A Cinematic Tour of Belgium: Must-Watch Belgian Movies Before your Trip

Belgium, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, has a vibrant film industry and an intriguing backdrop for various films. Our comprehensive guide includes Belgian movies and movies about Belgium, offering a cultural immersion for those planning to visit the country. Also, as a bonus, you will get a few movies that take place in Belgium (Bruges, Antwerp, Ghent).

Whether you’re a movie lover or just looking for something engaging, these films are perfect for understanding Belgium before your trip. They entertain and provide a genuine feel for Belgian culture, history, food, and scenery. By watching these movies, you’ll gain insights into Belgian people’s traditions, values, and everyday life, enhancing your travel experience.

Join us on a cinematic journey through Belgium with our top picks of films and documentaries. Note that some movies may be in French or Dutch but are available with English subtitles or versions.

In This Article:

• Best Belgian Movies of All Time
• Belgian Culture
• Historical Belgian Movies
• Movies Set in Belgium
• Documentaries about Belgian Cuisine
• Documentaries about Belgian Art and Artists
• Famous Cartoons Originated in Belgium
• Flemish Cinema
• Walloon Cinema
• FAQs about Belgian Movies and Cinematography

Best Belgian Movies of All Time (Classics)

Belgian Culture

Historical Belgian movies

Famous Movies Filmed in Belgium

Documentaries about Belgian Cuisine

• “A Good Year” (Een goed jaar) (2013) is a documentary that explores the world of Belgian winemaking and its relationship with local cuisine. It follows a year in the life of several Belgian winemakers and their challenges in producing high-quality wines. The film also delves into how these wines pair with traditional Belgian dishes, offering a rich view of the country’s culinary landscape.
• “Kings of Pastry” (2009) follows sixteen pastry chefs competing for the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Craftsman in France) award, one of whom is Belgian chef Jean-Philippe Darcis. The film provides an inside look at the intense and meticulous world of high-end pastry making, highlighting the skill and dedication required to excel in this field.
• Brussels Kitchen: The Film (2018) explores the dynamic food scene in Brussels, Belgium’s capital city. Featuring interviews with chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts, the film showcases the diversity of Belgian cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern gastronomic innovations. It also highlights the cultural melting pot that Brussels has become and how it influences the local culinary landscape.
• Flemish Foodies (2015) follows three renowned Flemish chefs, Kobe Desramaults, Olly Ceulenaere, and Jason Blanckaert, as they explore and redefine Flemish cuisine. Their innovative approaches and dedication to local ingredients bring a new perspective to traditional Flemish dishes.
• De Belgische Keuken (The Belgian Kitchen) (2021) extensively overviews Belgian cuisine, highlighting its regional diversity and rich culinary traditions. The film explores various dishes’ history, ingredients, and cultural significance, from the famous Belgian fries and waffles to lesser-known regional specialties.

Documentaries about Belgian Art and Artists

There are several good documentaries about Belgian art and artists. Here are a few notable ones that provide valuable insights into the lives and works of some of Belgium’s most influential artists and showcase their contributions to the world of art.

• “The Fall of the Modern Empire” (2013): This documentary explores the life and work of renowned Belgian artist Wim Delvoye, known for his controversial and provocative art, including tattooed pigs and cloaca machines.
• “Magritte: The Mystery of the Ordinary” (2014): This film delves into the life and works of René Magritte, one of Belgium’s most famous surrealist artists. It explores his unique style and the philosophical underpinnings of his art.
• “Facing Van Eyck” (2011): This documentary focuses on Jan van Eyck, one of the most significant early Netherlandish painters. It examines his masterful techniques and the impact of his work on the art world.
• “Panamarenko: Portrait of an Artist” (2015): This film offers an in-depth look at the life and work of Panamarenko, a Belgian artist known for his futuristic and often whimsical creations, including flying machines and kinetic sculptures.
• “Roger Raveel: Between the Image and the World” (2016): This documentary highlights the career of Roger Raveel, a prominent figure in Belgian contemporary art. It explores his innovative approach to painting and his influence on modern art.

Famous Cartoons Originated in Belgium

How Belgian Cinema Influences Tourism

• Film Locations as Tourist Attractions – Many Belgian films feature iconic locations that attract tourists. The picturesque city of Bruges showcased in “In Bruges” (2008), has become a popular destination for movie fans. Visitors can explore the city’s historic sites and follow in the footsteps of the film’s characters.
• Movie-Inspired Tours and Events – Belgium offers various movie-inspired tours and events, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Belgian cinema. These tours provide a unique way to experience the country’s culture and history, guided by the stories told through its films.
• Cultural Festivals and Film Screenings – Belgium hosts several cultural festivals and film screenings celebrating its cinematic achievements. Events like the Brussels International Film Festival and the Flanders International Film Festival in Ghent attract cinephiles worldwide, allowing them to experience Belgian culture through its films.
• Boost to Local Economy – Film-induced tourism significantly boosts the local economy. The influx of visitors to film locations generates revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. This economic benefit encourages local governments and businesses to support and promote film productions in their areas.
• Promotion of Belgian Heritage – Films set in Belgium often highlight the country’s rich heritage, including its architecture, art, and traditions. This exposure promotes Belgian cultural heritage to a global audience, encouraging tourists to visit and experience these cultural treasures firsthand.
• Interactive Museums and Exhibits – Some Belgian cities have interactive museums and exhibits dedicated to famous films and filmmakers. For example, the Magritte Museum in Brussels offers an in-depth look at the life and works of surrealist artist René Magritte, whose influence extends to Belgian cinema. These attractions provide educational and entertaining experiences for visitors.
• Influence on Culinary Tourism – Belgian films often showcase the country’s culinary delights, from chocolates to waffles and beer. This cinematic exposure influences culinary tourism, with visitors seeking authentic Belgian dining experiences inspired by what they’ve seen on screen.

By integrating these aspects, Belgian cinema not only entertains but also plays a significant role in promoting tourism and enhancing the cultural experience for visitors.

FAQs about Belgian Movies and Cinematography

Selection Criteria: How We Picked the Best Movies and Documentaries about Belgium

In curating our list of the best movies and documentaries to watch before your trip to Belgium, we embarked on a comprehensive evaluation process. Here’s how we selected the films that made the cut:

• Cultural Authenticity: We prioritized movies and documentaries that authentically capture the essence of Belgian culture, showcasing traditions, customs, and societal norms. Films that delve into the everyday life of Belgian citizens, their values, and social dynamics were given preference.
• Historical Accuracy: We considered movies and documentaries offering insight into Belgium’s rich history, spanning significant events and pivotal moments. Accuracy and attention to historical detail were key factors in our selection process.
• Scenic Landscapes: We included movies and documentaries showcasing Belgium’s picturesque landscapes, from the medieval architecture of Bruges to the rolling hills of the Ardennes.
• Authentic Cuisine: We included movies and documentaries featuring Belgian cuisine, offering viewers a tantalizing glimpse into the country’s culinary delights. Whether it’s traditional Belgian dishes or culinary innovations, films that celebrate the gastronomic culture of Belgium were favored.
• Filmed in Belgium: We specifically looked for movies and documentaries shot on location in Belgium. Authenticity was paramount, and we preferred films that authentically captured the Belgian landscape and urban environment.
• Critical and Audience Reception: We thoroughly examined reviews from reputable sources such as IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes, and other film critique platforms. Movies and documentaries with consistently positive reviews and widespread acclaim were given priority.
• Cultural Impact: We considered each movie and documentary’s cultural significance and impact within Belgium and globally. We considered films that have left a lasting impression, sparked cultural conversations, or influenced perceptions of Belgian culture.
• Diverse Representation: We aimed to include various genres, themes, and perspectives to cater to varying interests and tastes. From drama and comedy to documentaries and historical epics, we sought to provide a well-rounded selection of movies and documentaries that offer something for everyone.

By applying these criteria, we curated a selection of the best movies and documentaries about Belgium that offer viewers an immersive and enriching cinematic experience. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive guide that entertains and deepens appreciation for Belgian culture, history, cuisine, and landscapes.