Do you "voir un film" or do you "regarder un film"?

Question

Accepted Answer

Just to add to this excellent discussion you could only say:
"Je suis en train de regarder un film." (not voir here).
It's the same distinction as-
 To hear (entendre) and to listen (écouter) .
The former is a passive action, the latter requires input from the subject .
Hope this helps!

Answer

For once, this is exactly as in English (you don't get lucky very often ;)):

Je vais voir un film -- I am going to see a movie.
Je vais regarder un film -- I am going to watch a movie.

-- Chris (not a native speaker).

Answer

Thanks Chris - so either are OK to use. - I suppose in English you normally see a movie in a cinema, but watch a movie on TV - but it's a fine distinction.
David

Answer

I am not aware that this distinction carries over to French. But that certainly is a fine point which needs the input of a native speaker.

-- Chris.

Answer

According to Duolingo, "regarder" is used with more intent while "voir" is used more passively
Elle va voir la ville - She's going to see the city
Le chat regarde le poisson - The cat is (actively) watching the fish