![13 Best Films on Netflix to Learn Italian [For Beginners]](/blog/content/images/size/w1200/2023/10/Spanish-1-4.png)
Italian is a captivating and melodious language that has won the hearts of language learners around the world.
Learning Italian can be an exciting journey, and what better way to do it than by watching Italian movies on Netflix?
Italian movies offer a window into the Italian way of life, allowing you to pick up the language's nuances and cultural insights.
In this guide, we've handpicked the best Italian movies on Netflix that provide opportunities to learn while you watch and have fun, and all are available in Lingopie with a Netflix extension on Chrome.
Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your Italian, these films will transport you to Italy and help you along the way. Let's dive into the world of Italian cinema and language learning together.
Lingopie: Learn Italian with Movies
Lingopie is an innovative platform that combines language learning with netflix. With Lingopie, you can immerse yourself in Italian language and culture through movies. The platform provides interactive subtitles that allow you to click on any word or phrase for an instant translation, making it easy to learn new vocabulary and understand complex phrases in context. Lingopie also includes features like flashcards and review games to reinforce what you've learned. By watching movies on Lingopie, you can improve your comprehension, pronunciation, and vocabulary skills in a fun and engaging way.
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1. "La vita davanti a sé" (The Life Ahead)
"The Life Ahead" is a poignant and powerful Netflix drama that tells the story of a Holocaust survivor named Madame Rosa, played by the iconic Sophia Loren. Set in the beautiful seaside town of Bari in Italy, Madame Rosa forms an unlikely friendship with a 12-year-old street kid from Senegal named Momo. As their relationship deepens, they discover they have more in common than they initially thought, and they help each other navigate the challenges that life throws at them.
For learners of Italian, "The Life Ahead" provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the language. The film's dialogue is rich with colloquial expressions and regional dialects, providing an authentic glimpse into how Italian is spoken in everyday life. Moreover, the movie explores various aspects of Italian culture, from its diverse communities to its historical events, offering additional context that can enhance language learning. The subtitles can also be used as a tool to improve understanding and pronunciation. By watching "The Life Ahead", you can enrich your Italian vocabulary, enhance your listening skills, and deepen your understanding of Italian culture
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Milena Quaresma
2. "La Vita è Bella" (Life is Beautiful)
"La Vita è Bella" (Life is Beautiful) is an Italian classic set against the backdrop of World War II. This movie tells the story of a father who uses humor to shield his young son from the harsh realities of a concentration camp.
This touching tale of love and resilience has gained international acclaim. By watching it with Italian subtitles ( or English subtitles if you are a beginner), learners can grasp the nuances of Italian, including historical jargon.
The film is suitable for intermediate to advanced learners. Notably, the actors, including the brilliant Roberto Benigni, are Italian, and Benigni won an Oscar for his outstanding performance.
It's a must-see for both film enthusiasts and Italian learners. Please note that this movie is a heartbreaking one but it is one of the best Italian language movies in the world.
3. "È stata la mano di Dio" (The Hand of God)
"The Hand of God" is a captivating Netflix drama directed by Paolo Sorrentino. Set in Naples during the 1980s, the series offers a semi-autobiographical account of Sorrentino's own adolescence. The story follows the life of Fabietto Schisa, a young boy with a passion for football, who is navigating his way through family, love, and loss. The narrative is beautifully intertwined with historical events, including the 1986 World Cup, where Diego Maradona led Italy to victory. The show is full of vibrant characters, rich dialogues, and a captivating narrative that paints a vivid picture of life in Naples during this period.
For learners of Italian, "The Hand of God" provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the language. The dialogue is rich with colloquial expressions and Neapolitan dialect, offering an authentic glimpse into the regional variations of the Italian language.
3. 18 Presents
"18 Presents" is a heartfelt Netflix drama that tells the story of Anna, a mother who leaves behind 18 presents for her unborn daughter before she dies of a terminal illness. Each gift is to be opened on her daughter's birthday, from her first year to her eighteenth. As her daughter, Elisa, grows up and opens each gift, she learns more about her mother and the love she had for her. The film is a touching exploration of mother-daughter relationships, love, and loss.
For learners of Italian, "18 Presents" provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the language. The dialogue is rich with everyday Italian expressions and phrases. For instance, you might hear phrases like "Buon compleanno, Elisa" (Happy birthday, Elisa), or "Ti voglio bene, mamma" (I love you, mom), providing an authentic glimpse into conversational Italian. For example, in a scene where Anna says, "Non importa quanto tempo abbiamo, ma come lo usiamo" (It doesn't matter how much time we have, but how we use it), you can pause and replay to better grasp the sentence structure. Try to mimic the pronunciation of the characters to improve your speaking and listening skills. By watching "18 Presents", you can enrich your Italian vocabulary, enhance your listening skills, and gain a deeper understanding of Italian culture.
4. A Classic Horror Story
"A Classic Horror Story" is a thrilling Netflix horror film that takes you on a chilling journey through the dark heart of Italy. The story follows five carpoolers who, after an accident, find themselves stranded in the middle of nowhere. They stumble upon a mysterious cabin in the woods, where they're forced to confront their darkest fears and fight for survival. The film masterfully blends elements of traditional Italian folklore with modern horror tropes, creating a unique and terrifying cinematic experience.
For learners of Italian, "A Classic Horror Story" provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the language. The dialogue is rich with colloquial expressions, regional dialects, and suspenseful phrases, offering an authentic glimpse into conversational Italian.
5. "Il Postino" (The Postman)
This is a heartwarming film about a postman who befriends the poet Pablo Neruda on an Italian island.
Its popularity is attributed to its poignant portrayal of friendship, love, and the power of poetry.
Watching this movie can provide learners with insights into romantic Italian expressions, particularly through the poetic conversations between the characters.
It's suitable for all levels of Italian learners, from beginners to advanced. The actors are indeed Italian, with the iconic Massimo Troisi delivering a notable performance.
"Il Postino" is also known for receiving acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival, further solidifying its place in Italian cinema history.
6. "Il mio nome è vendetta" (My Name is Vendetta)
"My Name is Vendetta" is a gripping Netflix thriller set in the heart of Rome. The series follows the life of Marco Vendetta, a former undercover agent who returns to his old neighborhood to seek justice for his family's unsolved murder. As Vendetta navigates the city's dark underworld, he uncovers a web of corruption that goes deeper than he ever imagined. The series is packed with suspense, complex characters, and a vivid portrayal of Rome's gritty side.
For learners of Italian, "My Name is Vendetta" is a practical and engaging way to dive into the language. The dialogue is rich with colloquial expressions and Roman dialect, providing an authentic glimpse into the regional variations of Italian. For instance, you might hear phrases like "Che c'è?" (What's up?) or "Stai attento!" (Be careful!). The series also explores various aspects of Italian culture and lifestyle, further enhancing language learning. By watching "My Name is Vendetta" with Italian subtitles, you can enrich your vocabulary, improve your listening skills, and gain a better understanding of sentence structure and pronunciation. For example, you might come across the sentence "Non posso credere che sia successo" (I can't believe that happened), which can help you understand the use of reflexive verbs in Italian. It's a thrilling way to learn Italian while enjoying a captivating crime drama.
7. "The First Beautiful Thing" (La Prima Cosa Bella)
This Italian film tells the story of a woman and her relationships with her family, particularly her mother.
It's known for its touching portrayal of familial bonds and life's ups and downs.
Suitable for learners at all levels, this movie provides learners with insights into everyday Italian life and family dynamics.
The actors are primarily Italian, and the film's cast delivers authentic performances.
While it doesn't feature any globally famous actors, the film draws you into its engaging narrative with a deep connection to Southern Italy's culture and the warmth of native speakers.
8. "Rapiniamo il Duce"(Robbing Mussolini)
"Robbing Mussolini" is an engaging Netflix drama set in Italy during the turbulent 1930s. The film follows the audacious plot of a group of daring thieves who plan to rob none other than the infamous dictator, Benito Mussolini. The narrative weaves a tale of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected alliances, all set against the backdrop of Fascist Italy.
For learners of Italian, "Robbing Mussolini" offers a rich source of language learning. The dialogue is filled with colloquial expressions and historical references, providing an authentic glimpse into the Italian language as spoken during this era. For instance, you might hear phrases like "Stiamo per fare la storia" (We're about to make history), or "Questo è un colpo di genio" (This is a stroke of genius). You might also see "Dobbiamo agire con cautela" (We must act with caution), which can help you understand the use of modal verbs in Italian. It's an exciting way to learn Italian while enjoying a captivating historical drama.
9. "A Ciambra"
"A Ciambra" is a coming-of-age story set in a Romani community in Calabria, Italy. Its popularity arises from its portrayal of everyday life in a marginalized community, showcasing the resilience of its inhabitants.
Watching this movie offers insights into the unique culture and language of the Romani people in Southern Italy.
While not ideal for beginners due to regional accents and dialects, it's excellent for intermediate to advanced learners aiming to hone their language skills.
The film features primarily Italian actors, including Pio Amato, who delivers a remarkable performance.
"A Ciambra" provides a rare glimpse into an often-overlooked aspect of Italian society, making it a compelling choice for language learners and film enthusiasts alike.
10. "Sulla Stessa Onda" (Caught By a Wave)
"Caught by a Wave" is a touching Netflix drama set on the breathtaking Sicilian coast. The film tells the story of Sara and Lorenzo, two young and free-spirited souls who fall passionately in love during a summer vacation. However, their blossoming romance is tested when Sara's debilitating illness takes a turn for the worse. The film beautifully captures the ups and downs of their relationship, the power of first love, and the resilience of the human spirit.
For learners of Italian, "Caught by a Wave" offers an immersive language learning experience. The dialogue is filled with colloquial expressions and cultural references, providing an authentic glimpse into conversational Italian. For instance, you might hear phrases like "Cosa stai facendo?" (What are you doing?), or "Ti amo, Sara" (I love you, Sara). "Non posso vivere senza di te" (I can't live without you), which can help you understand the use of prepositions in Italian. It's a heartwarming way to learn Italian while enjoying a captivating love story.
11. "They Call Me Jeeg" (Lo Chiamavano Jeeg Robot)
This is an Italian superhero film with a unique twist, following a small-time criminal who gains superhuman abilities. Its popularity is due to its fresh take on the superhero genre, blending gritty realism with extraordinary powers.
Watching this movie can provide learners with insights into urban slang and colloquial Italian, particularly in a contemporary context.
It's suitable for intermediate to advanced learners due to the use of urban jargon. The film features Italian actors, including Claudio Santamaria, who delivers a compelling performance.
"They Call Me Jeeg" is an exciting choice for those interested in exploring Italian cinema's diverse genres, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero narrative.
12. "L'incredibile storia dell'Isola delle Rose" (Rose Island)
"Rose Island" is a captivating Netflix comedy-drama based on the incredible true story of Giorgio Rosa, an engineer who, in 1968, declared independence from Italy and established his own nation on a man-made platform in the Adriatic Sea. The film beautifully captures Rosa's determination, ingenuity, and defiance, and provides an insightful look into a fascinating chapter of Italian history.
For learners of Italian, "Rose Island" offers a rich source of language learning. The dialogue is filled with colloquial expressions and phrases that provide an authentic glimpse into conversational Italian. For instance, you might hear phrases like "Che cosa stai facendo?" (What are you doing?), or "Questo è incredibile!" (This is incredible!). The film also explores various aspects of Italian culture and history, further enhancing language learning. By watching "Rose Island" with Italian subtitles, you can enrich your vocabulary, improve your listening skills, and gain a better understanding of sentence structure and pronunciation. For example, you might come across the sentence "Stiamo costruendo una piattaforma" (We are building a platform), which can help you understand the use of continuous tense in Italian. It's an entertaining way to learn Italian while enjoying a captivating historical drama.
13. "The Last Man on Earth" (L'Ultimo Uomo della Terra)
Now, we have something for Geeks and Sci-Fi enthusiasts. "The Last Man on Earth" (L'Ultimo Uomo della Terra) is a post-apocalyptic science fiction film.
It follows the story of the apparent sole survivor of a global pandemic, battling loneliness and existential questions. The film's popularity arises from its compelling exploration of human solitude and resilience in the face of adversity.
Viewers can learn about survival, isolation, and introspection through this movie, which is suitable for intermediate to advanced learners.
The film predominantly features Italian actors, and while it may not include globally famous actors, it offers a thought-provoking perspective on human nature and the enduring human spirit.
"The Last Man on Earth" serves as a captivating addition to Italian cinema's diverse range of genres.
FAQs: Best Movies on Netflix to Learn Italian
Here, you can find answers to common questions about the use of movies to learn Italian, and how they can enhance your Italian skills.
Can you learn Italian on Netflix?
Yes, you can learn Italian on Netflix. The platform offers a variety of Italian-language content, including movies, TV shows, and documentaries, providing an immersive language-learning experience.
Can I learn Italian by watching Italian movies?
Absolutely! Watching Italian movies on Netflix is an enjoyable way to learn the language. You can pick up vocabulary, and expressions, and improve your listening skills while being entertained.
Are there any Italian movies on Netflix?
Yes, Netflix hosts a collection of Italian movies with a range of genres and topics. These films are excellent resources for language learners and those interested in Italian culture.
Can you learn Italian just by watching TV?
While watching TV alone may not make you fluent, it's a valuable supplement to language learning. It exposes you to real-life conversations, accents, and cultural nuances, helping you improve your Italian skills over time.
Summing Up: Best Movies on Netflix to Learn Italian
With a Lingopie subscription and access to the Netflix Chrome extension, learners can immerse themselves in the beauty of Italian cinema while honing their language skills.
From heartwarming dramas to thrilling tales, these films provide a window into the Italian language and culture. With a diverse selection at your fingertips, Lingopie proves to be a cost-effective and engaging platform for anyone eager to embark on a language-learning journey.
So, sit back, enjoy the cinematic wonders, and let Italian flow into your world at an affordable price. Learning Italian has never been so fun, right?
