Why Use Movies and TV Shows to Practice a Language?

There are many benefits to using movies and TV shows to practice a language. Here are just a few:

1. Exposure to Different Accents and Dialects

When you watch movies and TV shows in a language, you expose yourself to different accents and dialects. This can be especially helpful if you plan on traveling to a country where the language is spoken or if you are communicating with people who have a different accent than what you are used to.

2. Increased Vocabulary

Movies and TV shows often use language that is more colloquial and informal than what you might find in a textbook. This can help you expand your vocabulary and learn how to use language in a more natural way.

3. Improved Pronunciation

When you watch movies and TV shows in a language, you can hear how native speakers pronounce words and phrases. This can be especially helpful if you are struggling with certain sounds or if you want to improve your accent.

4. Immersion in the Language

Movies and TV shows can provide a more immersive experience than traditional language learning methods. You can hear the language being spoken in context, which can help you understand how to use it in real-life situations.

How to Get the Most Out of Movies and TV Shows

Now that you know why movies and TV shows are a great way to practice a language, let’s discuss some tips on how to get the most out of this method.

1. Choose Content That Interests You

One of the keys to success when using movies and TV shows to practice a language is to choose content that interests you. If you are not engaged with the material, you are less likely to stick with it. Choose movies and TV shows that you would enjoy watching even if they weren’t in the language you are trying to learn.

2. Use Subtitles Wisely

Subtitles can be helpful when watching movies and TV shows in a language, but they can also be a crutch. If you rely too heavily on subtitles, you may not be fully engaging with the language. Try watching without subtitles first, and then use them as a tool to help you understand difficult concepts or phrases.

3. Watch with a Native Speaker

Watching movies and TV shows with a native speaker can be a great way to improve your comprehension and pronunciation. They can help you understand the nuances of the language and correct any mistakes you make. Plus, it’s a fun way to bond over a shared interest.

4. Take Notes

If you hear a word or phrase that you don’t understand, write it down and look it up later. This can help you expand your vocabulary and improve your comprehension. You can also take note of any grammar rules or sentence structures that you notice.

Recommended Movies and TV Shows to Practice a Language

If you’re not sure where to start, here are some recommended movies and TV shows to practice a language:

Spanish: La Casa de Papel (Money Heist), Narcos, Y Tu Mamá También

French: Amélie, The Intouchables, Call My Agent!

Japanese: Your Name, Midnight Diner, Terrace House

German: Dark, Good Bye Lenin!, Babylon Berlin

Italian: La Grande Bellezza (The Great Beauty), Gomorrah, Call Me by Your Name

Conclusion

Watching movies and TV shows in a language is a fun and effective way to practice. It can help you improve your comprehension, vocabulary, and pronunciation, while also providing a more immersive experience than traditional language learning methods. By following these tips and choosing content that interests you, you can make the most out of this method and become fluent in no time.