Master IELTS Speaking: Describe a Film That Impressed You

The topic “Describe a film that impressed you” is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows candidates to showcase their ability to discuss personal experiences, emotions, and cultural perspectives. Let’s explore how to effectively approach this topic and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about films and your viewing habits. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you enjoy watching films?
2. How often do you go to the cinema?
3. What types of films do you prefer?

Let’s focus on the first question:

Examiner: Do you enjoy watching films?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy watching films. I find them entertaining and a good way to relax after a long day. I usually watch movies on weekends when I have more free time.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I’m quite passionate about cinema and find it to be an incredibly powerful medium for storytelling. Films have the unique ability to transport us to different worlds, evoke strong emotions, and provide insights into various cultures and perspectives. I try to watch a diverse range of films, from thought-provoking documentaries to visually stunning blockbusters, as I believe each genre has something valuable to offer.

Describe a film character who impressed you can be another interesting topic that allows you to delve deeper into character analysis and personal impact.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a film that impressed you

You should say:
- What the film was
- When and where you watched it
- What it was about
- And explain why it impressed you

Band 6-7 Answer:
The film that impressed me was “The Shawshank Redemption.” I watched it at home about two years ago on a streaming platform. The movie is about a banker named Andy who is wrongly convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank prison. It shows his life in prison and his friendship with another inmate, Red. The film impressed me because of its powerful story about hope and friendship. The acting was very good, and the ending was surprising and satisfying. I liked how it showed that people can keep their spirit even in difficult situations.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The film that left an indelible impression on me was Christopher Nolan’s “Inception.” I had the privilege of watching it in an IMAX theater shortly after its release in 2010, which significantly enhanced the viewing experience.

At its core, “Inception” is a mind-bending narrative that explores the concept of dream infiltration. The protagonist, Cobb, played masterfully by Leonardo DiCaprio, is a skilled thief with the rare ability to “extract” information from people’s minds while they’re dreaming. He’s offered a chance to regain his old life as payment for a task considered to be impossible: “inception”, the implantation of another person’s idea into a target’s subconscious.

This film impressed me on multiple levels. Firstly, the intricate plot was a testament to Nolan’s brilliant storytelling. The way he seamlessly wove complex ideas about consciousness, reality, and the power of ideas into a thrilling heist movie was nothing short of extraordinary.

Secondly, the visual effects were groundbreaking. The scenes of Paris folding onto itself and the zero-gravity hotel fight sequence were not just visually stunning but also served the narrative perfectly. They weren’t mere spectacle but integral to the story’s exploration of dream physics.

Furthermore, the film’s emotional depth caught me by surprise. Beneath the layers of spectacle and intrigue, it was ultimately a story about love, loss, and the power of catharsis. DiCaprio’s portrayal of a man haunted by his past added a poignant human element to the high-concept plot.

Lastly, the film’s ambiguous ending left me pondering long after I left the theater. It sparked countless discussions and theories, demonstrating the film’s power to engage viewers intellectually even after the credits rolled.

In essence, “Inception” impressed me with its perfect blend of thought-provoking concepts, emotional resonance, and visual innovation. It exemplified how cinema can be both intellectually stimulating and emotionally moving, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in filmmaking.

Inception movie scene with spinning top

Follow-up questions:

1. How did the film’s soundtrack contribute to its impact?
2. Did the film change your perspective on dreams or reality in any way?

Band 8-9 Answer for Question 1:
The soundtrack, composed by the legendary Hans Zimmer, was integral to the film’s impact. It perfectly complemented the narrative, enhancing the tension and emotional depth of key scenes. The use of Edith Piaf’s “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” as a plot device was particularly ingenious, seamlessly blending the music into the story’s fabric. The iconic “braam” sound became synonymous with the film, creating a sense of anticipation and underlining the gravity of crucial moments. Overall, Zimmer’s score elevated the viewing experience, making it more immersive and emotionally resonant.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to films and their impact. Here’s an example:

Examiner: How do you think films influence society?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think films can have a big influence on society. They can change people’s opinions about important issues. For example, documentaries about the environment can make people more aware of climate change. Films can also affect fashion and popular culture. Sometimes, films with strong messages can even lead to social or political changes.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Films have a profound and multifaceted influence on society. They serve as a powerful medium for shaping public opinion, raising awareness about critical issues, and challenging societal norms.

Firstly, films can be catalysts for social change. Documentaries like “An Inconvenient Truth” have played a significant role in raising awareness about climate change, spurring both individual action and policy changes. Similarly, films tackling social issues, such as “Philadelphia” addressing AIDS stigma, can help break down prejudices and foster empathy.

Moreover, films reflect and shape cultural values. They can reinforce existing norms or challenge them, potentially leading to shifts in societal attitudes. For instance, the increasing representation of diverse characters in mainstream films has contributed to greater acceptance and understanding of different cultures and lifestyles.

Films also have a substantial impact on popular culture, influencing fashion trends, language, and even behavior. Iconic characters and memorable quotes often become ingrained in the cultural lexicon, shaping how people express themselves.

Furthermore, the film industry itself is a significant economic force, creating jobs and driving tourism to filming locations. The global reach of cinema also makes it a tool for soft power, with countries using their film industries to project cultural influence internationally.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this influence can be double-edged. While films can promote positive social change, they can also perpetuate stereotypes or glorify harmful behaviors if not handled responsibly.

In conclusion, the influence of film on society is extensive and nuanced, affecting everything from individual perspectives to global cultural trends. As such, filmmakers bear a significant responsibility in shaping the narratives that can profoundly impact our collective consciousness.

Describe an invention that changed the world for you could be an interesting related topic, as cinema itself was a groundbreaking invention that has significantly impacted society.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Indelible impression (adj + n): A mark or effect that cannot be removed or forgotten
   Example: The film left an indelible impression on my mind.

2. Mind-bending (adj): Difficult to understand or imagine; very confusing
   Example: The movie’s mind-bending plot kept me engaged throughout.

3. Seamlessly (adv): Smoothly and continuously, with no apparent gaps or spaces
   Example: The director seamlessly wove multiple storylines into a coherent narrative.

4. Groundbreaking (adj): Innovative; pioneering
   Example: The film’s groundbreaking visual effects set a new standard for the industry.

5. Profound (adj): Very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight
   Example: The movie had a profound impact on how I view reality.

6. Catalyst (n): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change
   Example: This film acted as a catalyst for discussions about mental health in our society.

Describe a person who has been a role model to you is another topic where you can use some of these vocabulary items to express admiration and impact.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a film:

1. Structure your answer well, especially in Part 2. Use the cue card points as a guide, but elaborate on each point.

2. Use a wide range of vocabulary. Don’t just say a film is “good” or “interesting”. Use more sophisticated adjectives and phrases to express your thoughts.

3. Showcase your grammar skills by using a variety of structures, including complex sentences.

4. Be specific in your descriptions. Instead of general statements, provide concrete examples and details.

5. Practice fluency by speaking at length about films you’ve watched. Try to speak for the full 2 minutes in Part 2 without long pauses.

6. In Part 3, demonstrate critical thinking skills by considering different perspectives on the topic.

7. Use idiomatic expressions naturally where appropriate, but don’t overuse them.

8. Maintain eye contact with the examiner and use natural hand gestures to appear confident and engaged.

Remember, the key to success is practice. Watch a variety of films and try describing them using sophisticated language and structures. This will help you build the confidence and skills needed to excel in your IELTS Speaking test.

IELTS Speaking Test Preparation

Describe an online service that you use frequently could be a great topic to practice, especially if you use streaming services to watch films.