Helmed by popular French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet with a screenplay by Guillame Laurant, Amélie tells the story of its charming but lonely eponymous character, whose joie de vivre is contagious. Working as a waitress in a quintessential Parisian café, Amélie transforms the lives of those around her through elaborate anonymous acts of kindness. She is played wonderfully by Audrey Tatou, with a mischievous eye twinkle that will immediately win you over. The film, which was nominated for five Academy Awards and earned more than $170 million worldwide, resonates with both arthouse and mainstream audiences alike as it reminds viewers that just like the stones Amélie skips in the canal, our actions ripple outward and into the lives of those around us. Yann Tiersen’s wondrous score only adds to its magical appeal. — Lisa Elliott

Rated: R