern Finland, their journey is an uplifting story for the whole family.

Available on Vudu | YouTube | GooglePlay | Amazon Video | FandangoNOW | Microsoft | DirecTV

Bonobos: Back to the Wild (Bonobos)
Directed by Alain Tixier, 2015, 1h24 / recommended for ages 6+

The plight of the endangered Bonobos of Africa – mankind’s closest genetic relative – are presented in this critically praised, epic nature documentary.

Available on Amazon Prime | Vudu | YouTube | GooglePlay

Mia and the Migoo (Mia et le Migou)
Directed by Jacques-Rémy Girerd, 2008, 1h31, PG / recommended for ages 6+

Mia sets out on a cross continent journey, though mountains and jungles in search of her father, who has been trapped in a landslide at a construction site on a remote tropical lake. In the middle of the lake stands the ancient Tree of Life, watched over by innocent, bumbling forest spirits called the Migoo. The Migoo have been disrupting the construction to protect this sacred site – and now together with Mia they join in a fight to find Mia’s father and save the Tree, with the future of life on Earth hanging in the balance.

Available on Amazon Video | Google Play | iTunes | YouTube | Vudu

Mia and the White Lion (Mia et le lion blanc)
Directed by Gilles De Maistre, 2018, 1h38, PG / recommended for ages 8+

A young girl and her beautiful white lion Charlie set off on an epic adventure across the wild African savanna in search for another land where Charlie can live out his life safe and free.

Available on Hoopla | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play | FandangoNow | iTunes | Vudu

Oceans (Océans)
Directed by Jacques Perrin & Jacques Cluzaud, 2010, 1h37, PG / recommended for ages 8+

Stunning images await as you journey into the depths of a wonderland filled with mystery, beauty and power. It is an unprecedented look at the lives of these illusive deepwater creatures through their own eyes. Incredible state-of-the-art underwater filmmaking will take your breath away as you migrate with whales, swim alongside a great white shark and race with dolphins at play. Filled with adventure, comedy and drama, Oceans is a fascinating and thought-provoking experience you'll never forget.

Available on Disney + | Vudu | Amazon Video | YouTube | GooglePlay | iTunes | FandangoNOW | DirecTV | Microsoft

Song of the Sea (Le Chant de la mer)
Directed by Tomm Moore, 2014, 1h33, PG / recommended for ages 8+

Based on the Irish legend of the Selkies, Song of the Sea tells the story of the last seal-child, Saoirse, and her brother Ben, who go on an epic journey to save the world of magic and discover secrets of their past. Pursued by the owl witch, Macha, and a host of ancient and mythical creatures, Saoirse and Ben race against time to awaken Saoirse’s powers and keep the spirit world from disappearing forever.

Available on Redbox | iTunes | YouTube | GooglePlay | Vudu | Amazon Video | AMC On Demand | DirecTV | Microsoft

The Red Turtle (La Tortue rouge)
Directed by 
Michael Dudok de Wit, 2016, 1h20, PG / recommended for ages 9+

This masterfully animated fantasy film tells the story of a man shipwrecked at sea who becomes stranded on a beautiful but desolate island. He learns to live in isolation, seemingly tormented in his efforts to escape the island by a giant red turtle. Miraculously, he soon comes upon a young woman also lost at sea and they create a family together.

Available on Vudu | GooglePlay | Amazon Video | YouTube | Microsoft

Read more…

During this stay-at-home period, it's impossible not to cave and let our kids watch TV sometimes! 

While some series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and still others may be silly enough to make the whole family laugh (and let us be frank, we all need it)!

When it comes to choosing TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available can be overwhelming, so we've gathered a list of great French TV series for kids ages 6 and above that are available now on U.S. online streaming platforms.

For preschoolers, you can check out our list of French TV shows available here. And if you’re looking for French movies to watch at night all together as a family, here is a great list too!

Code Lyoko
Recommended for ages 7+

A group of teenagers who travel to the virtual world of Lyoko battles against a malignant artificial intelligence known as X.A.N.A. which threatens Earth with powers to access the real world and cause trouble.

Available on Amazon Prime

Grizzy & The Lemmings (Grizzy et les Lemmings)
Recommended for ages 6+

Strong, whip-smart Grizzy rules a Canadian forest, where he has his paws full with a family of frolicsome lemmings.

Available on Netflix

Heidi
Recommended for ages 6+

Heidi is a happy, talkative 8-year-old orphan who lives with her grandfather in the idyllic scenery of the Swiss Alps. Heidi makes friends quickly, and everyone knows they can always rely on her for help.

Available on YouTube | iTunes | Google Play

Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir (Miraculous, les aventures de Ladybug & Chat Noir)
Recommended for all ages 7+

When evil arises, Marinette transforms into her secret superhero persona Ladybug, while Adrien transforms into his superhero persona Cat Noir, using powerful objects known as the Miraculous. Oblivious to each other's true identities, the two work together to protect Paris from the mysterious villain Hawk Moth.

Available on Netflix

Oggy and the Cockroaches (Oggy et les Cafards)
Recommended for ages 7+

Wimpy blue cat Oggy would like nothing more than to snooze, but he’s constantly bothered by the three ugly cockroaches who have invaded his home.

Available on Netflix

Pirata & Capitano
Recommended for ages 6+

Pirata & Capitano is all about never-ending quest for treasures, with great adventures, fun and team spirit.

Available on YouTube

Rabbids Invasion (Les Lapins Crétins : Invasion)
Recommended for ages 7+

When rambunctious Rabbids invade Earth, all havoc breaks loose as they fight an evil foe and embark on adventures in their yellow submarine.

Available on Netflix | Hulu | Amazon Video | Google Play | Vudu | YouTube

Seven & Me (Sept nains et moi)
Recommended for ages 9+

Snow and Camilla are excited to meet a new student whose family lives in a castle. But the dwarfs see this “Prince Charming” as a threat.

Available on Netflix

Shuriken School
Recommended for ages 6+

Shuriken School follows the extraordinary adventures of a 10-year-old hero Eizan Kaburagi and his friends during their first year at an under-funded ninja school.

Available on Amazon Video | Google Play | iTunes | YouTube

The Jungle Bunch (Les As de la jungle)
Recommended for ages 6+

Inside of the jungle, if there's a problem or an injustice to fix, no worry: just pull the signal of the Jungle Bunch and they will rush to the rescue! Maurice, the penguin-tiger, best known as "the big warrior tiger" is always ready to lead the rest of the bunch in a new adventure.

Available on Hulu | YouTube TV | Fubo

The Long Long Holiday (Les grandes grandes vacances)
Recommended for ages 7+

Young siblings learn about country life and surviving Nazi occupation when World War II breaks out while they're visiting grandparents in Normandy.

Available on Amazon Prime

Wakfu
Recommended for ages 11+

In a fantasy world, a mysterious figure leaves a baby boy with a retired bounty hunter in a small village with instructions to raise him until the time is right for him to find his biological family. Years later, that boy named Yugo discovers he has powerful magic abilities using the power of Wakfu even as his village is threatened.

Available on Netflix

If you like it, you can watch also:
Wakfu: The Quest for the Six Eliatrope Dofus - available on Netflix

Zak Jinks
Recommended for ages 6+

The hilarious day-in-the-life of a mischievous and loveable 8-year-old boy! Zak is an ordinary, joyful and very optimistic boy who happens to be eminently likeable!

Available on Amazon Prime | The Roku Channel | Apple TV

Zak Storm (Zak Storm, super pirate)
Recommended for ages 7+

Teen surfer Zak Storm is mysteriously transported to the Bermuda Triangle, where he becomes the captain of a magical ship full of misfits.

Available on Netflix

Zig & Sharko
Recommended for ages 7+

Zig, an island-bound hyena, will do anything to get his paws on Marina the mermaid, but her devoted pal Sharko always comes to her rescue in time.

Available on Netflix

Zorro – The Chronicles (Les Chroniques de Zorro)
Recommended for ages 6+

Young Don Diego faces the greatest challenge of his life as he fights for justice against numerous unscrupulous tyrants! But Zorro never kills: he simply ridicules his opponents to teach them a lesson, and signs his deeds with his trademark Z!

Available on Hulu

And don't forget Tivi5MONDE!

TiVi5MONDE is America's first and only 24/7 French language children's network delivering cartoons, educational shows, animations and teen series - the ideal destination for the kids ages 4- 12! Kids' favorites include CalimeroOui Oui, Il était une fois...L'HommeBelle et SébastienChasseurs de dragons... Visit www.tivi5mondeusa.com to learn more.

Read more…

In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, many of us are home-bound with our kids. While we all try to find activities and great content to keep them busy, we thought you might enjoy a few recommendations of movies to watch together.

Below, we've rounded up a list of French family-friendly flicks available on U.S. streaming platforms that both kids and parents would like!

A Bag of Marble (Un Sac de billes)
Directed by Christian Duguay, 2017, 1h52, recommended for ages 10+

Joseph and Maurice are the sons of Roman, the local barber. At ages 10 and 12, the boys have so little understanding of the persecution of Jews that Joseph thinks nothing of swapping his yellow star for a bag of marbles....

Available on Kanopy | Showtime | DirecTV | Fubo | Vudu | YouTube | Google Play

Asterix at the Olympic Games (Astérix aux Jeux Olympiques)
Directed by Frederic Forestier, 2008, 1h57, recommended for ages 9+

In their new adventures, Asterix and Obelix come to the aid of their friend Alafolix, who must fight Brutus, Cesar’s son, to win both the Olympic Games and the hand of beautiful Irina. But heinous Brutus is determined to beat the Gaul and take his father’s place.

Available on Amazon Video | Vudu | Google Play | YouTube | Hoopla | iTunes

Belle and Sebastian (Belle et Sébastien)
Directed by Nicolas Vanier, 2013, 1h44, recommended for ages 10+

Based on the beloved children's book, this exciting tale set in the picturesque French Alps follows the friendship of a 6-year-old boy and a stray dog who prove to be heroes when they help defend their occupied village from the Nazis.

Available on Amazon Prime | Hoopla | tubi | iTunes | FandangoNow | YouTube | Google Play

If you like it, you can watch the entire series:

Belle and Sebastian: The Adventure Continues (Belle et Sébastien, l’aventure continue) by Christian Duguay, 2015, 1h37, PG / recommended for ages 8+
Available on FandangoNow | YouTube | Google Play | iTunes

Belle and Sebastian 3: The Last Chapter (Belle et Sébastien 3 : Le dernier chapitre) by Clovis Cornillac, 2017, 1h37, recommended for ages 9+
Available on FandangoNow | Google Play | YouTube

Boule & Bill
Directed by Franck Magnier & Alexandre Charlot, 2013, 1h22, PG / recommended for ages 8+

Buddy is an abandoned young cocker spaniel waiting dejectedly in his cage for a kind, new owner to adopt him. Suddenly, Billy, a little boy whose hair is as red as Buddy's, appears. It's love at first sight and the beginning of a great friendship. But for Billy's parents, this is where the trouble begins.

Available on iTunes | Google Play | Vudu | YouTube

Christmas & Co (Santa & Cie)
Directed by Alain Chabat, 2017, 1h39, recommended for ages 7+

Christmas Eve is right around the corner, when everything goes haywire. Santa's 92,000 elves all fall ill and collapse... Simultaneously! Santa panics and worries about who will make the toys for all the kids all around the world? He has no choice! Santa and his reindeer must go to Earth in search of a cure. But once he gets there, Mr. Claus will need some help to save the magic of Christmas...

Available on YouTube | Google Play | iTunes

Donkey Skin (Peau d'âne)
Directed by Jacques Demy, 1970, 1h30, PG / recommended for ages 6+

The King seeks the hand of his own daughter in marriage after promising his dying wife to only wed a woman more beautiful than herself. Listening to her fairy godmother, the frightened Princess flees and hides, disguised as a scullery maid, while wearing the skin of a donkey. As a visiting prince passes by, he asks Donkey Skin to bake him a cake. She decides to bake him a Love Cake, in which she hides a ring…

Available on The Criterion Channel

Houba! On the Trail of the Marsupilami (Sur la piste du Marsupilami)
Directed by Alain Chabat, 2012, 1h40, PG-13 / recommended for ages 10+

When reporter Dan Geraldo arrives in Palombia to hunt for a scoop, he never suspects that he is about to make an incredible discovery... With his resourceful local guide Pablito, Dan has one surprise after another during a thrilling adventure that allows him to bring the world some spectacular news: the Marsupilami, a mythical and mischievous animal, really does exist! You too will believe in furry tails!

Available on iTunes | Google Play | YouTube

Lucky Luke
Directed by James Huth, 2009, 1h43, PG-13 / recommended for ages 12+

During his mission in Daisy Town, the city where he grew up, Lucky Luke is going to come across Billy the Kid, Calamity Jane, Pat Poker, Jesse James and sexy Belle.

Available on YouTube | iTunes | Google Play

Mia and the White Lion (Mia et le lion blanc)
Directed by Gilles De Maistre, 2018, 1h38, PG / recommended for ages 8+

A young girl and her beautiful white lion Charlie set off on an epic adventure across the wild African savanna in search for another land where Charlie can live out his life safe and free.

Available on Hoopla | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play | FandangoNow | iTunes | Vudu

Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday (Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot)
Directed by Jacques Tati, 1953, 1h27, recommended for ages 7+

Monsieur Hulot, Jacques Tati’s endearing clown, takes a holiday at a seaside resort, where his presence provokes one catastrophe after another. Tati’s masterpiece of gentle slapstick is a series of effortlessly well-choreographed sight gags involving dogs, boats, and firecrackers; it was the first entry in the Hulot series and the film that launched its maker to international stardom.

Available on The Criterion Channel | Kanopy | Amazon Video | iTunes

Nicholas on Holiday (Les Vacances du Petit Nicolas)
Directed by Laurent Tirard, 2014, 1h37, recommended for ages 7+

Nicholas, his parents and Granny hit the road, heading for the sea, and a stay in the Beau-Rivage Hotel. At the beach, Nicholas wastes little time making new friends, and the group has many adventures in this family…

Available on Kanopy | Amazon Prime | iTunes | YouTube | Google Play | Vudu

On the Way to School (Sur le chemin de l’école)
Directed by Pascal Plisson, 2015, 1h17, PG / recommended for ages 6+

The story of four students from different parts of the world that travel long distances to attend school.

Available on Hoopla | Kanopy | SundanceNow | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play | Vudu | iTunes

School of Life (L’école buissonnière)
Directed by Nicolas Vanier, 2017, 1h56, PG-13 / recommended for ages 8+

Paul has only ever had one and the same horizon: the high walls of an orphanage in the Parisian working class suburbs. Entrusted to Celestine and her husband, Borel, the city child, recalcitrant and stubborn, arrives in a mysterious and disturbing world, that of a soverign and wild region. In the heart of a fairytale Sologne, Paul will learn about life, and also about the forest and its secrets.

Available on Kanopy | Amazon Video | Vudu | Google Play | YouTube | iTunes

The 400 Blows (Les Quatre cent coups)
Directed by Francois Truffaut, 1959, 1h59, recommended for ages 8+

François Truffaut’s first feature is also his most personal. Told through the eyes of Truffaut’s cinematic counterpart, Antoine Doinel (Jean-Pierre Léaud), THE 400 BLOWS sensitively re-creates the trials of Truffaut’s own childhood, unsentimentally portraying aloof parents, oppressive teachers, and petty crime.

Available on The Criterion Channel | Kanopy | Amazon Video | Vudu | YouTube | Google Play | iTunes

The Bear (L’Ours)
Directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, 1988, 1h40, PG / recommended for ages 11+

Acclaimed account of an orphaned grizzly cub and a wounded Kodiak bear that join forces in their struggle for survival in 1885 Canada.

Available on Amazon Prime | YouTube | Google Play

The Chorus (Les Choristes)
Directed by Christophe Barratier, 2014, 1h37, PG-13 / recommended for ages 12+

When he takes a job teaching music at a school for troubled boys, Clément Mathieu is unprepared for its harsh discipline and depressing atmosphere. But with passion and unconventional teaching methods, he's able to spark his students' interest in music and bring them a newfound joy! It also puts him at odds with the school's overbearing headmaster, however, locking Mathieu in a battle between politics and the determination to change his pupils' lives!

Available on Amazon Video | Google Play | YouTube | Vudu | FandangoNow

The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec (Les Aventures extraordinaires d’Adèle Blanc-Sec)
Directed by Luc Besson, 2010, 1h46, PG / recommended for ages 10+

The year is 1912. A 136 million-year old pterodactyl egg, housed on a shelf in the Natural History Museum, has mysteriously hatched, unleashing a prehistoric monster onto the Parisian streets. But nothing fazes Adèle, when she finds a connection with the ancient bird and reveals many more extraordinary surprises.

Available on tubi | Vudu | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play | iTunes

The Fox and the Child (Le Renard et l’enfant)
Directed by Luc Jacquet, 2007, 1h50, PG / recommended for ages 6+

What would it be like to have a fox for a friend? A 10-year-old girl who wants to know sets out to befriend a beautiful wild fox she names Lily. Bit by bit, in woods and fields blanketed by snow and carpeted by wildflowers, the girl and Lily build an extarordinary friendship as the fox leads her human companion on adventures bold, funny and even sometimes scary.

Available on Vudu | Amazon Video | YouTube | Google Play

To Be and To Have (Être et avoir)
Directed by Nicolas Philibert, 2002, 1h44, recommended for ages 7+

Georges Lopez is an educator at a small school in France's Auvergne region, where between December 2000 and June 2001 he taught 12 students between the ages of four and ten. Employing a curriculum that embraces both academics and practical skills, Lopez and his school represent a surprising mix of the old and the new, where computer technology and old-fashioned memorization of the multiplication tables sit side by side.

Available on Kanopy | Hoopla

Trouble at Timpetill (Les Enfants de Timpelbach)
Directed by Nicolas Bary, 2008, 2h13, recommended for ages 9+

Welcome to Timpetill, a small, serene village. Well, not really that serene… Indeed, for several weeks, the children have been playing multiple practical jokes and nasty tricks. The victims are, of course, other children… but also, and most of all, the parents. Overwrought, they decide to leave the village for what they think will only be one day. But nothing happens as planned: on the way back, they are taken prisoner by a group of soldiers. In Timpetill, the news of a village without parents makes Oscar and his gang of thugs happy! But that isn’t the case of a few daredevils who decide to side with Manfred and Marianne to regain control of the village.

Available on Vudu | YouTube | Google Play | Amazon Video | Hoopla

War of the Buttons (La Nouvelle guerre des boutons)
Directed by Christophe Barratier, 2011, 1h40, PG-13 / recommended for ages 10+

War of the Buttons follows Lebrac, a pre-teen rebel in WWII-occupied France. Lebrac enjoys leading "wars" between rival gangs of kids, but once he falls for a young Jewish girl in danger of being exposed by the Nazis, he must put aside the petty conflicts to unite the gangs and protect his love. In doing so, Lebrac and the other children confront the very real war happening around them.

Available on Redbox | FandangoNow | Amazon Video | iTunes | Vudu

You can also watch this other remake:

War of the Buttons (La Guerre des boutons) by Yann Samuell, 2011, 1h49, PG-13 / recommended for ages 8+
Available on YouTube | Google Play | Vudu

And if you're looking for short films:

A Trip To The Moon (Le Voyage dans la lune)
Directed by Georges Melies, 1902, 14 minutes, recommended for ages 7+
Available on Amazon Prime

The Red Ballon (Le Ballon Rouge)
Directed by Albert Lamorisse, 1956, 34 minutes, recommended for ages 4+
Available on FlixFling | Hoopla | The Criterion Channel | Kanopy | Vudu

White Mane (Crin Blanc, le Cheval Sauvage)
Directed by Albert Lamorisse, 1953, 47 minutes, recommended for ages 6+
Available on The Criterion Channel

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Having young kids at home during the coronavirus pandemic can be a challenge for any parent. With this in mind, we've rounded up a list of some of the best French TV series available for preschoolers on streaming platforms in the US. 

From staples like BabarSimon and Trotro, to the educational show Guess What?, and Ozie Boo!, which teaches little ones about protecting the environment, you're bound to find something to suit your mini TV critics!

Babar
Recommended for ages 5+

See the adventures of Babar, King of the elephants, his family and friends in this beloved series full of life lessons based on Jean de Brunhoff's classic book series.

Available on Tubi | Amazon Video | Google Play | YouTube | iTunes | Vudu

Bali
Recommended for ages 3+

Bali, a resolutely modern preschooler, lives a resolutely modern life in the big city. With a most un-stereotypical family, Bali faces the world inquisitively, sometimes shyly, never recklessly and always enthusiastically. 

Available on Amazon Prime | Google Play | YouTube | iTunes

Gigantosaurus
Recommended for ages 4+

Rocky, Bill, Tiny and Mazu are four young dinosaurs growing up in the Cretaceous period. Life is always an adventure: new volcanoes are popping up all the time, enormous triceratopses roam free… and the big bad Gigantosaurus reigns over it all!

Available on Amazon Video

Guess What? (Devine Quoi ?)
Recommended for ages 2+

Timothy and Annabel are two playful rabbits who love having fun and sharing their adventures with children. Their favorite game is solving puzzles. But before they find the solution of each mysterious question, our heroes will meet lots of friends, collect clues and enter the Fantasy Land of Guesses as they leap into the kid computer.

Available on Apple TV | Amazon Prime

Manon
Recommended for ages 2+

Manon, the little queen of animals, lives on a farm and shares some funny and poetic adventures with all her friends: Bingo the dog, Melba the cat, Baz the Donkey and many others.

Available on Amazon Prime

Mia
Recommended for ages 2+

Mia is a six-year-old mouse who lives in the depths of a large house, with her Granny Mimi, her friends and neighbors. Inquisitive, daring and fearless, Mia gets excited by everything and anything: she wants to see, try and experience it all!

Available on Amazon Prime

Mini Wolf (Mini-Loup)
Recommended for ages 4+

Mini wolf and his fun-loving pals friends are always on the lookout for a new adventure even if it includes a little bit of mischief.

Available on Netflix

Molang
Recommended for ages 3+

Molang is an affectionate, humorous look at the relationship between an eccentric, joyful, and enthusiastic rabbit, and a shy, discreet, and emotional little chick. The series explores Molang and Piu Piu’s everyday life with warmth and humor.

Available on Netflix Hulu Amazon Prime | Disney Now | YouTube Google Play | Hopster KidStream 

Ozie Boo! Save The Planet (Ozie Boo ! Protège ta planète)
Recommended for ages 2+

The Ozie Boo Team goes to school like all children around of the world… but their school is the Nature School.

Available on Amazon Prime

If you like it, you can also watch:
Ozie Boo! – Learn To Live Together - Available on Amazon Prime

Paprika
Recommended for ages 3+

Stan and Olivia – the amazingly different Paprika twins – use their boundless enthusiasm to turn everyday life into an extraordinary adventure.

Available on Netflix

Simon
Recommended for ages 3+

With his vivid imagination, Simon the rabbit searches for fun while learning about the importance of responsibility and communication.

Available on Netflix

Tales of Tatonka (Les Légendes de Tatonka)
Recommended age 4+

Meet Wanji, Nunpa, Yamni and Topa, four wolf-cubs who live with their parents Winyan and Wicasa amidst a wolf pack in the plains and forests of North America. Their friend Tatonka, the lone bison, initiates them to a world unknown to wolves: they will have to learn to live outside the family, sometimes in a hostile and totally surprising environment.

Available on Amazon Prime

Trotro
Recommended for ages 3+

Trotro is a little donkey with a head full of ideas. He knows exactly what he likes and doesn't like. He's a positive and engaging hero, with whom young children will easily identify.

Available on Amazon Prime

Zou
Recommended for ages 3+

Zou, a little five-year-old zebra, lives in a town inhabited only by zebras. He and his extended family live in a large house right next door to his best friend, Elzee. He is an imaginative and inquisitive foal, and he’s now old enough to start becoming his own person!

Available on Amazon Prime

And don't forget Tivi5MONDE!

TiVi5MONDE is America's first and only 24/7 French language children's network delivering cartoons, educational shows, animations and teen series - the ideal destination for the kids ages 4- 12! Kids' favorites include CalimeroOui Oui, Il était une fois...L'HommeBelle et SébastienChasseurs de dragons... Visit www.tivi5mondeusa.com to learn more.

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