The heart of it is simple: All cinema is French cinema. Just as there would be no United States without the battalions sent from France during the War of American Independence, and no extra three pounds on your ass without the ubiquitous French fries, there would be no Hollywood without the Lumière brothers. Here’s a refresher course about French film to get you started.

INTERVIEW: Few Spare Moments for Juliette Binoche Juliette Binoche, born and raised in Paris, has entered the most fruitful (if perhaps hectic) stretch of an already remarkable career, adding explorations of dance and art to her full film slate. Read More >>

The French film industry has a proud history of leading men and women with long and illustrious careers. But unlike their American counterparts, the French seem to place a greater emphasis on talent than on looks alone. That's not to say that there's any lack of swooning from adoring fans -- more than stars, these thespians have become cinema icons and national treasures.

France has long been a fertile breeding ground for unique and visionary directors. Here are five filmmakers that have sharply shaped and influenced contemporary French cinema.

French film and cocktails were made for each other. How about a Grand Mimosa to impress your date after you see your next French romantic film? We’ve got the perfect cocktail recipe to complement every genre of French film, from film noir to the New Nouvelle Vague.