Top 10 Documentaries on Linguistics

Top 10 Documentaries on Linguistics Languages and Linguistics

Dive into the fascinating world of languages with our curated selection of documentaries. These films not only explore the beauty and complexity of human communication but also delve into the cultural, historical, and social aspects of linguistics. Whether you're a language enthusiast or simply curious about how we communicate, these documentaries offer a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and discoveries that will expand your understanding of the world.

Language Matters with Bob Holman (2015)
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Language Matters with Bob Holman (2015)

Description: Poet Bob Holman travels the globe to explore the power of language, from poetry slams to endangered languages, highlighting the importance of linguistic diversity.

Fact: The series was produced by PBS and features appearances by notable linguists and poets.

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The Language You Cry In (1998)
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The Language You Cry In (1998)

Description: Uncovers the story of a song from Sierra Leone, tracing its roots back to the Gullah people in the United States, revealing the enduring legacy of the slave trade through language.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

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The Linguists (2008)
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The Linguists (2008)

Description: Follow two linguists as they travel to remote parts of the world to document dying languages, showcasing the race against time to preserve linguistic diversity.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Emmy Award in the Outstanding Arts and Culture Programming category.

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Speaking in Tongues (2009)
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Speaking in Tongues (2009)

Description: This documentary follows four students in the U.S. as they navigate the challenges and benefits of bilingual education, highlighting the importance of language learning.

Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival.

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We Still Live Here - Âs Nutayuneân (2010)
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We Still Live Here - Âs Nutayuneân (2010)

Description: Chronicles the revival of the Wampanoag language, extinct for over a century, through the efforts of Jessie Little Doe Baird and her community.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject.

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The Story of English (1986)
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The Story of English (1986)

Description: This series traces the history of the English language from its Anglo-Saxon origins to its global dominance, exploring its evolution and the cultural forces behind it.

Fact: The series was accompanied by a best-selling book of the same name.

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Do You Speak American? (2005)
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Do You Speak American? (2005)

Description: An exploration of the variations in American English, looking at how language reflects social, economic, and cultural changes across the United States.

Fact: The documentary was based on the book by Robert MacNeil and William Cran.

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The Human Language Series (1995)
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The Human Language Series (1995)

Description: This three-part series delves into the origins, structure, and future of human language, with insights from leading linguists and anthropologists.

Fact: Hosted by Robert MacNeil, the series was a follow-up to "The Story of English."

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The Search for the Perfect Language (2012)
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The Search for the Perfect Language (2012)

Description: Examines the quest for a universal language, from historical attempts like Esperanto to modern-day constructed languages, exploring the philosophical and practical implications.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with creators of constructed languages.

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The Etymologicon (2014)
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The Etymologicon (2014)

Description: Based on Mark Forsyth's book, this film traces the curious origins of words and phrases, revealing the interconnectedness of language through history.

Fact: The film was crowdfunded through Kickstarter.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
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