With Spanish being a global language and one that is used widely, it is unsurprising that there are numerous TV shows and movies that use it as their primary dialect.
According to figures, almost half a billion people are thought to speak Spanish as their mother tongue and account for 6.3% of the world’s population, with that figure increasing to approximately 595 million when those who can communicate in the language in addition to their native dialect.
Why are TV shows and Films often used as a learning resource?
Given the plethora of options now available, many will use the movies and TV shows to have been created as a learning resource. Learning a new language can be a difficult activity and one that requires students to be as engaged as possible, as well as dedicated and committed.
Some learners may opt to try an online Spanish course where they can experience a guided learning session through the use of a private tutor who is a native. However, others may decide it is best for them to learn by watching the TV.
Many will feel more engaged in their learning experience when their attention is captured through TV shows and films they watch since this method may prove more engaging than conventional methods of instruction. They can hear and read words being spoken aloud while also reading subtitles simultaneously – this allows them to pick up pronunciation errors and language skills, such as slang, that traditional learning might miss out on providing.
What are the best Spanish-language TV Shows and Movies to learn from?
With a variety of different Spanish options available for those that would rather learn by watching TV shows and films, learners can find that they may have too many choices. Platforms like Netflix and Prime Video have become exceptional streaming resources for those seeking different language options. It is also possible to use YouTube, Dailymotion, and other video hosting sites on the web to watch and learn Spanish shows, as they will often be uploaded to these platforms.
If you are looking for the best TV shows and films to learn Spanish from, you will want to watch some of the following…
Narcos
‘Narcos’ is arguably one of the best Spanish-language shows on Netflix. It is based on the ‘war on drugs’ that has been experienced, with the early seasons of the show focusing on Pablo Escobar and Colombia, while the latter seasons focused on Mexico and individuals such as Miguel Felix Gallardo and ‘El Chapo,’ Joaquín Guzmán. It is heavy in regard to its Spanish language, with the vast majority of the show spoken in the language, featuring numerous phrases and slang.
El Chapo
If you watch ‘Narcos’ or want to find something similar, then ‘El Chapo’ might be the next best show to carry on the Spanish learning experience by watching TV shows and films. As highlighted in the ‘Narcos’ part, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán was one of the main men when Gallardo was jailed and stopped, subsequently becoming one of the most powerful men in the world in this particular ring. He would become the head of the Sinaloa Cartel after being a small-time person in the Guadalajara Cartel initially. The series follows his entire story, thus giving people the chance to learn about him, his impact on the world, and all in Spanish!
La Casa de Papel
Another Spanish-language show that was a hit on Netflix was ‘La Casa de Papel’. In English-speaking countries, it may have the title ‘Money Heist.’ The show follows a story of a man who recruits eight people to help him pull off the biggest bank robbery ever. They target the Royal Mint of Spain and aim to get away with more than €2 billion. However, some challenges remain, as they need to deal with the police and hostages. It ran for five seasons, and with Spanish being its original language, it allows learners to immerse themselves in the language.
Elite
A Spanish drama series, ‘Elite’ is another top offering from Netflix that went on to achieve success, thus making it a popular option for those who wish to learn the language. It follows the story of three students from working-class backgrounds who obtain scholarships to attend an elite private school. While there, drama ensues as a variety of incidents happen (including a murder), which leads to the police becoming involved.
Final Thoughts
TV shows and films can be a great way to learn a new language, and with so many options available in Spanish, the experience can be enjoyable and engaging. However, it is important to make sure any show watched can be followed, as this will help make the language learning process easier. Those outlined above can be considered among the best, but numerous options are available, so it can be best to look around!
