In today’s interconnected world, learning a new language has become both a valuable skill and a rewarding hobby. One of the most engaging ways to immerse yourself in a foreign language is by watching TV dramas. Netflix offers a plethora of international TV series that not only provide gripping stories but also serve as excellent resources for language learners. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, these dramas can help you improve your listening skills, expand your vocabulary, and get a feel for cultural nuances. Here are the best 7 international TV dramas on Netflix that language learners should not miss.
1. Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) – Spanish (2017)
This Spanish heist crime drama has gained a massive following worldwide. Following the story of a group of robbers who plan and execute a heist on the Royal Mint of Spain, “Money Heist” is filled with suspense, complex characters, and twists that keep viewers hooked. Its clear dialogue and colloquial Spanish make it an excellent choice for learners looking to improve their conversational skills.
2. Dark – German (2017)
“Dark” is a science fiction thriller from Germany that revolves around time travel and the interconnectedness of four estranged families. The intricate plot and intense atmosphere will captivate you, while the high-quality German dialogue provides a great way to enhance your language proficiency, particularly in understanding different accents and dialects within German.
3. The Rain – Danish (2018)
This Danish post-apocalyptic series is set in a world where a virus carried by rain wipes out almost all humans in Scandinavia. The series follows two siblings as they search for safety and answers. The relatively slow pace of the dialogue and the clarity of the Danish spoken make it suitable for intermediate learners looking to get a grip on Scandinavian languages.
4. Call My Agent! (Dix pour cent) – French (2015)
Set in a Parisian talent agency, “Call My Agent!” combines comedy and drama as it portrays the lives of agents who manage the careers of France’s top actors. The show is rich in cultural references and offers a fantastic insight into contemporary French language and society, making it perfect for those who want to refine their French listening and comprehension skills.
5. Kingdom – Korean (2019)
“Kingdom” is a historical horror thriller from South Korea that mixes political intrigue with a zombie apocalypse. Set in the Joseon period, the series is visually stunning and the dialogue is rich with historical and cultural context. For Korean language learners, this show provides a mix of modern and traditional Korean, enhancing both vocabulary and historical language understanding.
6. Fauda – Hebrew and Arabic (2015)
This Israeli series dives into the complex world of Israeli-Palestinian conflict, focusing on a top Israeli agent and his team as they pursue a Hamas terrorist. “Fauda” is lauded for its realistic portrayal and bilingual dialogue, offering learners a unique opportunity to pick up both Hebrew and Arabic through intense and emotional storytelling.
7. Lupin – French (2021)
Inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, a gentleman thief and master of disguise, “Lupin” is a modern take on classic French literature. The series follows Assane Diop as he seeks to avenge his father’s death. Its engaging plot and contemporary French make it an excellent resource for language learners aiming to improve their conversational French and understanding of modern cultural references.
