The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about films and characters, making it essential for test-takers to be prepared to discuss this topic. In recent years, examiners have frequently asked candidates to describe movie characters, particularly those they would like to be friends with. This trend is likely to continue, given the universal appeal of cinema and its characters.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, you may encounter questions related to movies and characters. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you enjoy watching movies?
2. What kind of movies do you prefer?
3. Who is your favorite movie character?

Sample answer for question 3 (Band 7-8):

“My favorite movie character is Tony Stark from the Iron Man and Avengers films. I find him incredibly charismatic and witty, which makes him thoroughly entertaining to watch. His character development throughout the series is also quite compelling, as he transforms from a self-centered billionaire to a selfless hero. Moreover, his genius-level intellect and innovative creations are truly awe-inspiring.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Film Character You Would Like To Be Friends With
You should say:

• Who the character is
• What film they appear in
• What qualities they possess
• And explain why you would like to be friends with them

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card: Film Character Friend

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a film character I would love to be friends with – Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series. Hermione is one of the main characters in this globally acclaimed fantasy franchise, appearing in all eight films based on J.K. Rowling’s beloved books.

Hermione possesses numerous admirable qualities that would make her an exceptional friend. First and foremost, she’s incredibly intelligent and has an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Her academic prowess is matched by her unwavering loyalty to her friends, as she consistently stands by Harry and Ron through thick and thin. Moreover, Hermione is remarkably brave, never hesitating to face dangers head-on when fighting for what’s right.

What I find most appealing about potentially being friends with Hermione is her combination of intellect and empathy. She’s not just book-smart; she has a deep understanding of complex issues like social justice, as evidenced by her campaign for the rights of house-elves. Her problem-solving skills would be invaluable in any friendship, and I believe we could have engaging discussions on a wide range of topics.

Furthermore, Hermione’s determination and work ethic are truly inspiring. Her ability to persevere in the face of adversity, whether it’s academic challenges or battling dark wizards, is something I greatly admire. I think having a friend like Hermione would motivate me to strive for excellence in my own pursuits.

In conclusion, Hermione Granger’s blend of intelligence, loyalty, bravery, and compassion makes her an ideal friend. I believe our friendship would be mutually enriching, filled with intellectual stimulation, exciting adventures, and unwavering support.”

Hermione Granger from Harry Potter series

Follow-up questions:

1. How do you think your personality would complement Hermione’s?
2. What activities would you enjoy doing together?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“I believe my personality would complement Hermione’s quite well. While she’s known for her academic brilliance and logical thinking, I tend to be more creative and intuitive in my approach to problem-solving. This contrast could lead to a dynamic friendship where we balance each other out. My laid-back nature might help her relax and not take things too seriously all the time, while her drive and ambition could inspire me to be more focused and goal-oriented. Together, we could tackle challenges from multiple angles, combining her analytical skills with my out-of-the-box thinking.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk about fictional characters in general. Do you think people can learn valuable lessons from movie characters?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Absolutely, I believe movie characters can be incredibly influential in teaching valuable life lessons. They often serve as allegories or representations of various human experiences and challenges, allowing viewers to gain insights into complex moral and ethical dilemmas.

For instance, characters who overcome adversity can inspire resilience and perseverance in audiences. Take Frodo Baggins from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ – his journey demonstrates the power of determination and the importance of friendship in the face of overwhelming odds. This can resonate deeply with viewers, encouraging them to persevere through their own struggles.

Moreover, well-developed characters often grapple with moral ambiguity, which can prompt viewers to reflect on their own values and decision-making processes. The character arc of Walter White in ‘Breaking Bad’, for example, serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and the consequences of moral compromise.

Additionally, diverse characters can foster empathy and understanding for different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Films like ‘Moonlight’ or ‘Parasite’ offer perspectives that might be unfamiliar to some viewers, broadening their worldview and encouraging greater cultural sensitivity.

However, it’s crucial to approach these lessons with critical thinking. Not all character portrayals are positive or accurate, and it’s important for viewers to discern between realistic representations and potentially harmful stereotypes.

In conclusion, while movie characters can indeed impart valuable lessons, it’s essential to engage with them thoughtfully and contextualize their experiences within the broader scope of real-world complexities.”

Movie Characters Teaching Life Lessons

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Charismatic (adjective) /ˌkærɪzˈmætɪk/ – exercising a compelling charm which inspires devotion in others
   Example: “The charismatic lead actor captivated the audience with his performance.”

2. Character development (noun phrase) /ˈkærəktər dɪˈveləpmənt/ – the process of creating a believable character in fiction by giving the character depth and personality
   Example: “The character development in this series is exceptional, showing how the protagonist evolves over time.”

3. Compelling (adjective) /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ – evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way
   Example: “The film’s compelling storyline kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.”

4. Globally acclaimed (adjective phrase) /ˈɡləʊbəli əˈkleɪmd/ – praised and admired worldwide
   Example: “The globally acclaimed director has won numerous international awards for her innovative filmmaking.”

5. Insatiable thirst for knowledge (idiom) /ɪnˈseɪʃəbl θɜːst fɔː ˈnɒlɪdʒ/ – an extreme desire to learn more
   Example: “Her insatiable thirst for knowledge led her to pursue multiple degrees in various fields.”

6. Unwavering loyalty (noun phrase) /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ ˈlɔɪəlti/ – steadfast allegiance that does not falter
   Example: “Despite facing numerous challenges, his unwavering loyalty to the cause never diminished.”

7. Mutually enriching (adjective phrase) /ˈmjuːtʃuəli ɪnˈrɪtʃɪŋ/ – beneficial for all parties involved
   Example: “Their collaboration was mutually enriching, as both artists learned new techniques from each other.”

8. Persevere (verb) /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪə(r)/ – to continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty
   Example: “Despite numerous setbacks, she persevered and eventually achieved her goals.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing film characters:

1. Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a wide range of descriptive adjectives and idiomatic expressions related to personality traits and character analysis.

2. Practice fluency: Regularly discuss movies and characters with others to improve your ability to speak at length on this topic.

3. Develop critical thinking: Analyze characters’ motivations and actions to provide insightful responses during the test.

4. Use specific examples: Support your opinions with concrete examples from films to demonstrate your understanding and engagement with the topic.

5. Work on pronunciation: Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of character names and film titles to showcase your familiarity with the subject.

By following these tips and regularly practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss film characters and describe a movie you want to watch again in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to express your ideas clearly, use a variety of vocabulary, and maintain a natural, conversational tone throughout the test.