Start with subtitles in your native language, then switch to subtitles in the language you're learning once you're more confident. This helps your brain associate words with meaning naturally.
Pro tip: If a scene is rich in dialogue, watch it twice — once with English subtitles, and again with subtitles in the target language.
Not all films are created equal when it comes to language learning. Here’s what to look for:
Modern and conversational language (e.g. romantic comedies, teen dramas)
Clear audio and standard pronunciation
Genres you actually enjoy, so you’ll keep watching
Avoid period dramas or fantasy movies when starting out — the vocabulary is often too advanced or outdated.
Don’t just passively watch — pause, rewind, repeat. When you hear a new word, pause the scene, write it down, and say it out loud.
You can also shadow the actors: repeat lines right after they say them to practice pronunciation and rhythm.
Keep a notebook (or digital doc) where you write down new words and expressions.
Include:
The word or phrase
A short definition
An example sentence from the movie
You’ll build a personal dictionary of natural expressions this way.
Try watching 20–30 minutes daily instead of binge-watching once a week. Shorter, consistent sessions help your brain retain more and stay engaged.
There are platforms designed specifically for this kind of learning — one of the most popular is Lingopie.
It combines all the strategies above in one easy-to-use interface:
Native-language films and TV shows with dual subtitles
Clickable subtitles with instant translations
Built-in tools for saving words, creating flashcards, and reviewing vocabulary
Interactive exercises to reinforce what you’ve watched
Content includes movies and shows from Netflix and Disney+, making it even easier to find something you'll enjoy
Available in multiple languages: Spanish, French, German, Korean, Italian, Portuguese, and more
💡 You can try Lingopie completely free for 7 days — no risk, just real immersion and real results.
Learning a language through movies isn’t just effective — it’s fun. By engaging with authentic content in a structured way, you’ll improve your listening, expand your vocabulary, and get a feel for real-life speech.
And if you want to simplify the process, Lingopie is one of the best ways to turn your screen time into learning time.