Top 30 Greatest Romanian Movies of All Time. Romanian movies have a long and colorful history, with lots of different genres and themes explored.
Even though the film industry has had its ups and downs, Romanian filmmakers have kept churning out top-notch films that have been appreciated both here and abroad.
They’re known for their realism, careful storytelling, and their ability to tackle tough social and political topics.
1. The Contest (1982)
Director: Dan Pita
The participants’ search for direction in an outdoor competition transforms into a voyage of self-discovery and introspection. A team of colleagues embarks on a journey to the enchanting Romanian mountains, where they find themselves disoriented amidst the dense forest and engage in a friendly competition to navigate their way back. To their astonishment, it is not their designated supervisor who emerges as the guiding force to lead them out of the woods. – Romanian Movies
2. Crulic – The Path to Beyond (2011)
Director: Anca Damian
Crulic The Path to Beyond is an animated documentary that delves into the life of Crulic, a 33-year-old Romanian who was accused of stealing a wallet from a prominent Polish Judge.
After being taken to the Krakow Detention Center Custody prison, Crulic decided to embark on a hunger strike, demanding a meeting with someone from the Romanian Consulate and a change of attorney. In response, the Consul advised him to trust the Polish justice system.
Despite providing evidence, such as a bus ticket and passenger record, proving his innocence and placing him in Italy on the day of the theft, Crulic’s detention was extended by three months.
This sparked press investigations in both countries, leading to the resignation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Romania and the official accusation of three doctors in Poland for Crulic’s death. The narration of Crulic’s story is provided by acclaimed Romanian actor, Vlad Ivanov, in a hauntingly ironic voiceover from beyond the grave. – Romanian Movies
3. Aferim! (2015)
Director: Radu Jude
The participants of an outdoor orientation contest embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and introspection. Meanwhile, in 19th-century Romania, a nobleman hires a policeman named Costandin to track down a Gypsy slave who has fled from his property after engaging in a romantic relationship with the nobleman’s wife. – Romanian Movies
4. The Death of Mr. Lazarescu (2005)
Director: Cristi Puiu
Dante Remus Lăzărescu, a retired engineer who lives alone with his three cats in a Bucharest apartment, finds himself in excruciating pain and calls for an ambulance. However, when no ambulance arrives, he turns to his neighbors for help.
Although they don’t have the specific medicine he needs, they offer him some pills to alleviate his nausea. During this time, one of the neighbors reveals that Lăzărescu is a heavy drinker. With their assistance, Lăzărescu is taken back to his apartment and put to bed.
They make another call for an ambulance. Finally, the ambulance arrives and the nurse, Mioara, arrives to assess Lăzărescu’s condition. She dismisses the possibility that his previous ulcer surgery is the cause of his current pain. While taking his medical history, she suspects that Lăzărescu may have colon cancer.
Mioara informs Lăzărescu’s sister, who lives in a different city, about the seriousness of his condition and advises her to visit him in the hospital. Meanwhile, Lăzărescu’s daughter, who resides in Toronto, Canada, is unable to be present immediately. His sister makes arrangements to come the following day to be by his side. – Romanian Movies
5. Kwaidan (1964)
Director: Masaki Kobayashi
This movie comprises four distinct and separate narratives. The story revolves around a destitute samurai who abandons his true love to marry for wealth. However, his decision proves to be disastrous as he realizes the marriage is a failure. He returns to his former wife, only to uncover something eerie about her.
In his dire situation, he encounters an icy spirit in the form of a woman who spares his life on the condition that he never reveals her existence to anyone. However, after a decade passes, he forgets his promise. The third story, “Hoichi the Earless,” centers around Hoichi, a blind musician residing in a monastery.
His exceptional singing skills attract the attention of ghostly imperial court members who command him to perform the epic ballad of their death battle. Unfortunately, the ghosts gradually drain his life force.
To protect him, the monks inscribe a holy mantra on his body to render him invisible to the spirits. Yet, they overlook something crucial. – Romanian Movies
6. Constantin si Elena (2009)
Director: Andrei Dascalescu
Dante Remus Lăzărescu, a retired engineer who lives alone with his three cats in a Bucharest apartment, finds himself in excruciating pain and calls for an ambulance. However, when no ambulance arrives, he turns to his neighbors for help.
Although they don’t have the specific medicine he needs, they offer him some pills to alleviate his nausea. During this time, one of the neighbors reveals that Lăzărescu is a heavy drinker. With their assistance, Lăzărescu is taken back to his apartment and put to bed. They make another call for an ambulance.
Finally, the ambulance arrives and the nurse, Mioara, arrives to assess Lăzărescu’s condition. She dismisses the possibility that his previous ulcer surgery is the cause of his current pain. While taking his medical history, she suspects that Lăzărescu may have colon cancer.
Mioara informs Lăzărescu’s sister, who lives in a different city, about the seriousness of his condition and advises her to visit him in the hospital. Meanwhile, Lăzărescu’s daughter, who resides in Toronto, Canada, is unable to be present immediately. His sister makes arrangements to come the following day to be by his side. – Romanian Movies
7. Rurouni Kenshin Part I: Origins (2012)
Director: Keishi Otomo
Kenshin Himura, a former assassin, made a solemn vow to protect the vulnerable without resorting to killing. Carrying a unique reverse-edged sword, Kenshin embarks on a journey across Japan during a time of transition from the samurai era to the New Age.
One day, Kenshin comes to the aid of Kaoru Kamiya, an idealistic young woman targeted by the ruthless gangsters of Kanryuu Takeda, a powerful opium drug lord who seeks to take over her school for his illicit opium production.
Grateful for Kenshin’s assistance, Kaoru extends an invitation for him to stay at her school. Meanwhile, Megumi Takani, a skilled chemist forced to work for Kanryuu, manages to escape from his clutches and seeks refuge at Kaoru’s school.
As this unfolds, a mysterious killer known as Battosai begins targeting and murdering police officers, leaving cryptic messages attached to their bodies. Recognizing the imminent danger posed by Kanryuu and his nefarious plans, Kenshin and a street fighter named Sanosuke Sagara join forces to confront their mutual enemy and protect the innocent. – Romanian Movies
8. Michael the Brave (1971)
Director: Sergiu Nicolaescu
This film showcases the remarkable rule of Mihai Pätrascu. It portrays his efforts to unite the provinces of Transalpine Vallachia, Transylvania, and Moldavia into the nation of Romania, despite facing opposition from the Ottoman and Austrian Empires. The movie presents a captivating blend of grand battle sequences, intricate political plots, deceitful betrayals, and compelling family conflicts. – Romanian Movies
9. The Dacians (1966)
Director: Sergiu Nicolaescu
Decebal, the esteemed ruler of Dacia, is willing to make a significant sacrifice to preserve the unity of his people. Despite the King and his daughter Meda’s disapproval, Decebal offers his own son, Cotyso, to the god Zamolxis. Meanwhile, Septimius Severus, a young Roman who is deeply loyal to his adopted country, must decide between his cultural upbringing and his familial ties. – Romanian Movies
10. Wasabi (2001)
Director: Gérard Krawczyk
Hubert, a French policeman known for his unconventional methods, finds himself in a predicament when his boss forces him to take a two-month break due to their differing views on work. In need of a change of scenery, Hubert decides to return to Japan, where he had previously worked 19 years ago.
His main objective is to settle the probate of his ex-girlfriend, who mysteriously disappeared shortly after their marriage. Upon arriving in Japan, Hubert unexpectedly reunites with his former colleague, Momo, and is introduced to his daughter, Yumi.
Astonished by the revelation of his daughter’s existence, Hubert is determined to uncover the truth behind his girlfriend’s sudden departure and the reasons that led to their separation.
As Hubert delves deeper into the investigation, he unravels a shocking revelation that not only sheds light on why his girlfriend left him but also poses a new challenge for him and his newfound daughter, Yumi.
Together, they must confront the consequences of the past and navigate the complexities of their present situation. In this gripping tale, Hubert’s sharp methods and unwavering determination will be put to the test as he strives to protect his daughter and find closure for the unresolved mysteries of his past. – Romanian Movies
11. Marilena from P7 (2006)
Director: Cristian Nemescu
A 13-year-old boy named Andrei, along with his group of friends, observes the nightly performances of prostitutes from a rooftop. They witness how these women are picked up by drivers. Among them, Andrei develops feelings for a particular girl named Marilena.
However, he soon discovers that he needs a significant amount of money to approach her. In an attempt to gather the required funds, Andrei steals his father’s salary and heads to the meeting place of the prostitutes.
Marilena’s pimp is also present, and after some negotiation, agrees to allow Marilena and another prostitute to accompany Andrei to a nearby pub. At the pub, they encounter a Rom singer named Elvis, who has translated Elvis Presley’s lyrics into his own language.
The prostitutes playfully tease Andrei, suggesting that he needs a car to be able to date them, before eventually leaving. Before parting ways, Andrei musters the courage to ask Marilena for her phone number, and she discreetly writes it on his hand. – Romanian Movies
12. Stone Wedding (1973)
Director: Dan Pita, Mircea Veroiu
Two somber narratives revolve around love that is missing or unrequited. The initial tale portrays a widow who toils tirelessly, driven by desperation, in an endeavor to rescue her ailing daughter. On the other hand, the second story recounts the journey of two itinerant singers who abduct a bride from her wedding ceremony. – Romanian Movies
13. Stephen the Great – Vaslui 1475 (1975)
Director: Mircea Dragan
It was only 22 years ago that the Ottoman Sultan Mahomed II had successfully conquered Constantinople, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. With this victory, the Sultan set his sights on expanding his empire into Europe.
His vast armies, consisting of Janissaries, Sipahis, and Akincis, had already conquered various territories such as Trebizond, the Mediterranean Isles, Greece, Albania, and Bosnia. However, there were still a few East European kingdoms that remained unconquered in the path of the Turks.
Recognizing the imminent threat, Prince Stephen the Great of Moldavia sent envoys to the courts of Europe, seeking military assistance and warning them of the Turkish menace. In response, Sultan Mahomed decided to launch an attack on Moldavia during the winter season, crossing the frozen wide river Danube.
He dispatched General Soliman-Pasha with 80,000 troops towards Bulgaria to join forces with two Turkish armies led by Hrana-Beg and Ali-Beg. The outcome of this battle would determine the fate of Europe. – Romanian Movies
14. The Rest is Silence (2007)
Director: Nae Caranfil
The film “Romania’s Independence” was created in 1911-12 by the collaboration of Grigore Brezianu, a Romanian movie director, and Leon Popescu, a financial tycoon. This two-hour-long movie aimed to faithfully depict the Independence War of 1877. However, “Restul e tacere” presents a different perspective, loosely based on real events, as it narrates the story behind the making of this historical film. – Romanian Movies
15. Red Gloves (2010)
Director: Radu Gabrea
The narrative revolves around Felix Goldschmidt, a young student who is unexpectedly arrested for a crime he cannot comprehend. Alongside his fellow prisoners, Felix initially assumes that this is a mere error.
However, the novel also delves into the political aspect, illustrating the oppressive nature of a totalitarian regime that instills fear and targets individuals without reason, demanding their obedience.
By interweaving scenes from Felix’s previous life, the author skillfully creates a juxtaposition between his idealistic nature and his current suffocating prison environment. This allows us to witness Felix’s pursuit of love and fulfillment amidst the challenging circumstances he faces. – Romanian Movies
16. Forest of the Hanged (1965)
Director: Liviu Ciulei
In 1916, Apostol Bologa, an ethnic Romanian, served as a Lieutenant in the Habsburg Army and arrived at the front lines with a strong determination to fulfill his duty. Upon meeting Captain Klapka, he informs him of the impending execution of Lieutenant Svoboda, who attempted to desert the enemy.
Bologa expresses his satisfaction at having been a member of the Court Martial that sentenced Svoboda to death by hanging, as they all swore loyalty to the Habsburgs.
However, Bologa cannot ignore the fact that the Romanian Army is their enemy, and as a Romanian himself, he yearns for his homeland, which is just a few yards away from the Romanian lines.
Bologa struggles with the conflict between his loyalty and his desire to desert his Romanian brethren. Captain Klapka reminds him of the severe punishment for desertion. – Romanian Movies
17. Bullet Train (2022)
Director: David Leitch
Ladybug is resolute in carrying out his duties without any complications, as previous assignments have been marred by unforeseen circumstances.
Nevertheless, fate has different intentions for him. Ladybug’s most recent task propels him into a dangerous encounter with formidable enemies hailing from various parts of the world, each with their own interconnected yet conflicting goals.
This high-stakes journey takes place aboard the fastest train in the world, where the final destination marks only the commencement of an exhilarating adventure through contemporary Japan. – Romanian Movies
18. Portrait of the Fighter as a Young Man (2010)
Director: Constantin Popescu
When the Soviet Army entered Romania, a portion of the Romanian population sought refuge in the mountains. This group consisted of a diverse range of individuals, including nationalists, fascists, liberals, apolitical farmers, and members of the middle class, all of whom had been affected by the Communists’ confiscations.
These individuals formed over a thousand armed resistance groups, finding solace in the remote forests of the Carpathian Mountains. Despite their hopes for support from the Western Allies, they were left waiting in vain.
Among these groups was one led by Ion Gavrila-Ogoranu, who managed to evade detection until his arrest in 1976. This film portrays the daily lives of this group, highlighting their struggle that became an end in itself. Constantly pursued by the enemy, arrest meant torture and often death.
The young men in this group, hungry and emotionally withdrawn, found themselves entangled in a partisan war that could not be won. They were lost in the vast landscape of the South Carpathians, constantly monitored by the watchful eyes of the secret police, the Securitate. – Romanian Movies
19. Burebista (1980)
Director: Gheorghe Vitanidis
The opening shot of the movie features a rocky outcrop resembling a human head, overlooking the Carpathian Mountains. A voice-over narration explains that the kingdom of Dacia, ruled by the mysterious Burebista, is facing a threat from the expanding Roman Empire.
The high priest Deceneus convinces the Dacian lords to pledge their loyalty to Burebista, who promises to protect Dacia from the Roman invasion. Burebista introduces a strict military training regime to prepare for the impending war.
The arrival of refugees from Rome, including Calopor, a former gladiator who fought alongside Spartacus, is welcomed by Burebista. He asks Calopor to recount the tales of Spartacus’ bravery. Burebista also learns about the young Julius Caesar’s ambition and his rivalry with Pompey. – Romanian Movies
20. Beyond the Hills (2012)
Director: Cristian Mungiu
Alina and Voichita have been close friends since their time in the orphanage, and their relationship evolved into a romantic one as they reached sexual maturity. However, Alina’s desire to escape poverty led her to emigrate to Germany and work as a barmaid.
Despite their promise of fidelity, Alina could not bear the distance from Voichita and returned to Romania to bring her lover to Germany. Unfortunately, Voichita had fallen in love with God and was now living in a convent, planning to take vows.
The priest reluctantly agreed to let Alina stay before their hypothetical departure, but he was aware of her materialistic and troublesome nature. – Romanian Movies
21. How I Celebrated the End of the World (2006)
Director: Cãtãlin Mitulescu
In 1989, in the city of Bucharest, the final year of Ceausescu’s dictatorship, Eva resides with her parents and her younger brother, Lalalilu. During a day at school, Eva and her boyfriend unintentionally shatter a bust of Ceausescu.
As a consequence, they are compelled to admit their wrongdoing before a disciplinary committee, resulting in Eva’s expulsion from school and her transfer to a reformatory institution.
It is at this establishment that she encounters Andrei and together they make the decision to flee Romania. Meanwhile, Lalalilu firmly believes that Ceausescu is the primary cause for Eva’s choice to depart, leading him and his school friends to devise a plan to assassinate the dictator. – Romanian Movies
22. Then I Sentenced Them All to Death (1972)
Director: Sergiu Nicolaescu
A German soldier was discovered dead in a Romanian village during World War II. The superior of the deceased soldier warned the villagers that if the culprit did not surrender by the next morning, they would all be subjected to retaliation. To prevent this from happening, the village’s intellectuals attempted to persuade Ipu, the village fool, to confess to the murder and rescue them. – Romanian Movies
23. Dogs (2016)
Director: Bogdan Mirica
Roman, a young urbanite, ventures into a secluded village in rural Romania to sell the land he has inherited from his late grandfather.
However, his arrival in the village sets off a chain of peculiar occurrences, ultimately leading him to uncover the shocking truth that his grandfather was once a notorious local crime boss.
To proceed with the sale, Roman must confront his grandfather’s former associates, who are now under the leadership of Samir, a charming and captivating Tartar.
Simultaneously, Hogas, the village’s police officer, is investigating the discovery of a severed foot, but his true motive lies in seeking revenge against Samir, his lifelong adversary, no matter the cost. – Romanian Movies
24. Anul dragonului (2013)
Director: Iulian Manuel Ghervas, Adina Popescu
In 2012, during the Year of the Water Dragon, Romania became the backdrop for a series of interconnected stories. Han Wenlong, an undocumented immigrant, had his aspirations of working on a construction site in Eastern Europe shattered before they could even materialize.
Shen Xiaoming, a businessman, found himself caught between two worlds, living a life of uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Li Jianhua, a journalist, embarked on a journey to narrate the tale of a nascent community situated at the very beginning of its path. These narratives unfolded against the backdrop of a shared dream between China and Romania – the socialist dream. – Romanian Movies
25. The Oak (1992)
Director: Lucian Pintilie
The story of Nela provides a glimpse into Romania before the fall of Ceausescu. Nela is the daughter of a former colonel of the Securitate, the Romanian political police. Despite pressure to follow in her sister’s footsteps and become an agent of the Securitate, Nela refuses and instead lives with her father.
When he passes away, Nela leaves Bucharest and eventually settles in a small town where she meets Mitica, a surgeon who shares her sense of humor and outlook on life. – Romanian Movies
26. Veronica (1973)
Director: Elisabeta Bostan
Veronica, a Romanian film from 1973, is a true masterpiece of cinema. Starring Dem Radulescu, Lulu Mihaescu, and Margareta Paslaru, the film takes place in a magical world filled with dreamlike scenery and exuberant energy.
The story follows Veronica, a girl who grows up in a home for children, as she receives a magical bag from her fairy godmother, played by Paslaru, that can fulfill any desire. However, Veronica refuses to share her gift with the other children and is punished by Zana. – Romanian Movies
27. The Magic Mountain (I) (2015)
Director: Anca Damian
The animated docu-drama portrays the captivating life story of Adam Jacek Winkler, a Polish refugee residing in Paris. Throughout nearly fifty years, Adam’s life is depicted as an extraordinary journey filled with a desire to bring about change in the world.
However, it was during the 1980s that his adventurous spirit took a radical turn. Adam envisions himself as a knight of the 20th century and embarks on a courageous mission, leaving France behind to join Commander Massoud in Afghanistan.
Despite his amateurism, Adam fights valiantly against the Soviets, showcasing both his bravery and determination.
The event serves as a turning point in Adam’s fate, reflecting the intricate connection between an individual’s destiny and the unfolding of historical events. Furthermore, it prompts Adam to engage in introspection, contemplating his journey and the impact it has had on his life. – Romanian Movies
28. Scarred Hearts (2016)
Director: Radu Jude
The movie inspiration from the novel written by Max Blecher, a renowned Romanian author. The story is set in 1937 and revolves around the life of Emanuel, a young man in his early twenties. Emanuel resides in a sanatorium located on the Black Sea coast, where he battles bone tuberculosis.
Amidst his struggles, he finds himself falling in love with another patient. Through his narration, the audience is exposed to the endeavors of Emanuel and his fellow patients as they strive to embrace life to the fullest, despite their deteriorating bodies. – Romanian Movies
29. A Story from Chikamatsu (1954)
Director: Kenji Mizoguchi
To relieve her brother and the family home from heavy debt, Osan, the honorable wife of the frugal but respected scroll-maker Ishun, seeks help from her husband’s compassionate employee, Mohei.
However, a clear forgery and an absurd accusation force the two to flee from the unwelcoming Kyoto household of the printer and seek refuge in the inhospitable streets of 17th-century Osaka. Now, amidst scandalous rumors and constant danger, Mohei and Osan appear to be fighting a losing battle. – Romanian Movies
30. The Travelling Cat Chronicles (2018)
Director: Kôichirô Miki
Nana, a charming girl with adorable paws and a purring nature, possesses intelligence and a keen awareness of her talents. Unfortunately, her father Satoru is no longer able to care for her and must find a new home for her. As they embark on a journey to find the perfect candidate, Satoru reconnects with old friends and makes new ones, revealing his own story along the way. – Romanian Movies