Watching foreign films can be a wonderful way to expand one’s cultural horizons and get a glimpse into life and perspectives from other parts of the world. However, it can also be intimidating for those who are not used to it. Here’s a beginner’s guide to watching foreign films.
1. Start with familiar genres or themes
One way to ease into foreign films is to start with genres or themes that you are already familiar with. For example, if you enjoy action movies, try watching a foreign action film. You can also look for films that deal with universal themes such as love, family, and friendship.
2. Research the film and its culture
Before watching a foreign film, it can be helpful to do some research on the film and the culture it is from. This can provide context and help you better understand the film. You can look up reviews, interviews with the filmmakers, and articles about the culture to gain more knowledge.
3. Pay attention to the subtitles
Most foreign films will have subtitles in English or another language. It’s important to pay attention to the subtitles and not get distracted by the visuals. If you’re not used to reading subtitles, it can take some time to get used to it, but it gets easier with practice.
4. Embrace the different perspectives
One of the best things about foreign films is that they offer a different perspective on life and culture. Embrace this difference and try to view the film as a window into another world. You may encounter themes and ideas that are unfamiliar, but keep an open mind and try to learn from them.
5. Watch with friends or in a group
Watching foreign films can be more fun when you do it with friends or in a group. You can discuss the film afterwards and share your thoughts and opinions. It’s also a great way to introduce your friends to new cultures and perspectives.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
If there are parts of the film that you don’t understand or cultural references that are unfamiliar to you, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can look up information online, ask friends who are familiar with the culture, or even ask the filmmakers themselves if they are available.
7. Explore different countries and languages
Finally, don’t limit yourself to films from one country or in one language. There is a wealth of amazing films from all over the world, and watching them can be a great way to learn about different cultures and perspectives. So explore different countries and languages and find the ones that resonate with you.
Watching foreign films can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By following these tips, you can ease into it and discover a whole new world of cinema.
