- Language Matters with Bob Holman (2015)
- The Language You Cry In (1998)
- The Linguists (2008)
- Speaking in Tongues (2009)
- We Still Live Here (2010)
- The Story of English (1986)
- The Human Language Series (1995)
- The Search for the Perfect Language (2007)
- Do You Speak American? (2005)
- The Linguistic Genius of Babies (2017)
Language is not just a tool for communication; it's a window into culture, history, and human identity. This curated list of documentaries delves into the fascinating world of languages, showcasing their beauty, complexity, and the urgent need for their preservation. From the remote corners of the world to the heart of bustling cities, these films explore how languages shape our lives and reflect our heritage. Whether you're a linguist, a language enthusiast, or simply curious about the world, this collection promises to enlighten and inspire.
Language Matters with Bob Holman (2015)
Description: Poet Bob Holman travels the world to explore endangered languages, highlighting the cultural richness they embody.
Fact: The series was part of PBS's initiative to promote cultural diversity and language preservation.
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The Language You Cry In (1998)
Description: This documentary traces the journey of a song from Sierra Leone, preserved through the African diaspora, highlighting the resilience of language.
Fact: It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.
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The Linguists (2008)
Description: Follow two linguists as they race against time to document dying languages, capturing the essence of human diversity before it vanishes.
Fact: The film was shot over three years in seven countries, capturing languages spoken by just a handful of people.
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Speaking in Tongues (2009)
Description: This film looks at bilingual education in America, following four students as they navigate language learning and cultural identity.
Fact: It was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Arts and Culture Programming.
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We Still Live Here (2010)
Description: This documentary tells the story of the Wampanoag tribe's efforts to revive their language, lost for generations, showcasing the power of cultural revival.
Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival.
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The Story of English (1986)
Description: A journey through the history and evolution of the English language, from its Anglo-Saxon roots to its global dominance.
Fact: The series was produced by the BBC and features interviews with notable linguists and writers.
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The Human Language Series (1995)
Description: This three-part series explores the origins, structure, and future of human language, offering insights into how we communicate.
Fact: Hosted by Robert MacNeil, it was one of the first documentaries to delve deeply into linguistic science.
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The Search for the Perfect Language (2007)
Description: An exploration of the quest for a universal language, from Esperanto to Klingon, and how these constructed languages reflect human aspirations.
Fact: The documentary features interviews with creators of artificial languages.
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Do You Speak American? (2005)
Description: A look at the variations of American English, exploring how language reflects social, regional, and cultural differences.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book by Robert MacNeil and William Cran.
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The Linguistic Genius of Babies (2017)
Description: Discover how babies learn languages, showcasing the innate linguistic abilities of infants and the critical period for language acquisition.
Fact: The film features research from leading linguists and psychologists, providing a scientific look at language development.
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