The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about films and their impact on viewers. “Describe a film that had a big impact on you” is a common topic that candidates may encounter, especially in Part 2 of the speaking exam. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about films and your viewing habits. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy watching films?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about cinema. I try to watch a variety of films, from Hollywood blockbusters to independent productions, as I believe they offer unique perspectives on storytelling and culture.”
- How often do you go to the cinema?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d say I’m a regular cinemagoer. I make it a point to visit the theater at least twice a month. There’s something special about the immersive experience of watching a film on the big screen that I find truly captivating.”
- What kind of films do you prefer?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I have a penchant for thought-provoking dramas and science fiction films. I find that these genres often explore complex themes and challenge my perspective on various aspects of life and society.”
IELTS Speaking: Describing a film's impact at the cinema
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points to guide your response. Here’s a sample cue card related to the main topic:
Describe a film that had a big impact on you
You should say:
- What the film was about
- When and where you watched it
- Who you watched it with
- And explain why it had such a big impact on youSample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a film that really left a mark on me. It’s called ‘The Pursuit of Happyness,’ starring Will Smith. The movie is based on a true story and follows the life of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son while pursuing a better life.
I watched this film about five years ago in my living room with my family. We decided to have a movie night, and my dad suggested this one.
The film had a profound impact on me for several reasons. Firstly, it showed the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing numerous setbacks and hardships, Chris never gave up on his dreams. This really inspired me to persevere in my own life.
Secondly, the relationship between Chris and his son was truly touching. It demonstrated the power of a parent’s love and dedication. This aspect of the film resonated with me deeply, as I have a close relationship with my own parents.
Lastly, the movie highlighted the importance of hard work and determination in achieving one’s goals. It made me realize that success often requires sacrifice and unwavering commitment.
Overall, ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ left me feeling motivated and grateful for the opportunities I have in life. It’s a film that I often think about when I face challenges, and it continues to inspire me to this day.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to discuss a film that profoundly impacted me: ‘Schindler’s List’ by Steven Spielberg. This monumental work chronicles the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.
I first encountered this masterpiece during a film studies course at university, where we watched it in a screening room with my classmates. The experience was truly unforgettable.
The film’s impact on me was multifaceted and deeply moving. Primarily, it served as a stark reminder of the depths of human cruelty, but also the heights of human compassion. Schindler’s transformation from an opportunistic businessman to a selfless savior was both heartrending and inspiring.
What struck me most was the film’s unflinching portrayal of the Holocaust. Spielberg’s decision to shoot in black and white, with only a few splashes of color, created a haunting visual narrative that etched itself indelibly into my memory. The scene with the girl in the red coat, in particular, was a powerful symbol of innocence amidst unimaginable horror.
Furthermore, the film challenged me to contemplate the nature of moral courage. It posed the question: What would I do in such circumstances? This introspection led me to reflect deeply on my own values and the importance of standing up against injustice, even in the face of personal risk.
The film’s impact extended far beyond the viewing experience. It ignited in me a passion for studying history, particularly the Holocaust, and understanding the societal conditions that can lead to such atrocities. It also instilled a sense of responsibility to educate others about these events to prevent their recurrence.
In essence, ‘Schindler’s List’ wasn’t just a film for me; it was a transformative experience that altered my worldview and reinforced the power of cinema as a medium for conveying profound truths about the human condition.”
IELTS Speaking: Describing the impact of Schindler's List
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you think films can influence people’s behavior?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Films have an extraordinary capacity to shape people’s perspectives and behaviors. They can evoke empathy by allowing viewers to experience different lives and cultures, potentially leading to increased understanding and tolerance. Moreover, films that tackle social issues can raise awareness and inspire action. For instance, documentaries about environmental concerns have motivated many to adopt more sustainable lifestyles. Additionally, the characters in films often serve as role models, influencing viewers’ aspirations and moral compasses. However, it’s crucial to note that this influence can be both positive and negative, underlining the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills.”
- Do you think violent films can have a negative impact on society?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This is a complex and contentious issue. While some argue that violent films can desensitize viewers to real-world violence or even inspire copycat behavior, others contend that they serve as a cathartic outlet. Personally, I believe that the impact largely depends on the individual viewer and the context in which the violence is presented. Films that glorify violence without showing its consequences might indeed have a negative influence, especially on younger, more impressionable audiences. However, films that depict violence realistically, showing its true impact and consequences, can actually serve to deter violent behavior by illustrating its devastating effects. Ultimately, I think it’s crucial for filmmakers to handle violent content responsibly and for viewers to approach such films with a critical mindset.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How has the film industry changed in recent years?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The film industry has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime have revolutionized content distribution, challenging the traditional theatrical release model. This has led to a surge in high-quality, diverse content, including international productions that might not have found an audience in the past.
Moreover, advancements in CGI and special effects have expanded the boundaries of what’s possible on screen, allowing filmmakers to bring increasingly fantastical worlds to life. However, this has also led to concerns about over-reliance on visual spectacle at the expense of storytelling.
Another significant change is the democratization of filmmaking. With high-quality cameras now available on smartphones and affordable editing software, there’s been an influx of independent and low-budget productions. This has diversified the voices in cinema, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling techniques to the fore.
Lastly, there’s been a growing emphasis on representation and diversity both on and off screen. The industry is slowly but surely becoming more inclusive, telling stories from a wider range of cultural perspectives and experiences.”
- Do you think films have the power to change society?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely, I believe films have a significant potential to influence and even transform society. Films can act as powerful catalysts for social change by bringing important issues to the forefront of public consciousness. For instance, documentaries about environmental issues have played a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change and inspiring action.
Moreover, films can challenge societal norms and prejudices by presenting diverse perspectives and experiences. They can foster empathy and understanding, potentially leading to shifts in public opinion on various social issues. A great example is how films featuring LGBTQ+ characters have contributed to greater acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community in many societies.
However, it’s important to note that the impact of films on society isn’t always straightforward or immediate. Change often happens gradually, with films contributing to a broader cultural conversation. Additionally, the influence of a film can vary greatly depending on its reach, the receptiveness of its audience, and the broader social and political context in which it’s released.
In conclusion, while films alone may not be able to instantly transform society, they certainly have the power to spark discussions, challenge perspectives, and contribute to long-term social change.”
IELTS Speaking: Discussing film's impact on society
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Cinematic experience (noun) /ˌsɪnəˈmætɪk ɪkˈspɪəriəns/
Definition: The overall feeling or atmosphere created by watching a film, especially in a cinema.
Example: “The immersive cinematic experience of watching ‘Gravity’ in IMAX was breathtaking.”Thought-provoking (adjective) /θɔːt prəˈvəʊkɪŋ/
Definition: Stimulating careful consideration or attention.
Example: “The film raised several thought-provoking questions about the nature of reality.”To resonate with (phrasal verb) /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/
Definition: To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
Example: “The themes of friendship and loyalty in the movie really resonated with me.”Unflinching portrayal (noun phrase) /ʌnˈflɪntʃɪŋ pɔːˈtreɪəl/
Definition: A representation that is direct and honest, without attempting to avoid unpleasant aspects.
Example: “The director’s unflinching portrayal of war left a lasting impression on the audience.”To evoke empathy (verb phrase) /ɪˈvəʊk ˈempəθi/
Definition: To bring about or elicit a feeling of understanding and sharing another person’s experiences and emotions.
Example: “The film’s realistic characters managed to evoke empathy even for the antagonist.”
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
- Practice describing films in detail, focusing on plot, characters, themes, and your personal reaction.
- Use a variety of descriptive language and advanced vocabulary to articulate your thoughts and feelings about the film.
- Structure your response clearly, addressing all parts of the question.
- Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points.
- Practice speaking for 2 minutes without hesitation on various film-related topics.
- Develop your critical thinking skills by analyzing films from different perspectives.
- Stay updated on current trends in the film industry to discuss recent changes and developments.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
describe a movie or performance you recently watched to further enhance your speaking skills on film-related topics. Additionally, you might find it helpful to describe a movie character you relate to as this can provide another interesting angle for discussing films in your IELTS Speaking test.