8 Movies and TV Shows to Learn Chinese

Learning Chinese can be difficult; however, it can be made easier through entertainment. China is a very large market for Hollywood, so many movies have been adapted for Chinese audiences. Watching movies in Chinese will help to learn spoken Chinese because it exposes you to the use of tones. However, not all Chinese dubs are of the same quality; this blog lists the eight best movie dubs to learn Mandarin Chinese.

1. Toy Story

Many of you reading this blog already know about Toy Story, indeed, this blog article features many well-known movies and TV shows. If you are unfamiliar with Toy Story, it is a film about toys belonging to a kid named Andy. These toys come to life when they are alone, and the main protagonist of the movie is a cowboy toy named Woody. The plot revolves around Woody meeting a new toy Buzz Lightyear and being envious of Buzz’s status as Andy’s favorite toy. If you are familiar with Toy Story, this Mandarin dub is perfect for you to learn spoken Chinese because it is a familiar movie.

2. Mulan

Mulan is another classic Disney movie that follows a Chinese woman that goes to war in place of her father to protect him; however, she must hide the fact that she is a woman. Not only is the classic version available to watch, but it was recently remade into a live action movie. While the adaptations might not accurately capture Chinese culture, the movie is still a great choice for a Mandarin learner to learn spoken Chinese.

3. The Lion King

The Lion King is another Disney classic movie that has been dubbed in Chinese. This story follows Simba, son of the King lion, Mufasa, as he is exiled and blamed for assassinating Mufasa. Much like the other two classic movies on this list, this movie is probably familiar to you. Knowing the plot will allow early Chinese learners to pick up on what is happening.

4. Shang-Chi

This movie was published in both English and Mandarin, which makes it perfect for learners just getting into spoken Chinese. The story follows the son of a Chinese crime boss who is drawn back into his father's world when he is attacked by his fathers men. While the movie does have English dialogue, it uses Mandarin to emphasize points. Beginners will enjoy that there is less effort to understand the film because it will not be entirely in Chinese.

5. Arcane

Arcane is a newer TV show, having been released about a year ago. It has received very high ratings. It follows two sisters that are separated and grow up on opposing sides of the underground of a massive corrupt city. The dub for this program is available on Netflix.

6. Home with Kids

Home with Kids is a sitcom produced in China; it follows two divorced parents that marry and the way the children adapt to their new family. This show is perfect for people that prefer the comedy genre. Of course, since the show was made in China it is great for advanced speakers.

7. Ode to Joy

Ode to Joy is a Chinese television drama that follows a group of five women that live on the 22nd story of an apartment complex called “Ode to Joy.” The show was produced in China; therefore, it is perfect for more advanced speakers.

8. Well-Intended Love

Well-Intended Love is a TV series that follows a D-list actress with leukemia. She needs to marry a powerful CEO to receive a bone marrow transplant so she can continue to act. This is another show produced in China that is great for more advanced speakers.