As I often say, if learning a language were like constructing a high-rise building, effortlessly understanding movies and series would be the top floor. Admittedly, reaching that level takes time and dedication.

That said, nothing can stop you from starting now, no matter your current level—so long as you’re willing to embrace a certain amount of confusion and gaps in understanding while adding a dash of imagination to your viewing experience. Just remember: if your level is still low, don’t be too hard on yourself.

To begin, let’s examine several factors that can hinder full comprehension.

Cultural references (ideas linked to a specific culture)

The temptation to investigate every cultural reference may turn into a tedious process. I recommend being selective and letting go of those that don’t stop you from grasping the main ideas. Striving for 100% comprehension can sometimes take the joy out of the experience for English learners.

Tip If you’re inclined, you could do some research before watching to better understand the historical, cultural, or social context in which the film is set. For example, if you’re planning to watch The Darkest Hour, having a solid understanding of the political landscape during Churchill’s rise to office could be particularly helpful.

Irony

If you find yourself in a situation where you recognise that irony is being used but it is completely lost on you, there are at least two actions: you can just accept it and move on (trusting that as you progress, your understanding will improve) or you can try to figure it out – by using subtitles, rewatching the scene several times, or checking how the lines were dubbed).  It’s up to you to decide whether this system will spoil the watching experience or on the contrary, enhance it.

I would say that as a rule of thumb, the higher your level, the more you can afford to be meticulous about details like this. Nevertheless, for now, give yourself some permission to miss out on some things if your level is intermediate or lower.

Names and places

These can be particularly tricky to identify. You can work around this by doing some prior research to familiarise yourself with at least the main characters and film settings. Make the internet your ally.

Case in point. Say you want to watch The king’s speech in English, you could start by browsing this web first: 

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1504320/

Say you’re unsure how some of the main characters’ names are pronounced, like the unconventional speech therapist who helped King George VI deliver his speech. You can look them up here:

Lionel https://www.howtopronounce.com/lionel/

Logue https://www.howtopronounce.com/logue/

Mumbling and Other Ways of Speaking

Films portray conversations much like real life—characters don’t always speak as clearly and articulately as a newsreader would. On the contrary, some lines are whispered, some are shouted, some are snapped… you get the picture. Take it in your stride and be prepared to miss a few lines here and there—it’s all part of the experience.

Have realistic expectations

I have come across many elementary students who were advised to make rapid progress by watching films in their original version, even when they could barely understand the listening exercises in an A1-A2 students’ book. This led to frustration as it proved to be a poor use of their time and undermined their confidence.

Don’t get me wrong, I believe films are a great learning tool but you need to have realistic expectations and set parameters based on your level and your attitude towards not fully understanding when you’re listening.