Talking about the arts in French
Films, music, painting and books are some of the easiest ways into French: they give you real language, real accents and topics people love to talk about. Being able to say what you like and why is also a practical skill for conversations and speaking tasks.
This guide gives you the vocabulary to describe a work, share an opinion and recommend something, plus tips for using French culture to learn the language.
Giving your opinion about a film, song or book
Go beyond "c'est bien". These phrases let you react and explain.
- J'ai adoré ce film parce que…: I loved this film because…
- Ça m'a beaucoup touché.: It really moved me.
- Je trouve que l'histoire est un peu lente.: I find the story a bit slow.
- Je te le recommande vivement.: I highly recommend it to you.
- Ce n'est pas mon genre.: It's not my kind of thing.
Essential arts vocabulary
Useful whether you're visiting a gallery, choosing a film or reading a review.
- un tableau: a painting
- une exposition: an exhibition
- un réalisateur, une réalisatrice: a film director
- un roman: a novel
- une chanson: a song
- un spectacle: a show, a performance
- les sous-titres: subtitles
Use culture to learn French
Watch with French subtitles rather than English once you can follow the basics: you'll connect sounds and spelling. Pick songs you like and read the lyrics while you listen. Short films and podcasts are easier to finish than long series.
Québec has its own film, music and theatre scene. Watching Québécois productions gets your ear used to the French you'll hear in Canada.
The arts in TEF Canada and TCF Canada
Leisure and culture are common themes in everyday-life documents, such as event listings, reviews and invitations. In speaking, recommending an activity to a friend or giving your opinion about a show is a natural situation to prepare for.
Structure your opinion: give it, give a reason, add an example. "J'ai bien aimé ce spectacle, surtout la musique, parce qu'elle était très originale." Check the official exam sites for the current task formats.
French and the arts: common questions
Can watching French films really improve my French?
Yes, especially your listening and vocabulary, if you watch actively: use French subtitles, replay short scenes and note a few phrases to reuse.
Should I start with Québécois or European French films?
Both are useful. If you're moving to Canada, mixing in Québécois films helps you get used to the accents you'll hear every day.
How do I say I like or dislike something without sounding blunt?
Soften it: "Ce n'est pas trop mon genre" or "J'ai un peu moins accroché" sounds friendlier than "Je n'aime pas".