I always find watching TV series a more effective resources than watching films when trying to improve my language skills, as you have more time to get used to character voices, and vocabulary relating to the genre than with a film.
Check out my post on how to develop your “active listening skills” to ensure you make the most of your viewing.
Griselda
If you loved Narcos but got tired of the fact that it would just never pass the Bechdel test, then Griselda is for you. Woman drug lord – lady?, woman copper, and Sofia Vergara’s performance make this a compelling watch.
My only criticism is that the producers shoved a lot into this limited series, meaning that each episode is a significant jump ahead from the last. There are moments you wish they had shown, particularly the intricacies and politics of just how Griselda Blanco built her empire.
Research on Blanco will show you just how much this series is a work of fiction, but I’m never one to quibble about letting the truth get in the way of a cracking watch.
Valeria
I binged this series over the course of about a week. Valeria is insufferably self-pitying but her friends bring some great dynamics to the table. It also offers a really nice snapshot of Madrid and various other highly desirable Spanish locations.
Narcos
I personally prefer the original Narcos to the Mexico version because I found it so enjoyable to watch Wagner Moura, who is actually Brazilian and who learnt Spanish for the role! Now that’s impressive.
Don’t expect to learn very much useful vocabulary watching this one… unless crime, weapons and drugs are part of your day-to-day life.
Watch it on Netflix.
1994
This Mexican documentary series is a sensational watch and a brilliant entry point for those wanting to understand Latin American politics. It covers corruption, assassination, guerilla warfare, you name it. I watched the whole thing in two days.
Entrevías (Wrong Side of the Tracks)
This is hugely popular in Spain and with good reason; ex-soldier Tirso takes in his grand-daughter after she gets mixed up in some dodgy business. There are a number of great characters in this and the series will have you clicking “next episode” again and again.
Watch it on Netflix.
Si lo hubiera sabido (If Only)
I love series that ask the fundamental questions about life and this one definitely does that; protagonist Emma finds herself wondering “how did my life turn out like this?”, and is suddenly launched back in time in, able to live in 2008 as her 2018 self.
This one definitely has a few plot holes, but is an enjoyable watch nonetheless.
Casa de Papel (Money Heist)
Money Heist needs no introduction partly because of its self-explanatory name and poster, and partly because it’s so popular that everyone knows it.
It’s a beast of its own; I found it so tense watching it that I had to take prolonged breaks!
Have you seen these? Are there any other series you highly recommend for improving your Spanish? Comment below!
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