‘AMÉLIE,” the little French movie that could, has broken a longstanding record to become the highest-grossing French-language film to be released in the United States.

Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s whimsical tale has grossed $20.9 million, breaking the previous record, $20.4 million, held by “La Cage Aux Folles” since 1979, according to Entertainment Data Inc. (In 1979, ticket prices were about half what they are now.)

Last week “Amélie,” starring Audrey Tautou as a shy Parisian waitress who wants to bring happiness to others, crossed the $100 million mark for worldwide box-office receipts. The film is playing in New York.