Learn French the Fun Way: 4 Must-Watch Netflix Series for French learners

Learning French doesn’t have to mean slogging through textbooks or repeating phrases from a language app. Why not immerse yourself in the culture while binge-watching some of the best French TV shows Netflix has to offer? Whether you’re a beginner or brushing up on your French, these series combine entertainment with education. Bonus: they’re so good, you’ll forget you’re learning!

1. Fais pas ci, fais pas ça – A French Family Comedy Classic

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, family-oriented show, Fais pas ci, fais pas ça is a fantastic pick. This sitcom follows two neighboring families—the Boulets, who are strict and traditional, and the Lepics, who are free-spirited and modern. The clash of parenting styles and personalities leads to hilarious situations, offering a window into the quirks of French family life.

Why it’s great for learning French:

• Relatable themes: Everyday situations like school, holidays, and family dinners make the language easier to grasp.

• Natural dialogue: Characters speak in a conversational tone, so you’ll pick up useful phrases.

• Cultural insight: From parenting debates to typical French humor, you’ll gain a better understanding of French culture.

My tip: Turn on French subtitles to match what you hear to the text, making it easier to follow along.

2. Lupin – A Riveting Modern Twist on a Classic Story

Part heist drama, part mystery, Lupin follows Assane Diop (played by the charismatic Omar Sy) as he draws inspiration from the fictional gentleman thief Arsène Lupin to outwit his enemies and unravel the secrets of his past. The show combines high-stakes action with a deep dive into class divides and injustice, all set against the stunning backdrop of Paris.

Why it’s great for learning French:

• Clear pronunciation: Omar Sy’s eloquent delivery makes the French accessible, even for beginners.

• Exciting vocabulary: You’ll learn words related to crime, investigation, and everyday life.

• Universal appeal: The gripping plot will keep you engaged, even if you miss a word or two.

Fun fact: The show’s success has made Arsène Lupin a global phenomenon, boosting interest in French literature worldwide!

3. Plan Cœur (The Hook Up Plan) – Romantic Comedy with a Parisian Twist

This modern rom-com revolves around Elsa, a single woman who can’t get over her ex. Her well-meaning friends hire a male escort to help boost her confidence, but their plan spirals into unexpected complications. Set in the heart of Paris, Plan Cœur is as charming as it is funny, offering a fresh take on friendship, love, and millennial struggles.

Why it’s great for learning French:

• Everyday slang: The show is full of modern, colloquial French, perfect for learning how young people actually speak.

• Short episodes: With episodes under 30 minutes, it’s easy to squeeze in a quick lesson.

• Cultural immersion: The show highlights Parisian life, from cozy cafés to awkward dating moments.

Good to know: Take note of idiomatic expressions—you’ll sound like a local in no time!

4. Call My Agent! (Dix pour cent) – Behind the Scenes of French Showbiz

Ever wondered what it’s like to manage the biggest stars in French cinema? Call My Agent! takes you into the chaotic world of a talent agency, where the agents juggle demanding clients, personal drama, and industry crises. With guest appearances from real French actors playing exaggerated versions of themselves, this series is both hilarious and insightful.

Why it’s great for learning French:

• Varied accents: You’ll hear a mix of regional and standard French, giving you a well-rounded ear for the language.

• Industry lingo: It’s a great way to expand your vocabulary beyond the basics with terms from the entertainment world.

• Cultural references: The show is packed with nods to French cinema, offering a mini crash course in the country’s film industry.

Fun fact: This show has been so successful internationally that several countries have created their own adaptations.

My tips to maximize your learning when watching Netflix in French

Of course, you can improve your French watching Netflix! To make the most of your Netflix binge:

• Start with subtitles: Begin with English subtitles if you’re a beginner, but switch to French subtitles as you improve.

• Pause and repeat: Replay tricky scenes to get the hang of pronunciation and context.

• Note new words: Keep a notebook handy to jot down unfamiliar words or phrases.

• Embrace the immersion: Don’t worry about understanding everything—just let the language wash over you.

"Une soirée télé", now?

With these four fantastic Netflix series, learning French can be as enjoyable as your favorite hobby. From family comedy to gripping drama, these shows cater to a variety of tastes while giving you a front-row seat to French language and culture. So grab your popcorn, hit play, and let the learning begin... pour une "soirée télé" en français, bien sûr !