[Nyororin]

There is a difference though when it comes to English/French. The writing system is something I imagine you didn`t have to learn anew - or at the very least, it`s a much easier writing system to learn than Japanese. If you are unsuccessful at reading the subtitles, it`s really not going to help you.
Especially as it`s pretty popular for there to be written something with a different literal meaning than what was said actually said. It`s a bit hard to explain, but those who have experience with Japanese television and Japanese subtitles will know what I mean.
And let`s not forget that the English subtitles are often so far off from what was actually said that it actually drives me crazy.

You`re welcome to "plow ahead", but I agree with MMM that this is really not a worthwhile idea at all. At the very least, start with something that is actually close to your level - children`s programming, programming designed for Japanese learners, etc. I can only see this leading to frustration and no significant learning.