7.2
Isabella Endrinal

Most computer screen films take the horror film route as a cautionary tale about technology and how we use it. However, when the world was on lockdown, one screenlife film takes a look at its positive side. Simple, straightforward, and comforting, Language Lessons celebrates technology as a means for connection. Through surprise Spanish lessons purchased by his husband, Adam (Mark Duplass) forms a friendship with his instructor Cariño (Natalie Morales). At times, watching the film feels like listening into someone else’s Zoom call, however, their back-and-forth feels engaging because of Morales and Duplass’ chemistry. And when loss hits, on both sides, it’s only natural that their relationship deepens as they console each other. Expressive without being melodramatic and intimate without being too pushy, Language Lessons is a rare optimistic take towards the way we connect to each other through technology.

1. You can watch
Language Lessons (2021)
on
MAX

Price:
 $9.99 per month
Device availability:
 Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku, Samsung TV, Xbox

Formerly HBO Max, Max is a subscription-based on-demand platform that is only available in the US. New subscribers can choose from three monthly tiers ranging from $10 (with ads) to $15 (no ads) to $20 (no ads, plus more concurrent streams, downloads, and 4K streaming). An annual subscription option is also available.

When you subscribe, you’ll get HBO’s world-class exclusives, such as The Wire and Game of Thrones but Max also functions as a bundle: you’ll get content from Discovery, DC, Criterion Collection, Looney Tunes, Studio Ghibli, Turner Classic Movies, and Crunchyroll.

Most mobile devices that can stream video support Max, although there is yet no app for Amazon Fire TV and Roku devices.

2. You can watch
Language Lessons (2021)
on
VUDU

Device availability:
 Amazon Fire TV, Android, Chromecast, iOS, LG Smart TV, Playsation, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, TiVo, Vizio, Xbox, Xfinity Flex
Vudu is an on-demand streaming service that allows users to rent or purchase more than 200,000 new releases. Founded in 2007, it's one of the first companies to offer digital films in HD. Vudu's main strength is its ease of access and jam-packed catalog of movies and TV shows, but it also boasts free content, which they run on ads. In 2020, media and ticketing firm Fandango acquired Vudu and merged both companies' streamers into one. They decided to keep the Vudu name because of its vast and loyal customer base.

3. You can watch
Language Lessons (2021)
on
KANOPY

4. You can rent
Language Lessons (2021)
on
AMAZON
for $1.99

5. You can rent
Language Lessons (2021)
on
ITUNES
for $3.99

6. You can rent
Language Lessons (2021)
on
MICROSOFT
for $3.99

7. You can rent
Language Lessons (2021)
on
PLAY
for $1.99

8. You can watch
Language Lessons (2021)
on
REDBOX

9. You can watch
Language Lessons (2021)
on
YOUTUBE