Learning a language is one of life’s great joys and challenges.

Scientists are increasingly discovering how speaking more than one language keeps the brain young, staves off depression and forges powerful cross-cultural bonds. Britain may lag behind much of the world when it comes to speaking foreign languages, but our desire to learn, however belated, is strong. Alongside the traditional evening classes there’s a boom in innovative apps and opportunities to learn online. These intimate celebratory films explore the joys – and far-reaching benefits – of learning a language.