Feature films in English language teaching [Book Review]

Abstract

Most language learners watch feature films as a form of entertainment, and whether they prefer viewing in English or their L1, watching films constitutes an important means by which they interact with an influential cultural product. As a communicative device, most feature films expose learners to language scripted for an L1 audience. Although the language used in films might not be a realistic portrayal of how speakers use language in the real world, films are still authentic resources that can be harnessed for language teaching purposes. In fact, feature films can serve to enhance language learning by acting as a medium with which learners may cognitively and affectively engage in the classroom and in informal learning settings.