The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about films and characters that have left a lasting impression on candidates. “Describe A Film Character Who Inspired You” is a topic that has appeared in recent exams and is likely to resurface in future tests. This article will guide you through effectively answering this question, providing sample responses for different band scores, and offering valuable tips to enhance your performance.

Describe a film that had a big impact on you is a related topic that may also come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both will give you an advantage in the exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about films and inspiration. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy watching films?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I’m quite the film enthusiast. I find that movies offer a unique blend of entertainment and enlightenment. They’re not just a pastime for me; they’re a window into different cultures, perspectives, and human experiences. I particularly enjoy thought-provoking dramas and documentaries that challenge my worldview and inspire me to think critically about various issues.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a film character who inspired you
You should say:

• Who the character is
• What film they appear in
• What qualities they possess
• Why you find them inspiring

And explain how this character has influenced you.

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

The film character I’d like to talk about is Forrest Gump from the movie of the same name. He’s the main character in this famous American film from 1994. Forrest is a simple man with a low IQ, but he has a big heart and always tries to do the right thing.

What I find inspiring about Forrest is his positive attitude and determination. Despite facing many challenges in life, he never gives up and always looks on the bright side. He’s kind to everyone he meets and doesn’t judge others based on their appearance or background.

Forrest has influenced me to be more optimistic in my own life. When I face difficulties, I try to think about how Forrest would approach the situation. His famous quote, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get,” reminds me to be open to new experiences and not to worry too much about the future.

Overall, Forrest Gump has taught me the importance of kindness, perseverance, and maintaining a positive outlook on life. These are qualities I strive to embody in my own actions and interactions with others.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

The film character who has profoundly inspired me is Atticus Finch from the critically acclaimed movie “To Kill a Mockingbird,” based on Harper Lee’s novel of the same name. Portrayed masterfully by Gregory Peck, Atticus is a small-town lawyer in the Depression-era American South who embodies integrity, moral courage, and unwavering principles.

What sets Atticus apart and makes him truly inspiring are his exceptional qualities of wisdom, compassion, and steadfast commitment to justice. In a society rife with racial prejudice, he stands as a beacon of equality, defending a black man falsely accused of a crime despite facing social ostracism and personal threats. His unwavering belief in the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of their race or social status, is both powerful and deeply moving.

Atticus’s influence on me has been profound and multifaceted. His character has instilled in me a deep-seated respect for the law and its potential to protect the vulnerable. Moreover, his approach to parenting – treating his children with respect and fostering their critical thinking skills – has shaped my views on education and child-rearing.

Perhaps most significantly, Atticus has inspired me to cultivate moral courage in my own life. His famous quote, “The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience,” serves as a constant reminder to stand up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular or challenging. This has motivated me to be more vocal about social injustices and to take action in my community, volunteering for legal aid clinics and participating in advocacy groups.

In essence, Atticus Finch has not only inspired me but has also provided a moral compass that guides my decisions and actions in both personal and professional spheres. His character serves as a timeless exemplar of how integrity, empathy, and moral fortitude can effect positive change in society.

Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird

Follow-up Questions:

Examiner: How do you think fictional characters can influence real-life behavior?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Fictional characters can wield a profound influence on real-life behavior through various psychological mechanisms. Firstly, they often serve as role models, embodying virtues or skills that viewers aspire to emulate. This process, known as “identification,” can motivate individuals to adopt similar traits or behaviors in their own lives.

Moreover, well-crafted characters can evoke empathy, allowing audiences to experience different perspectives and life situations vicariously. This broadened emotional experience can foster greater understanding and tolerance in real-world interactions.

Additionally, fictional characters can challenge existing beliefs and prejudices, prompting viewers to question their assumptions and potentially alter their attitudes. This is particularly powerful when characters undergo transformative journeys that resonate with audience members.

Lastly, memorable characters often become part of our cultural lexicon, with their actions or catchphrases serving as shorthand for certain values or behaviors. This integration into everyday discourse can subtly shape societal norms and expectations over time.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Do you think films have the power to change society?

Candidate (Band 6-7 response): Yes, I believe films can change society. They can show us different ways of life and help us understand other people’s experiences. For example, movies about social issues can make people more aware of problems in society. Sometimes, a popular film can start conversations about important topics and even lead to changes in laws or people’s attitudes.

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Films undoubtedly possess a significant potential to catalyze societal change through various mechanisms. Firstly, they serve as a powerful medium for raising awareness about pressing social issues, often bringing marginalized voices and overlooked problems to the forefront of public consciousness. This increased visibility can spark crucial dialogues and mobilize public opinion.

Moreover, films have the unique ability to evoke empathy and emotional resonance on a mass scale. By presenting complex issues through relatable characters and compelling narratives, they can challenge deeply ingrained prejudices and foster greater understanding across diverse social groups.

Additionally, films can act as cultural touchstones, shaping collective values and aspirations. Iconic characters and storylines often become embedded in the social fabric, influencing fashion, language, and even moral standards.

Furthermore, the film industry itself can drive change through representation and inclusivity both on and off-screen. Increased diversity in storytelling and production can lead to more nuanced portrayals of underrepresented communities, gradually reshaping societal norms and expectations.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that while films can be powerful catalysts, sustainable societal change typically requires concurrent efforts in policy-making, education, and grassroots activism. Nonetheless, the role of cinema in shaping public discourse and inspiring action should not be underestimated.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your responses and impress the examiner, consider incorporating these sophisticated terms and expressions:

1. Embody /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (verb): to represent an idea or quality exactly
   Example: The character embodies the values of honesty and integrity.

2. Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
   Example: The film caused a paradigm shift in how society viewed mental health issues.

3. Nuanced /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ (adjective): characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
   Example: The actor gave a nuanced performance, capturing the character’s complex emotions.

4. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (phrase): a deep and significant effect
   Example: The film had a profound impact on my understanding of social justice.

5. Catalyze /ˈkætəlaɪz/ (verb): to cause or accelerate change or action
   Example: Great films can catalyze important conversations about societal issues.

Describe a person you consider a role model is another topic that allows you to showcase your ability to discuss influential figures, much like describing an inspiring film character.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an inspiring film character:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of characters from different genres and eras to discuss, showcasing your broad knowledge of cinema.

2. Focus on specific traits: Clearly articulate the qualities that make the character inspiring, providing concrete examples from the film.

3. Relate to personal impact: Explain how the character has influenced your own life or perspective, demonstrating critical thinking and self-reflection.

4. Use sophisticated language: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally throughout your response.

5. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation, but don’t sacrifice content for speed.

6. Engage with the topic: Show genuine interest and enthusiasm when discussing the character and film.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this topic in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to convey your ideas clearly and confidently while demonstrating a range of language skills.

Describe a famous painter or artist from your country is another interesting topic that allows you to showcase your cultural knowledge and language skills in a similar way to discussing inspiring film characters.