When learning a new language, it helps to immerse yourself in it and what better way than by watching films? As well as giving you the opportunity to learn new words through the script, the use of music will solidify your knowledge. Plus, it’s entertaining and many of the films below are suitable for all ages. Festive blockbusters will not only get you in the Christmas spirit but will also help you improve your English skills.
Here are the best Christmas films for anyone looking to increase their vocabulary and become more fluent at both understanding and speaking English.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
A Christmas staple in many English-speaking households, this Frank Capra classic is a touching film that will help you develop your language skills. James Stewart is perfect in the role of a down-hearted man who feels the world would be better without him in it and the overriding message of the film is one of hope. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to watch a heart-warming feel-good movie this Christmas season.
Love, Actually (2003)
This popular festive romance is bursting with celebrity stars including Emma Thompson, Liam Neeson and Hugh Grant. Both touching and funny, by watching this you will be sure to develop an understanding of British humour as well as extending your vocabulary by taking note of the dialogue. Many everyday words and phrases are used throughout the film as well as situational language relating to families, emotions and (naturally) Christmas. It’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys hopeful love stories set against a Christmas backdrop and one of the best films to improve English.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
If you are looking for a modern twist on a classic Charles Dickens story, you might not immediately think of a film starring Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. However, this warm and endearing reincarnation of A Christmas Carol is a perfect way to perfect your English as well as being suitable for children as well as adults. Be aware that you may need to concentrate harder than normal to understand the voices of the puppet characters, but Michael Caine is a delight and the epitome of an Englishman.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
One of the many films demonstrating the comedy genius of Jim Carrey, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a family favourite during the festive season. Not only will it teach you new words that will develop your Christmas vocabulary, but it’ll remind you of why the festive season is so important through its charming storytelling and use of music. ased on the Dr Seuss story, you could always read the book first to familiarise yourself with the themes and language.
Home Alone (1990)
An ideal family film about Kevin, one of the McAllister children, who gets left behind in his family home as the rest of his family go on a Christmas vacation. As he protects the house from two criminals who are out to steal Christmas presents and ruin the festive season, he sets elaborate traps which has hilarious consequences that will appeal to children and adults alike. The slapstick film is great for anyone learning to speak English as it uses everyday vocabulary and simple sentences which will help you learn structure and word order.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Comedian Tim Allen stars in this nineties comedy which will help you learn to understand the English language spoken in a typical American accent. Not only will it help you learn about the differences between American and English use of language (such as the use of Santa Claus and Father Christmas) but it will also give you a deeper cultural understanding which will only help improve your connection as you develop your English skills.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Everyone loves a Tim Burton movie for his clever way of putting a gothic twist on a tale and The Nightmare Before Christmas does exactly what you would expect. Jack Skellington plans to kidnap Santa Claus and this dark musical will keep you entertained as well as giving you plenty of opportunities to learn unfamiliar words and phrases. Sing along to the tunes and you will soon find you are developing your pronunciation as well as building up a rich and diverse vocabulary. Children will also love this family film that mashes Hallowe’en and Christmas so if you are looking for English films to improve English, this is a wonderful choice.
You will soon find that you are able to recognise more words and phrases if you watch these Christmas films so get into the traditional English Christmas spirit by watching these popular movies, eating warm mince pies with cream, and drinking a festive drink such as eggnog or mulled wine. This is such a fun way to spend your time you’ll forget you are learning!
