Planning a trip to Brazil? Learning a new language can be fun and engaging when you immerse yourself in its culture, and what better way to do that than through movies? From gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, these Portuguese-language films and shows offer both entertainment and a chance to pick up new vocabulary and expressions. There are a ton of great Brazilian tv shows and movies to help you learn Portuguese.
Does watching TV really help you learn a language?
Absolutely! Watching TV and movies can be an incredibly effective way to learn a language. It helps you understand pronunciation, get familiar with how the language is spoken in real-life situations (which often differs from the grammar you learn in textbooks), and pick up new vocabulary, including slang. If you’re learning Brazilian Portuguese, Netflix has a fantastic selection of Brazilian Portuguese movies and series that not only entertain but also immerse you in the language and culture.
Brazilian tv shows & movies to help you learn Portuguese
Here are my personal favorite TV shows and movies to add to your watchlist, depending on your level of Portuguese and learning goals.
Easy Watching and Teen Shows
Even if it's not your usual genre choice - teen dramas and lighthearted series are perfect for language learners because they use simple vocabulary and straightforward storylines. These shows are ideal for beginners who want to improve their Portuguese:
Back to 15 (De Volta aos 15): This nostalgic series follows Anita, a 30-year-old who magically returns to her 15-year-old self after an emotional crisis. The show’s mix of youthful slang and reflective adult dialogue provides a great range of language exposure.
Confessions of an Invisible Girl (Confissões de uma Garota Excluída): This cute film tells the story of Tetê, a socially awkward teen navigating high school after transferring to a new school. It’s an endearing introduction to teenage slang and everyday vocabulary.
Airplane Mode (Modo Avião): This lighthearted movie follows Ana, a social media influencer forced to disconnect from her online life and reconnect with her family after a car accident. The dialogue is simple, and the themes are relatable, making it a great pick for beginners.
Tudo por um Pop Star: In this bubbly comedy, three best friends go to great lengths to attend a concert by their favorite boy band. The language is accessible, and the story is full of fun, making it a great way to pick up conversational phrases and cultural references.
Reality TV
Reality TV is one of the best ways to learn Portuguese because it’s packed with casual, conversational language and slang. You’ll hear how people really talk in everyday situations, making it a great way to pick up natural speech patterns and vocabulary:
Love is Blind: Brazil: This dating reality show follows singles as they try to form connections and fall in love—without ever seeing each other. With dramatic confrontations, heartfelt moments, and plenty of slang, it’s a fun way to practice your listening skills.
The Circle: Brazil: In this social media competition, contestants communicate only through a messaging app, crafting their identities to win over others. It’s an excellent way to learn informal language, emojis, and modern Brazilian expressions.
More Great Shows: Advanced Language and Themes
If you’re ready for more challenging language and complex themes, these series offer an excellent opportunity to expand your Portuguese vocabulary and dive deeper into Brazilian culture. These shows include regional accents, idiomatic expressions, and faster-paced dialogue:
Girls from Ipanema (Coisa Mais Linda): Set in the 1950s, this drama follows four women as they navigate personal struggles, romance, and ambition in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a visually stunning series with rich dialogue and cultural insights, ideal for intermediate learners.
Maldivas: This drama-comedy revolves around the residents of a luxurious condo in Rio, each with their secrets and scandals. It's like a Brazilian Desperate Housewives, it’s filled with witty banter and intriguing twists that will keep you hooked.
Nobody’s Looking (Ninguém Ta Olhando): This quirky comedy follows Uli, a rookie guardian angel who questions the strict rules of his supernatural job. The mix of casual conversations and unique fantasy terms makes it an entertaining and slightly offbeat way to learn Portuguese.
The 3%: This dystopian thriller is set in a future where only 3% of the population is allowed to live in a utopian society after passing a rigorous selection process. The fast-paced dialogue and intense themes make it a great choice for more advanced learners.
Edge of Democracy (Democracia em Vertigem): This powerful documentary dives into the tumultuous political history of Brazil, focusing on the rise and fall of two presidents amid corruption scandals and public unrest. With its emotional narration and political discourse, it offers a compelling way to expand your Portuguese vocabulary while gaining insight into Brazil's complex democracy.
Whether you’re just starting to learn Brazilian Portuguese or you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, Netflix offers a wealth of shows and movies to suit every level. From casual reality TV to thought-provoking dramas, these titles not only entertain but also immerse you in the language and culture of Brazil. So grab some popcorn, hit play, and start learning Portuguese the fun way.
Did I miss any great shows? What is your favorite Brazilian show to watch to learn Portuguese?
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