The topic “Describe A Movie Character You Relate To” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This topic allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing personal connections to fictional characters. Let’s explore how to effectively approach this topic and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about movies and characters. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy watching movies?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely! I’m quite the cinephile. I find that movies offer a unique blend of entertainment and artistic expression. They provide an escape from reality while often shedding light on important social issues. I particularly enjoy thought-provoking films that leave me pondering long after the credits roll.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a movie character you relate to
You should say:
- Who the character is
- What movie they are from
- What qualities or experiences you share with this character
- Why you feel connected to this character
And explain why you find this character relatable.
Thoughtful woman watching a movie
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d like to talk about a character I really relate to from a movie I watched recently. The character is Elle Woods from the film “Legally Blonde”. She’s the main character in the movie.
Elle and I share some qualities. We’re both optimistic and determined. In the movie, Elle decides to go to law school to win back her ex-boyfriend, but she ends up finding her true passion for law. I’ve also had experiences where I started something for one reason but discovered a new interest along the way.
I feel connected to Elle because she proves that you can be feminine and intelligent at the same time. People often underestimate her because of her appearance, but she shows them that she’s smart and capable. I’ve faced similar situations where people judged me based on how I look.
What makes Elle relatable to me is her journey of self-discovery. She starts the movie thinking she needs a man to be happy, but by the end, she realizes her own worth and pursues her dreams. I’ve gone through a similar process of learning to value myself and my abilities.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to delve into a character I find particularly relatable from the critically acclaimed film “The Pursuit of Happyness”. The character in question is Chris Gardner, masterfully portrayed by Will Smith.
Chris and I share several fundamental qualities and experiences that resonate deeply with me. Foremost among these is an unwavering determination in the face of adversity. In the film, Chris navigates through homelessness and single parenthood while pursuing a highly competitive internship. Similarly, I’ve faced my own set of challenges, albeit less extreme, where I’ve had to persevere against the odds.
I feel a profound connection to Chris due to his resilience and resourcefulness. There’s a scene where he spends the night in a subway bathroom with his son, yet still manages to show up to his internship the next day, impeccably groomed and ready to work. This epitomizes the kind of strength I strive to embody in my own life when facing obstacles.
What makes Chris genuinely relatable is his multifaceted nature. He’s not just a one-dimensional character focused solely on success. We see his vulnerabilities, his fears, and most importantly, his deep love for his son. This complexity mirrors the human experience, reminding us that we all have various aspects to our personalities and motivations.
Furthermore, Chris’s journey of self-actualization is particularly poignant. He transforms from a struggling salesman to a successful stockbroker, not just for personal gain, but to provide a better life for his child. This altruistic drive is something I deeply admire and try to emulate in my own pursuits.
In essence, Chris Gardner embodies the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds through perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering hope. It’s these qualities that make him not just relatable, but truly inspirational.
Chris Gardner character from The Pursuit of Happyness
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you think the character’s experiences compare to real-life situations?
- Do you think it’s important for movies to have relatable characters? Why or why not?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for Question 1:
The experiences of Chris Gardner in “The Pursuit of Happyness” are remarkably reflective of real-life situations, albeit in a somewhat condensed and dramatized form. The film adeptly captures the harsh realities of economic hardship, homelessness, and the challenges of single parenthood that many individuals face globally.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that while Chris’s story is based on true events, it represents an exceptional case rather than the norm. The film skillfully balances the depiction of struggle with the ultimate triumph, which may not always be the outcome in real life. Many people facing similar circumstances might not have access to the same opportunities or possess the unique combination of skills and determination that Chris had.
That being said, the core elements of Chris’s journey – the daily struggles, the emotional toll, and the unwavering hope – are undoubtedly authentic and relatable. These aspects resonate deeply with viewers because they touch on universal human experiences of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Moreover, the film sheds light on systemic issues such as the cycle of poverty and the challenges of social mobility, which are very much real and ongoing concerns in many societies. It prompts viewers to reflect on these issues and perhaps gain a more empathetic understanding of those who may be experiencing similar hardships.
In essence, while the specifics of Chris’s story may be unique, the underlying themes and emotions are profoundly universal, making it a powerful representation of real-life struggles and triumphs.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think movies influence people’s behavior?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I believe movies wield significant influence over people’s behavior, both consciously and subconsciously. Films have the power to shape societal norms, influence fashion trends, and even impact our worldviews. For instance, movies that portray heroic characters overcoming adversity can inspire viewers to persevere in their own lives. Conversely, films that glorify violence or questionable behavior might inadvertently normalize such actions, particularly among impressionable audiences.
Moreover, movies often serve as a cultural touchstone, providing shared experiences and references that can shape collective behavior. Think about how certain iconic movie lines or gestures become part of everyday communication. This demonstrates the pervasive impact of cinema on our social interactions.
However, it’s crucial to note that the degree of influence varies greatly among individuals. Factors such as critical thinking skills, personal experiences, and media literacy play a significant role in how much a person is influenced by what they see on screen. Therefore, while movies undoubtedly have the power to influence behavior, the extent of this influence is not uniform across all viewers.
Examiner: How have movies changed in recent years?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Movies have undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by technological advancements, changing audience preferences, and global events. One of the most notable shifts has been the rise of streaming platforms, which has revolutionized how we consume films. This has led to a proliferation of content and more diverse storytelling, as streaming services invest in original productions catering to niche audiences.
Technologically, we’ve seen remarkable progress in visual effects and cinematography. Films like “Avatar” have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in creating immersive, fantastical worlds. Additionally, there’s been a growing trend towards using practical effects alongside CGI, as seen in movies like “Mad Max: Fury Road”, to create more authentic and visually striking experiences.
Thematically, there’s been a noticeable shift towards more inclusive and diverse storytelling. Films like “Black Panther” and “Crazy Rich Asians” have demonstrated the commercial viability and cultural importance of representing diverse perspectives. We’re also seeing more nuanced portrayals of complex social issues, reflecting a maturing audience that craves thought-provoking content.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also catalyzed changes in the industry, accelerating the shift towards simultaneous theatrical and streaming releases. This hybrid model is likely to persist, potentially reshaping the traditional cinema experience.
Lastly, there’s been a resurgence of interest in practical filmmaking techniques and analog formats. Directors like Christopher Nolan and Quentin Tarantino champion the use of film over digital, arguing for its unique aesthetic qualities. This juxtaposition of cutting-edge technology with traditional methods reflects the industry’s ongoing evolution and its respect for cinematic heritage.
Diverse group watching a movie at home
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Cinephile (noun) /ˈsɪnəfaɪl/ – A person who is fond of motion pictures; a film/movie enthusiast.
Example: As a cinephile, I make it a point to watch at least one classic film every week.Epitomize (verb) /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ – To be a perfect example of; to embody.
Example: The character’s journey epitomizes the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
Example: The protagonist is a multifaceted character, showing both strength and vulnerability throughout the film.Poignant (adjective) /ˈpɔɪnjənt/ – Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret; touching.
Example: The movie’s ending was particularly poignant, leaving many audience members in tears.Perseverance (noun) /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ – Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Example: The main character’s perseverance in pursuing his dreams is truly inspiring.
Examiner’s Advice: To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, practice using these advanced vocabulary items and complex sentence structures in context. Focus on developing your ideas fully and providing specific examples to support your points. Remember to speak fluently and maintain good pronunciation and intonation throughout your responses.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, you might find it helpful to describe a book you plan to read again. This can help you practice discussing literary themes, which can be applied to movie discussions as well. Additionally, exploring topics like describing a famous painter or artist from your country can enhance your ability to talk about influential figures in various art forms, including cinema.
