Developmental and educational potential of using an authentic feature film in the process of teaching foreign language

 The subject of this research is the use of an authentic feature films in the process of teaching English language. Based on the analysis of theoretical material, the article covers the questions related to the use of films during the classes in higher educational institutions, since despite the old-established practice of using audiovisual means, there is yet no universal methodology for working with films. The author offers to organize classes based on watching the “American Beauty”, which would enrich the vocabulary, analyze various situation of verbal and nonverbal communication, give representation on the national peculiarities of language behavior. The authentic feature films have been largely used in the process of teaching foreign language. However, more than ever before the use of audio and video materials has become a strict necessity for the effective teaching of students of various specialties. The command of a foreign language is not only the ability to conduct verbal communication, but establish the cross-cultural dialogue that ensures effective communication. Therefore, competent linguistic, culturological, and country-specific training is required. The effectiveness of using feature film in the learning process is determined first and foremost by the peculiarities of cinematographic art, which can strongly affect the audience. This is achieved by combining video sequence and sound (including music). Therefore, the audience receives a visual representation on the place of the ongoing events, appearance of the characters, analyze the specificities of nonverbal means of communication, and determine their impact upon the content of communication and its results. The author’s experience of conducting film analysis with the students of non-philological specialties indicates students’ interest in such activities, both at the lectures or doing homework, and thus high academic performance.