International Students: On-Screen Representation

Movies are a powerful medium that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. They can be particularly impactful for international students, offering a glimpse into different cultures, languages, and universal themes of love, loss, and identity. Beyond just storytelling, films serve as mirrors reflecting the challenges and triumphs that shape our diverse world. For international relations students, movies provide a unique perspective on political ideals and the complexities of diplomacy. They showcase thrilling plots, exciting action sequences, and individuals who have made a difference, inspiring viewers to strive for positive change. Ronny Chieng: International Student, a comedy series, offers a raw and accurate portrayal of university life through the eyes of a Malaysian student studying law in Australia. As international students navigate new cultures and education systems, movies can be their companions, offering guidance, shattering fears, and healing their souls.

International students' experiences navigating new cultures and education systems

International students often face challenges when navigating new cultures and education systems. The experience of studying abroad can be exciting and enriching, but it can also be overwhelming. One of the most common challenges is the language barrier, which can make it difficult to communicate and connect with locals. To overcome this, international students can take language classes or participate in language exchange programs before their move. This helps them learn the local language and facilitates their navigation of the new environment.

Additionally, cultural differences can lead to a phenomenon known as "culture shock," which is characterised by psychological and emotional discomfort. Students may feel frustrated, lost, overwhelmed, anxious, or confused due to differences in daily life, communication, and social norms. To manage culture shock, students can seek support from fellow international students, join student groups, and utilise campus resources. Learning about the host culture and its customs can also help reduce misunderstandings and foster a sense of belonging.

Movies can play a significant role in helping international students navigate new cultures and education systems. Films can act as language teachers, guiding viewers through unknown dialects and unfamiliar situations. They can also provide comfort and inspiration by reflecting diverse stories and characters that resonate with the audience. Watching movies can be a shared joy with friends and can help international students step out of their comfort zones, explore new worlds, and navigate the complexities of their journeys.

Research has increasingly focused on the experiences of international students, including the challenges and positive aspects of their journeys. These studies have informed policies and practices to better support international students. However, some scholars argue that a shift from focusing on experiences to practices is needed to highlight the agency and contributions of international students in higher education.

How movies can help international students with language learning

Movies can be powerful tools for international students learning a language. They offer a window into a new culture, providing a deeper understanding of the language and its associated body language and slang. This can be especially beneficial for international students who are navigating a new culture and education system. Watching movies can be an effective way to learn a language as it teaches you to connect words with associated body language and exposes you to authentic vocabulary in context.

Watching movies in a foreign language can be an enriching and enjoyable experience. It can give students a new perspective and expose them to creative and complex storytelling. International films often focus on relatable, universal themes of love, loss, and identity, which can help students improve their language skills while also exploring diverse human stories.

To effectively use movies for language learning, it is important to select the right films. While cinematic appeal is important, it is not the only criterion. Students should choose movies with natural dialogue and situations that will expose them to a wide range of vocabulary and slang. It is also beneficial to re-watch movies, first with and then without subtitles, to improve comprehension and test their progress.

Streaming services offer a wide variety of foreign-language films, with Spanish and French films being particularly abundant. However, for certain languages like Dutch and Polish, it may require a bit more effort to find suitable movies. Websites like Vimeo and YouTube provide access to short films and viral videos that can be excellent resources for language learning.

Teachers have also recognized the benefits of using movies in the language classroom and are increasingly integrating film into the language-learning syllabus. This trend is supported by the wealth of online resources now available, including lesson plans and activities based on film clips, short films, and viral videos.

International relations movies that inspire and educate

International relations is a broad and complex topic that encompasses a range of themes, including diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights, nationalism, and globalization. It's no surprise then that filmmakers have been drawn to these stories, creating narratives that both entertain and inspire, while also shedding light on important issues. Here are some examples of international relations movies that fit the bill:

Lumumba

This movie explores the life and legacy of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba. It delves into the themes of decolonization, nation-building, the Pan-Africanist movement, and the Cold War. The film is a powerful reminder of the complex dynamics at play during the struggle for independence and the challenges of post-colonial nation-building.

The Battle of Algiers

Set in French-occupied Algeria, this film captures the intense liberation movement and the counter-insurgency tactics employed by the French. It provides a raw and thought-provoking perspective on decolonization, counter-insurgency strategies, and the ethical implications of asymmetric warfare.

District 9

A unique take on the themes of apartheid, refugees, and multinational corporations, this movie is set in a world where an alien spaceship hovers over Johannesburg, South Africa. It explores the complex dynamics of segregation and the ethical dilemmas that arise when dealing with "the other."

Thirteen Days

The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 is brought to life in this film, showcasing the intense brinkmanship, foreign policy decision-making, and Cold War tensions of the era. It offers a gripping portrayal of how international relations can teeter on the edge of catastrophe.

The West Wing

While this is a TV series rather than a movie, it deserves an honourable mention for its insightful portrayal of liberalism, terrorism, and free trade, all within the context of American politics. It showcases the complexities of policy-making and the challenges of governing a diverse nation.

These films provide a window into the complex world of international relations, offering a blend of entertainment and education. They spark discussions, encourage critical thinking, and deepen our understanding of the dynamics shaping our world.

Portrayals of international students in comedy series

International students are represented in movies and TV shows, with some productions focusing specifically on the experiences and adventures of students studying abroad. One such example is the comedy series "Ronny Chieng: International Student," which aired in 2017 on ABC in Australia and later on various Comedy Central platforms internationally. The series is a fictionalized account of comedian Ronny Chieng's own experiences as a Malaysian law student at the University of Melbourne in Australia.

The series offers a raw and unfiltered portrayal of university life, showcasing the Melbourne campus in all its authenticity. While some characters fall into stereotypes, the show accurately captures the diverse and unique aspects of the university experience. The comedy is described as topical and well-polished, providing a mix of entertainment and relatability for its viewers.

"Ronny Chieng: International Student" follows Ronny's adventures as he navigates his studies, social life, and his desire to make his mother proud. The series began as one of six half-hour comedy pilots in ABC's 2016 anthology series "Comedy Showroom," and it was the only one voted by viewers to become a full series. The show's success led to its release in the US on Comedy Central's app in August 2018 and subsequent airing on BBC in the UK, CBC in Canada, and Comedy Central Asia.

The portrayal of Ronny as an international student studying in a foreign country resonates with many viewers who have embarked on similar journeys. The show captures the challenges, dreams, and endless curiosity that come with navigating a new culture and education system. It reflects on the idea that movies and TV shows can serve as guides, teaching us new languages and customs and offering a glimpse into unknown situations and worlds.

How movies can help international students with homesickness

Movies can be a great way to help international students deal with homesickness. They can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, especially if the movie is set in the student's home country or features characters who are going through similar experiences. Watching movies can also be a social activity that helps students connect with their peers and build a support system, which is crucial for coping with homesickness.

International students often face challenges such as navigating a new culture, language, and education system. Movies can help bridge the cultural gap by exposing students to new languages and dialects, as well as unfamiliar situations and customs. By watching movies set in their host country, international students can gain a better understanding of the local culture and people, making it easier for them to adapt to their new surroundings.

Additionally, movies can offer a much-needed escape from the academic workload and the stress of adjusting to a new environment. They can provide a few hours of entertainment and immersion in a different world, allowing students to take a break from their worries and relax. This can be especially beneficial for international students who may be facing increased pressure and challenges in their new academic setting.

Certain movies can also help international students cope with homesickness by exploring universal themes of love, loss, and identity. For example, the movie mentioned in the sources, in which a Chinese-American woman returns to China and experiences cultural clashes and family dynamics, can resonate with students who are navigating their own complex family ties and the challenges of straddling two worlds. Such movies can provide a sense of comfort and validation, reminding students that they are not alone in their struggles.

Finally, movies can be a great conversation starter and a way to bond with new friends. International students can use movies as a tool to connect with their peers, whether it's discussing their favourite films, watching movies together, or joining film clubs and societies. This can help create a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for overcoming homesickness and adjusting to life in a new country.

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