Improving Speaking and Listening English with Best Movies: from self-introduction to small talk

Nov 2023

Movies are a popular way to learn English and one of our favorites. You must select the film based not just on your interests but also on your fluency and overall understanding level. And we're here to help you today! This post has dozens of intriguing and engaging films for learners from A1 to C2.

Advantages of Watching Movies

Most people believe that watching English-language films can only help you improve your listening abilities and aural perception. However, this is only partially correct. This exciting and enjoyable study method offers several advantages. Here are a couple of such examples:

• Contextual education. Good English learning films place the language in a rich environment, allowing you to discover new vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and conversational phrases within a relevant situation. You'll learn to hold a business conversation and self-introduction in English by watching the movie. Learn more here - https://livexp.com/blog/simple-self-introduction-in-english/.
• Communication that is not verbal. Much of the storytelling in movies is done through nonverbal indications such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language. Observing them improves your capacity to transmit meanings that go beyond words.
• Emotional involvement. The presence of films increases your enthusiasm to learn the language since you like the process. You become more involved in comprehending and expressing yourself in English when you connect with the characters and tales.

Another crucial feature of watching films for English learning is recognizing different accents and understanding intonations. It is a necessary ability that may boost your confidence while interacting with native speakers. Also, remember that viewing films (particularly ones you enjoy) is a pleasant study method. 

Best Films for English Learning

Although it may appear obvious, it is essential to highlight that selecting films appropriate for your fluency level is critical. However, it may be more complex than you think. For example, do you believe Toy Story or Titanic has a better vocabulary? Of course, because it's an animated feature for kids, most people think it's the first one. 

However, Titanic has a broad A-level vocabulary coverage, according to the current study. This film is better appropriate for B1 pupils than Toy Story or Stuart Little since it has more intelligible language and phrases. Don't be fooled by children's movies! They can be far more complicated than other classic images at times. 

Levels A1 and A2

The Song of the Sea - Animation

This enigmatic animated film is our number one choice for the finest movie to learn English. It transports viewers to the magical worlds of Irish and Scottish mythology. The siblings know that the girl is a selkie, a mystical creature who can shift into a seal. Although the narrative is complex, the film suits A1 audiences since the conversation and vocabulary are straightforward, and the pronunciation is clear.

The Jungle Book - Action

It will take you on an incredible journey through the forests of India. The primary character is Mowgli, a young orphan raised by wolves. This film provides an excellent chance for Elementary level pupils to participate in an exciting narrative while learning basic English vocabulary. The characters' familiarity and how they introduce themselves in English in this movie are worth noting.

The Parent Trap - Action

Lindsay Lohan plays Hallie and Annie, twin sisters separated in infancy. Their parents reared one daughter each in quite different nations and conditions. The film combines easy vocabulary and a compelling narrative, making it an excellent opportunity to have fun while practicing language skills. Please pay attention to the central characters' initial meeting, how they get to know each other and introduce themselves, and what phrases they use.

New York Minutes - Comedy

Talented Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen ask you to join them on an exciting vacation to bustling New York. Despite being sisters, the girls have distinct personalities, ambitions, and hobbies. However, it contains enough fundamental words and phrases to broaden your lexicon and improve your conversational abilities.

Levels B1-B2

Intermediate and Upper-Intermediate indicate a more extensive vocabulary and more fluency. As a result, you may begin watching more genres and complex films. 

Face/Off - Crime

The two significant protagonists are FBI Special Agent Sean Archer (John Travolta) and terrorist Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage). Both performers are noted for their excellent diction and easy pronunciation, allowing Intermediate students to grasp all the lines quickly, and their magnificent performance keeps you hooked from the first seconds. Please note how the key characters greet each other and introduce themselves.

Prisoners - Crime

Keller Dover's daughter and a friend went missing on Thanksgiving Day, according to the narrative. The film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with great performances from the actors, probing the borders of justice and the ramifications of retribution. The film's engaging plot, straightforward speech, and comprehensible American accent make it ideal for language learners. 

About a Boy - Drama

Will Freeman (Hugh Grant), a freewheeling and commitment-phobic bachelor, and Marcus Brewer, a socially awkward 12-year-old child (Nicholas Hoult), form an unlikely connection in the movie. The film's appeal stems from its well-developed characters and humorous language. It creates a mix between comedy and drama, leaving spectators with a pleasant and reflective feeling.

Dear John - Romance

Savannah (Amanda Seyfried), a college student enthusiastic about helping others, and John (Channing Tatum), a loyal soldier with a troubled history, create a profound connection and begin a love relationship. The film is an excellent method to improve your love vocabulary and conversational English. And, of course, cry your eyes out.

C1 and C2 Level

Most English learners aim for Advanced and Proficient levels. You can watch all films without subtitles if you have high fluency. 

Fight Club - Drama

The storyteller, played by Edward Norton, joins up with the intriguing Tyler Durden, played by Brad Pitt, to start an underground fighting club. As the club grows in popularity, it becomes a robust social movement with unforeseeable outcomes. Be sure to get to know the central characters as they meet and greet each other.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona - Romance 

The narrative takes place in the magnificent Barcelona, Spain. It illustrates Vicky, Cristina, and Juan Antonio's linked connections. The film delves into topics of love, passion, and the intricacies of human relationships.

Pulp Fiction - Crime thriller

This classic neo-noir crime film is remembered for its nonlinear storyline and distinctive combination of dark humor and violence. The story follows the lives of some characters, including hitmen Vincent Vega (John Travolta) and Jules Winfield (Samuel L. Jackson). 

12 Angry Men - Crime

The film is almost entirely set in a jury room and follows the deliberations of twelve jurors. They are all responsible for determining the destiny of a young guy accused of murder.