[1] The European co-production among France, Germany and Belgium was selected in the Competition at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, where it competed for the Golden Bear with its first screening on 19 February at Berlinale Palast.

[11] Peter Debruge reviewing in Variety said, "Langue Étrangère is more than just another same-sex first-love story, by exploring the cultural differences between a French and German girl — as well as their classmates in both schools — Burger taps into the broader way these neighboring countries relate today, nearly 80 years after World War 2.

"[12] Matthew Joseph Jenner reviewed the film for the International Cinephile Society, writing that "brilliantly subversive and genuinely poignant in both form and content, Langue Étrangère proves to be one of the year’s most layered and poetic dramas.

"[15] Jonathan Romney reviewing the film at Berlinale, wrote in ScreenDaily "Serious-minded political themes, simmering tension and tenderness between the two young leads, and an overall intelligence combine to just about overcome a final collapse into contrivance.

"[16] Ola Salwa reviewing the film at Berlinale for Cineuropa wrote, "Young actresses Lilith Grasmug and Josefa Heinsius are the beating heart of this coming-of-age drama by Claire Burger, revolving around a language exchange trip to Germany.