As an ESL instructor, or an ESL learner, it can be challenging to find the perfect mix of meaningful content, real-life vocabulary, and emotional depth in a lesson. That’s why I designed a unique ESL movie guide for the 2014 film St. Vincent—a heartfelt and sometimes hilarious story of redemption, compassion, and unlikely friendships.

This film isn’t just entertainment. It opens the door to deep discussions about personal flaws, virtues, and what it means to be a “modern-day saint.” It’s rated PG-13, making it appropriate for upper-intermediate ESL learners, high schoolers, or adult English learners who are ready to engage critically and emotionally with English-language media.

<— Purchase the movie on Amazon

Why St. Vincent Works in the ESL Classroom

✔️ Real-World Language Use:
The characters speak in natural, everyday English—sometimes formal, sometimes informal. This allows learners to hear conversational phrases, regional expressions, and even slang in context.

✔️ Themes That Matter:
The film touches on social issues like discrimination, poverty, military veterans, and personal transformation. Students get the chance to reflect on deeper issues in English—improving not just their vocabulary but their critical thinking skills, too.

✔️ Flexible Lesson Design:
The accompanying movie guide is designed for 2–3 class periods, and includes:

  • A vocabulary preview
  • Warm-up discussion prompts
  • Comprehension questions for every 20-minute segment of the movie
  • Post-viewing activities including writing and creative reflection
  • A complete answer key for teachers

Whether you’re in a traditional classroom, teaching online, learning online, or working with small groups, this guide offers structure and freedom to adapt.

Who Is This Resource For?

  • High school ESL teachers
  • Adult ESL educators
  • Homeschooling parents of older teens
  • ESL learners
  • Teachers looking for a deeper, discussion-driven classroom activity

Try It!

If you’re ready for an ESL powerful learning experience built around a truly touching story, check out the St. Vincent Movie Guide now available on Teachers Pay Teachers.

👉 Click here to view and purchase the digital resource.

<— When I teach ESL, I go through tons of these!