A “masterpiece” French-language romantic comedy that’s hailed by fans as the best film ever made is streaming for free in the UK. Amélie (2001) tells the story of the titular shy, eccentric young waitress (played by Audrey Tautou) living out an isolated existence in a neighbourhood of Paris.

But by chance she discovers an old box of toys in her flat, manages to track down the owner, and watches on secretly as it sparks joy in his life. Having caught the bug for helping others, she begins a campaign of secretly attempting to fix problems in the lives of fellow outsiders around her. The ensembled cast incudes Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus, Lorella Cravotta, Serge Merlin, Jamel Debbouze, Claire Maurier, Clotilde Mollet, Isabelle Nanty, Dominique Pinon, Artus de Penguern, Yolande Moreau, Urbain Cancelier, and Maurice Bénichou.

It was directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet from a screenplay by Guillaume Laurant. It was critically acclaimed upon release, and won a host of awards, including two BAFTAs.

Fans have flocked to IMDb to shower the film with praise. One, among many that gave the film a 10/10 score, wrote: “This movie gives you one of the most unique feelings.

“It is a true art everything is so artistic and makes you feel amazing. Masterpiece, everyone should watch it.

Another writing back in 2006 said: “At the time of this writing, this film is ranked on IMDb as the 31st greatest film ever made. This is a sad under-ranking.

“This film is not only the greatest movie ever made, it shouldn’t have to compete with such films as the Lord of the Rings, which will be forgotten 10 years from now.

“Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet has painted a timeless classic for the modern era.”

A third wrote: “Amélie is by far my most favorite film. I almost cannot describe how magically wonderful this film is. From the story, the characters, the hair styles, the fashion, the special effects, and especially the actors. There is not one single thing that I dislike about Amélie.

“This is one of the most original and ingenious love stories ever written. The world of Amélie’s mind is truly a wondrous place to reside.”

A fourth added: “This is a truly excellent film that is extremely creative and unusual. One of my favorite films and it is one of the first movies I recommend to people who haven’t watched foreign films to introduce them to movies outside of Hollywood.”

It has a 15 certificate and contains frequent moderate sex references – so viewer discretion is advised.

Amélie was “recently added” to ITVX, where you can watch it for free (with ads). It’s also available to stream, rent or buy on various other platforms in the UK.