Source : Netflix
Grace Flynn
The power of film can’t be understated, especially when it comes to learning a language. While DuoLingo tries to convince us that learning abstract phrases like ‘my aunty is wearing a purple sweater at the library’ will have you fluent in no time, I’d argue that TV series and movies could be the real ticket to learning a new language and a new culture.
Or at least part of it.
Sparking a passion for the Italian language, culture and history, these streamable Italian-language TV series and movies are sure to have you picking up Italian phrases and colloquialisms in no time.
Rose Island
Where to watch: Netflix
Set in the late 60s, Italian engineer Giorgio Rosa sets about building his very own nation out on a man-made platform in the Adriatic Sea, just outside of Italy’s territorial waters. Available through Netflix, this comedy-drama film tells the incredible story of Rosa’s battle with the Italian authorities in his quest to retain his independent state, L’isola delle Rose. Along with picking up some Italian vocab, this fun and quirky watch tells a true story that is sure to surprise.
Source : Netflix
Trailer link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qS2NtbEoIc8&ab_channel=Netflix
An Astrological Guide for Broken Hearts
Where to watch: Netflix
If you’re looking for a funny, feel-good series, look no further than Guida Astrologica per Cuori Infranti. Based on Silvia Zucca’s best-selling novel of the same name, this witty rom-com series follows heartbroken and hopelessly single Alice as she navigates dating in her 30s, friendship, an intense office romance and the supposed power of the stars. If you don’t watch this for the purpose of picking up modern Italian lingo and dating vocab, be sure to watch it for the drama!
Source: IMDb
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O48gSeQGMC8&ab_channel=Netflix
Suburra: Blood on Rome
Where to watch: Netflix
Directed by Gomorrah’s Stefano Sollima, this gripping and bloody mafia series takes viewers on a journey into Rome’s underbelly. Inspired by true events, this highly rated Netflix series is perfect for those who enjoy a good crime and gangster show. And for those who are looking to pick up a few choice words in Italian.
Source: Netflix
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GcC9kduhO4&ab_channel=Netflix
Generation 56K
Where to watch: Netflix
Exploring the power of the internet and childhood crushes, Generation 56K is another bingeable rom-com Netflix series that’ll have you picking up some Italian vocab in no time. Flipping between present day and the late 90s, this heartwarming series tells a story of love and friendship set on the small island of Procida.
Source: Netflix
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMgg3v0fUOw&ab_channel=Netflix
Made in Italy
Where to watch: Google Play Movies
Set in 70s Milan, Made in Italy follows Irene, a university student who becomes enamoured with the glittering world of Italian fashion (think big brands like Missoni and Giorgio Armani). Exploring the political unrest of the time period, this historical drama series takes a look at Italy’s tumultuous youth revolution, the rise of feminism and the Italian fashion industry.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qg-FJiOHHGY&ab_channel=KylieFlavell
The Hand of the God
Where to watch: Netflix
Directed by Paolo Sorrentino, É stata la mano di Dio was nominated for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars. Set in 1980s Naples, the critically-acclaimed film follows a young Fabietto as he navigates grief and a budding passion for filmmaking. Touching on Italy’s enduring love of football (or more specifically, Maradona), this movie provides insight into Italian culture as well as the fascinating Napoletano dialect.
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_1VW_0i6vo&ab_channel=Netflix
Summertime
Where to watch: Netflix
Another romance series that’ll help you pick up some Italian phrases and colloquial language is Summertime. Set in a small town on the Adriatic coast, the series follows teenagers Ale and Summer who share a powerful attraction despite coming from different worlds.
