Movie enthusiasts and Language learners
- Jae Byrd Wells
- Feb 11, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 29, 2024
Hi. I'm Jae. I'm the founding member of the Italian Addict Anonymous.
I fell in love with the Italian language from Lady and the Tramp at age 7. At 11, I obsessed over Pompeii. When I was 14, I developed the bad coping mechanism of obsessing over a prominent member of the New York Italian community in order to emotionally save me from mental, physical and sexual abuse. When I was 13, I obsessed over Rome when studying religion roots. I listened and attended some Opera not knowing our acknowledging my obsessions. I researched Venice and used it as a sample for my first published novel because I've been obsessed with gondola since I was 11. After two abusive husbands, my bad coping mechanism increased in 2016 until I left my last emotionally abusive husband in 2021. I started developing good coping skills by studying the Italian language and listening to Italian Rap.
My first completed diamond painting was Venice. When people ask me my bucket list vacations, it would be too visit all the little Italy's in the United States and Mexico. I've studied Italian in college. After I finish the degree I'm working on, I wish I could go to Florida where they have a bachelor's degree in Italian. My bikini is Italian flag even though I'm fat. Since I left my abusive husband, I've accepted my obsession and am no longer afraid to tell people I listen, learn and breathe Italian. I was introduced to a man who taught me that not all men are like my ex and he turned on Italian rap to soothe me when I'm experiencing PTSD.
The Italian language, with its melodic sound and expressive nature, has a compelling history that spans centuries. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins and evolution of the Italian language and explore intriguing dialogues, including a Hebrew-Italian dialogue and a Spanish-Italian dialogue. Italian, descended from Latin, developed from the vernacular spoken in Tuscany during the Middle Ages. It gained prominence in the 14th century with the works of Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarca, and Giovanni Boccaccio. As the Italian city-states flourished, so did the language, evolving into a standard form known as "la lingua italiana." The Hebrew-Italian dialogue is rich in history and cultural exchange. As Jews migrated to Italy in ancient times, Hebrew integrated with the local languages, resulting in a unique blend. Today, some Italian Jews maintain a distinctive Italian dialect with Hebrew influences, known as "Italkian." This dialogue showcases the intermingling of two ancient languages, highlighting the vibrant Jewish community's contributions to Italian linguistic heritage.

Italy and Spain, neighboring countries with shared historical, political, and cultural ties, have influenced each other's languages over the years. While Italian and Spanish are distinct languages, there are similarities in vocabulary, phonetics, and grammar due to their common Latin roots. In regions like Sicily and Sardinia, where Spanish influences are more pronounced, a dialect called "Sicilianu" or "Sardu" has emerged, incorporating Spanish elements into the Italian language. Italian, with its historical, literary, and artistic importance, has left its mark globally. The Italian language influenced many European languages and continues to be valued for its contributions to music, literature, and art. Since the Renaissance, the influence of Italian culture and language has spread worldwide, as seen in the profound impact of the Italian opera, culinary traditions, and fashion industry. The fascinating journey of the Italian language unfolds through its history and its interactions with other cultures. From its origins in medieval Tuscany to its diverse dialogues like Hebrew-Italian and Spanish-Italian, Italian showcases the richness and adaptability of human language. Today, Italian remains not only the official language of Italy but also a symbol of cultural heritage and artistic expression worldwide. By exploring the unique dialogues within Italian, we can appreciate the dynamic nature of language and the interconnectedness of diverse linguistic communities.
How many languages can you speak?
1
2
3+
Please. I only speak American English
For movie enthusiasts and language learners alike, watching films in different languages can be an exciting and enriching experience. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of exploring movies in languages that are not native to you, the advantages of watching cartoons in a foreign language for adult learners, the ideal age for children to be exposed to bilingualism, the linguistic diversity of Africa, the impact of language barriers on misunderstandings, and the empowering and influential nature of language.
Learning a language other than your mother tongue has numerous advantages. It broadens your cultural horizons, enhances cognitive abilities, improves memory and problem-solving skills, and boosts career prospects. Watching movies in different languages provides a practical and engaging way to immerse yourself in the language and appreciate the nuances of the culture. Cartoons are not only for children. Adults learning a new language can also benefit from watching animated shows in their target language. Cartoons often employ simple vocabulary, clear pronunciation, and expressive visuals, making it easier for language learners to grasp the meaning and context. Moreover, cartoons allow adult learners to enjoy a lighthearted and entertaining experience while picking up new words and phrases. Experts suggest that children can begin learning bilingual languages from birth or as early as the age of three. Early exposure to multiple languages enhances cognitive flexibility, linguistic skills, and cultural understanding. Films, shows, and books in different languages catered to children can aid in their language acquisition process while promoting multiculturalism and empathy.
Africa is a continent rich in linguistic diversity, with thousands of languages spoken across its various regions. Watching movies in different African languages exposes us to vibrant cultures and helps break down stereotypes. It also highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous languages that are at risk of being lost.
Language barriers can hinder effective communication and lead to misunderstandings. In a globalized world, being able to understand and communicate in multiple languages is crucial for building connections, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting peace and unity. Language is a source of power, enabling us to express our thoughts, emotions, and ideas. It shapes our worldview, influences our perception of reality, and empowers us to connect with others. Learning new languages expands our perspectives and amplifies our ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes. While language can be empowering, it can also be used as a weapon. Manipulation, propaganda, and hate speech are examples of destructive language use. It is essential to promote responsible and ethical communication to avoid the negative consequences that words can have on individuals and societies.

Watching movies in different languages offers a captivating gateway to learning, cultural exploration, and linguistic development. Whether for personal enjoyment, expanding cultural awareness, or gaining proficiency in a foreign language, films provide an immersive and enjoyable tool for language learners. From childhood to adulthood, embracing multilingualism can open doors to new perspectives, understanding, and connections in an increasingly interconnected world. Let's celebrate the beauty and power of languages while fostering respect and empathy among diverse communities. I own lots of movies in Italian including LOTR. I own all of the Gomorrah series including the movie L'immortale.
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