Should you do your lessons, or curl up with a good movie? Well… why not both?! Introducing “Duo’s Film Club,” the newest season of the Duolingo Spanish Podcast, which explores some of the most iconic films from the Spanish-speaking world. You’ll get to practice your listening skills while learning about some of the best movies out there. This new immersive experience is somewhat more advanced than our usual seasons for learners seeking an extra challenge.
Why movies? Movies are like a sneak peek into the real world of Spanish speakers, showcasing vocabulary, idioms, and cultural nuances that you can’t get elsewhere. After careful selection and collecting learner suggestions, our team curated a diverse line-up of films for this special season. Today, we’ll reveal what’s in theaters, er, headphones on this season of the podcast!
The 6 movies we’ll “watch” this season:
El laberinto del fauno (Pan's Labyrinth)
This isn't your average fairy-tale. Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro takes a gritty dive into post-civil war Spain where fantasy and reality collide. Not only does this film pack in historical context and breathtaking visuals, it’ll also expose you to unique Spanish expressions and accents.
Relatos Salvajes
This Argentinian gem, directed by Damián Szifron, is a six-in-one deal! This multi-part film provides a unique snapshot of Buenos Aires' way of life. Each short is infused with Argentina's distinctive dark humor, exposing you to colloquial Argentinian expressions and everyday Spanish.
Como agua para chocolate
“Como agua para chocolate” is: passion, food, and Mexican traditions all baked into one delicious film (and a favorite of our Latinx Duos)! This telenovela-style movie is based on the novel with the same title, written by Laura Esquivel. It’s a love story that takes you on a sensory journey using magical realism, a style and movement synonymous with Latin American literature.
Mujeres al borde de un ataque de nervios
We couldn’t make this season without featuring a film by the acclaimed Pedro Almodóvar. This film is a Spanish comedy at its best: fast-paced, chaotic, and utterly hilarious, reflecting Almodóvar's unique storytelling style. Plus, the rapid-fire dialogues are a great way to challenge and improve your listening skills!
Coco
You might have seen this one already, but in Duo’s Film Club, we reveal why it's more than just a children’s movie. It's a vibrant, musical journey that takes place during the most important Mexican tradition: the Day of the Dead! While the catchy songs help you with your Spanish pronunciation, the depiction of this holiday gives you a deeper understanding of its importance to Mexican culture.
Fresa y chocolate
Ever wondered what Spanish sounds like in Cuba? This movie's your answer. Set during Castro's regime, this film tells the story of an unexpected friendship that blossoms in a challenging time. By the end, you'll not only understand the language better, but you'll also have a deeper appreciation for Cuban history and life.
Lights, camera, practice!
So, here's the plan: Watch these movies and then tune into our podcast, where you’ll hear our host, Martina Castro, and special guests break down the history and culture behind each film. Each episode is the perfect companion to your movie marathon. This way, you're not just learning Spanish; you're living it!
This new season of the Duolingo Spanish Podcast airs January 25th, 2024! Grab your popcorn and save the date. You can listen on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast-listening platform. ¡Nos vemos pronto!