31 videos to improve English from beginner to advanced

Watching movies is one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to learn English. But why is the cinema useful for improving English for beginners? Unlike traditional educational methods, movies take you to a world of real dialogues, different cultures, and different accents and make it possible for you to experience the language in a natural way and a live and tangible environment. Videos not only introduce you to new vocabulary and frequently used phrases but also help you learn correct pronunciation and how to express sentences in a fun way.

In this article, we introduce the top 31 movies perfect for English language beginners. These movies are a great way to learn the language, with interesting stories, simple and understandable dialogue, and lovable characters.

How do the movies on this list help beginners improve their English?

I also have a question for you: What are the criteria for choosing movies to improve English for beginners on this list?

1. Simple and clear language and understandable dialogues: The films in this list were chosen because they use simple, fluent, and everyday language. Besides this, most of the movies on the list are suitable for all groups and have understandable and practical dialogues.

2. Engaging stories: Learning is always more effective when it is enjoyable. The movies in this list have interesting stories and will take you along with them.

3. Familiar and Relatable Characters: From Toy Story to Forrest Gump, familiar characters help you connect with language more deeply.

4. Familiarity with different accents and cultures: Many of the movies on this list introduce you to different accents of English, such as American, British, and Australian, and improve your listening skills.

5. Learning idioms and colloquial speech: Unlike formal education, videos often include slang and colloquial language that is common in everyday life.

Now let’s get to know 31 movies to improve English, dear beginners:

1. Finding Nemo

Year of Production: 2003

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Andrew Stanton

Main Actors: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould

The story of “Finding Nemo” revolves around the journey of a clown fish named Marlin as he searches for his lost son, Nemo, in the vast ocean. In this journey, Marlin is accompanied by a forgetful fish named Dory and faces great challenges, such as sharks, jellyfish, and humans. Ultimately, this epic story is about the importance of family and the courage to save the ones we love.

2. The Pursuit of Happiness

 Year of production: 2006

Genre: Biography, Drama

Director: Gabriele Muccino

Main actors: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandiwe Newton

“The Pursuit of Happyness” is the inspiring true-life story of Chris Gardner, a man who struggles with financial problems and homelessness but never loses hope. With incredible effort and determination while taking care of her little son, she managed to get a job in an investment company and eventually achieve financial and professional success.

3. Toy Story

Production Year: 1995

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: John Lasseter

Main Actors: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles

Toy Story follows the adventures of Woody, a toy cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear, a new space toy, in the room of a child named Andy. Initially jealous of each other, these two toys must work together to return home and learn that friendship and loyalty are more important than anything else.

4. Forrest Gump

 Year of production: 1994

Genre: Drama, Romance

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Main actors: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise

“Forrest Gump” is the life story of a simple man with a big heart named Forrest Gump, who happens to be in important moments in American history. From the Vietnam War to running across the country, he makes a huge impact on the lives of others with his honesty and kindness, eventually finding his childhood love, Jenny.

5. Frozen

Production Year: 2013

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee

Main Cast: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad

In “Frozen,” Elsa, a queen with ice powers she can’t control, inadvertently plunges her kingdom into an eternal winter. Her sister Anna, along with the mountain man Kristoff and a magical snowman named Olaf, embark on a journey to find Elsa and end winter. In contrast, both sisters learn that true love is a power greater than any magic.

6. The Lion King

Year of production: 1994

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama

Director: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff

Main actors: Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones )

“The Lion King” is the story of Simba, a young lion and heir to the throne, who flees his homeland after the death of his father, Mufasa, and the betrayal of his uncle, Oscar. Finally, Simba faces his past and returns to his homeland with the help of his new friends to bring justice and rule as the true king.

7. Home Alone

Production Year: 1990

Genre: Comedy, Family

Director: Chris Columbus

Main Actors: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern

In-Home Alone, eight-year-old Kevin McCallister accidentally leaves home alone while his family goes on vacation. With courage and creativity, he defeats two inept thieves trying to rob the house. He learns that courage and family are more valuable than anything else. This movie is one of the sweetest and easiest movies for beginners to improve their English.

8. Coco

Production Year: 2017

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family

Director: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina

Main Actors: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt )

“Coco” is the story of Miguel, a young boy who dreams of becoming a great musician. He accidentally goes to the land of the dead and, with the help of his ancestors, tries to discover family secrets and return to the world of the living. This story, centered on love for family and the importance of keeping alive the memory of deceased loved ones, enchants the audience.

9. Finding Dory

Year of production: 2016

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Andrew Stanton

Main actors: Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O’Neill

“In Search of Dory” continues the adventures of Dory, the forgetful blue fish, this time looking for her missing family. With the help of his old friends, Marlin and Nemo, he struggles with problems such as crossing the human sea centers and facing his fears. This story focuses on the power of memory, friendship, and will.

10. The Secret Life of Pets

Year of production: 2016

Genre: animation, adventure, comedy

Director: Chris Renaud

Main actors: Louis C.K. Louis CK, Eric Stonestreet, Kevin Hart

“The Secret Life of Pets” is a happy and exciting story about the lives of pets who, when their owners leave home, embark on a secret and adventurous life. When a new dog arrives in the house, the main character, Max, faces challenges that help him understand the true meaning of friendship and cooperation.

11. Ratatouille

 Production Year: 2007

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Brad Bird, Jan Pinkava

Main Actors: Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano

In Chef Mouse, Remy, a mouse with a special talent for cooking, dreams of becoming a great chef in Paris. Despite severe restrictions and opposition, she finds a way to achieve her dreams with the help of a dishwasher boy named Linguini, proving that no one should be judged by their appearance.

12. Zootopia

Production Year: 2016

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Byron Howard, Rich Moore

Main Actors: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba

“Zootopia” is the story of an animal city where Judy Hopps, the first rabbit of the police, tries to prove herself to her colleagues. He teams up with Nick Wilde, a swindling fox, to solve a complicated case. With messages about acceptance of differences, courage, and the importance of friendship, this story succeeds in conveying valuable lessons.

13. Tangled

Year of Production: 2010

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Nathan Greno, Byron Howard

Main Actors: Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy

“The Riddler” is the story of Rapunzel, a princess with long magical hair who was imprisoned in a tower for years. He escapes with the help of a young thief named Flynn Rider to explore the outside world. In this journey, he faces many challenges and learns that courage and self-belief can overcome any obstacle.

14. Monsters, Inc.

Production Year: 2 001

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Pete Docter

Main Actors: Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Mary Gibbs

In “Monster Factory,” Mike and Sully, two monsters who are busy scaring children in a factory, accidentally encounter a little girl named Bo. This encounter makes them understand the importance of love and affection and changes their work methods. This movie presents a message of friendship and transformation in views. It must be admitted that this movie is the most interesting movie for beginners to improve their English language skills.

15. The Incredibles

Year of production: 2004

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Director: Brad Bird

Main actors: Craig T. Nelson (Craig T. Nelson), Samuel L. Samuel L. Jackson, Holly Hunter

“The Incredibles” is the story of a family with superpowers trying to live a normal life in a world that no longer accepts heroes. When a new threat emerges, they must once again face the enemy as a single team. This movie is about the power of family and the importance of cooperation.

 16. Up

Production Year: 2009

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Pete Docter, Bob Peterson

Main Actors: Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, John Ratzenberger

“Up” is the story of Carl Fredriksen, an old man who inflates his house with thousands of balloons to fulfill his long-held desire for adventure. On this trip, he meets a boy named Russell and learns that the value of life is in companionship and friendship, not in achieving lonely goals.

17. Despicable Me

 Production Year: 2010

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Pierre Coffin, Chris Renaud

Main Actors: Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand

Despicable Me is the story of Gru, a master criminal whose plans to steal the moon are challenged by three orphaned girls. These three girls gradually soften Guru’s hard heart and make him a better person. This story shows that love and family can change even the biggest villains.

 18. Moana

Production Year: 2016

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Ron Clements, John Musker

Main Cast: Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House house)

In Moana, the brave daughter of a tribal chief embarks on a perilous journey across the ocean to save her people in order to retrieve the heart of a goddess. On this journey, he teams up with Maui, a demigod whose past mistakes have caused natural disasters. This story is about discovering identity and courage in the face of great challenges.

19. Shrek

Production Year: 2001

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson

Main Actors: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz

“Shrek” is the story of a green giant named Shrek who inadvertently embarks on a journey to save Princess Fiona. He goes on this adventure with his unwanted friend, a talkative donkey. With a hearty sense of humor, the film portrays messages about self-acceptance and acceptance of others, as well as the importance of friendship.

 20. Finding Forrester

 

Year of production: 2000

Genre: Drama

Director: Gus Van Sant

Main actors: Sean Connery, Rob Brown, F. Murray Abraham (F. Murray Abraham)

“Finding Forrester” is the story of a talented writer named Jamal Wallace who meets a reclusive and famous writer, William Forrester. Together, the two form a close friendship that helps them both overcome their limitations. The film focuses on the power of mentoring and valuing talent.

21. Inside Out

Year of production: 2015

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: Pete Docter

Main actors: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black

“Inside and Out” is the story of Reilly, a young girl whose five main emotions – joy, sadness, fear, anger, and disgust – are always fighting and trying to control. This film creatively shows that all emotions are necessary for a balanced and healthy life.

22. Kung Fu Panda

 

Production Year: 2008

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Director: Mark Osborne, John Stevenson

Main Actors: Jack Black, Ian McShane, Angelina Jolie

“Kung Fu Panda” is the story of Po, a kung fu-loving panda who is unexpectedly chosen as a dragon warrior. With the help of Master Shifu and five other heroes, Poe learns that true power lies in believing in yourself and accepting yourself as you are.

23. Matilda

Year of production: 1996

Genre: Comedy, Family, Fantasy

Director: Danny DeVito

Main actors: Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman

“Matilda” is the story of a smart girl with magical powers who grows up in an irresponsible family. With the help of her kind teacher, Mrs. Honey, she learns to use her powers to fight injustice. This story is about the power of mind and will in the face of difficulties.

24. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

Year of production: 2001

Genre: adventure, family, fantasy

Director: Chris Columbus

Main actors: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint

In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry, an orphan boy, discovers that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts. There, he has adventures with his new friends, Ron and Hermione, and faces an old enemy named Voldemort. This story begins Harry’s great journey to discover his identity and confront the forces of darkness.

25. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

 

Year of production: 1982

Genre: Family, science fiction

Director: Steven Spielberg

Main actors: Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote

“E.T.” is the story of a boy named Elliot who befriends an extraterrestrial being. Elliot and his friends try to find E.T., hide him from the government, and return him to his planet. This film is about friendship, empathy, and the importance of understanding those who come from another world.

26. Night at the Museum

Year of production: 2006

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family

Director: Shawn Levy

Main actors: Ben Stiller, Carla Gugino, Ricky Gervais

In Night at the Museum, Larry, the new keeper of the Natural History Museum, discovers that due to an ancient spell, all of the museum’s exhibits come alive every Night. He must maintain order in the museum and prevent unwanted incidents. This movie is full of adventure, comedy, and educational moments.

27. Jumanji

Production Year: 1995

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family

Director: Joe Johnston

Starring: Robin Williams, Kirsten Dunst, Bonnie Hunt

“Jumanji” is the story of a mystery game that brings dangerous creatures and events to the real world. With the help of Alan Parrish, a man who has been trapped in the game for years, the two children try to end the game so that everything can go back to normal. This movie is full of excitement, adventure, and lessons about courage.

28. Enchanted

Production Year: 2007

Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family

Director: Kevin Lima

Main Actors: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden

“Enchanted” is the story of Gisele, a Disney princess who comes from her animated world to the real world of New York. She faces new challenges and cultural differences and learns that true love is more than just a fairy tale. This movie is a combination of comedy, adventure, and romance.

29. A Bug’s Life

Production Year: 1998

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Director: John Lasseter

Main Actors: Kevin Spacey, Dave Foley, Julia Louis-Dreyfus

In “An Insect’s Life,” Flick, a creative and innovative person, tries to escape from the locusts that are exploiting his colony. He brings in a group of circus insects mistaken for heroes. Still, together, they learn that any challenge can be overcome with cooperation and creativity.

30. Tarzan ( Tarzan )

Production Year: 1999

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family

Director: Kevin Lima, Chris Buck

Main Actors: Tony Goldwyn, Minnie Driver, Brian Blessed

Synopsis: Tarzan is a man raised by gorillas in the jungles of Africa. When she encounters humans, she must decide where she truly belongs: the jungle and the gorillas or the human world. Tarzan is one of the most classic animations in history.

31. The Wizard of Oz

Year of production: 1939

Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy

Director: Victor Fleming

Main actors: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger

“The Witch of the City” is the story of Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas who is transported by a tornado to a magical land. Together with his friends, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, he goes on a journey to find the town’s witch and return home. This story is about friendship, courage, and the power of dreams.

 What movie do you recommend for language learning?

Choosing a movie to improve beginner’s English can be a personal and unique experience. Each film offers a different story and a specific way of conveying language and culture. If you know a particular movie that helped you learn the language, suggest it to us and others. Do you think the film is useful for beginners to improve their English language skills?