French TV

June 18, 2009 7:15 AM

What are some French language TV shows I can watch for free online that will help me improve my French? I'm looking for shows at different levels (maybe kids shows for when I'm watching while working and then talk shows or sitcoms for when I can pay more attention.)

So far I really like "Petit Vampire," the animated Joann Sfar series. Also someone recommended "Le Dessous des Cartes", a program on geopolitics and "Ce Soir ou Jamais." I'm at a low-intermediate level but dont mind if I cant understand everything that is said, it just helps a lot to hear French in dialogue.

Basically, what are your favorite shows? Are there any dubbed American sitcoms that might be helpful? Also, are there places to watch dubbed American movies for free on the web (yes I know, dubbing is horrible but it helps when youre familiar with the movie already). I know there are tons of threads on ask mefi for language tools, but I havent found any on TV shows specifically.

posted by minicloud to Education (11 answers total)

Well, this isn't quite what you asked, but personally I like to watch DVDs of English-language shows I'm familiar with that have a French-language track. I find this useful because I already know the English words since I've seen the show before, and it lets me compare the translation and I can learn French colloquialisms. Example: I'll watch a Simpsons DVD in French, sometimes with French subtitles also. Most DVDs including movies have French language tracks so there should be already be lot to choose from if you have a DVD collection.
posted by Lobster Garden at 7:41 AM on June 18, 2009

Last night in French class we watched part of a Simpsons episode with French dialogue on Dailymotion.com.
posted by dyobmit at 7:43 AM on June 18, 2009

Look into some movies (for when you have the time to really concentrate)! I really enjoy watching Truffaut's La nuit americaine, because:
1. Pieces of the film are in English, so you have guaranteed periodic points at which you'll fully understand what's going on.
2. It's a really enjoyable story, and much quicker-paced than some other Truffaut films.
3. It came out in 1973, so there are some great fashions and hairstyles.
posted by oinopaponton at 7:59 AM on June 18, 2009

If you're ok with kids shows, check out Telefrancais. You can't beat it for 80s cheese and absurdity.
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 8:14 AM on June 18, 2009

Engrenages, you'll have to buy it on DVD though.
posted by fire&wings at 9:13 AM on June 18, 2009

Yes! Telefrancais! Monsieur Ananas! Now I'll never get the theme song out of my head.

For more cheesy 80s and a bit more instruction there's always French in Action. You can watch them free here. Follow the romantic adventures of Mirielle, her annoying younger sister and the stern professor who just wants you to learn French.

Telefrancais...Telefrancais...
posted by Constant Reader at 10:05 AM on June 18, 2009

Sorry, I realized I left out what you were asking for - actual TV shows. A good start might also be Babar or Tin Tin.
posted by Constant Reader at 10:09 AM on June 18, 2009

Teles a Claques. Funny in french, not as funny in english.

You could also watch or listen to anything on CBC.
posted by blue_beetle at 11:04 AM on June 18, 2009

Response by poster: These are all great suggestions!

I never realized they made tin tin into a show. Is it animated or live action and where can I find it (not on Daily Motion apparently).
posted by minicloud at 11:38 AM on June 18, 2009

Les guignols de l'info (it's sort of like "The Daily Show", but with puppets!).
posted by estherbester at 3:19 PM on June 18, 2009

Odd but great are the bewitched episodes in french on youtube

Should work for what you are looking for - my sister learned English by watching Bewitched!

Also - there's a great iphone app called FRANCE 24 which carries daily news broadcasts. I've always found those useful.
posted by la dauphine at 11:35 AM on June 19, 2009