Master the Art of Describing a Funny Movie in IELTS Speaking

Describing a movie that made you laugh is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to express emotions, recount experiences, and use descriptive language effectively. To help you excel in this task, let’s explore a comprehensive guide on how to approach this topic and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about movies and comedy. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

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

Let’s focus on the third question:

Examiner: How often do you go to the cinema?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
I try to go to the cinema about once a month. It’s a nice way to relax and enjoy some entertainment with friends. Sometimes we catch the latest blockbusters, while other times we might watch a comedy or drama.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
I’d say I frequent the cinema roughly once a fortnight. It’s become somewhat of a ritual for my friends and I to catch the latest releases, particularly during the summer blockbuster season. We’re quite eclectic in our tastes, ranging from thought-provoking arthouse films to laugh-out-loud comedies. There’s just something magical about the immersive experience of watching a film on the big screen that keeps drawing us back.

Describe a memorable day you spent with friends can be another interesting topic to explore in your IELTS Speaking practice, as it allows you to showcase your ability to narrate personal experiences and use descriptive language effectively.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a movie that made you laugh

You should say:
- What the movie was
- When and where you watched it
- What it was about
- And explain why it made you laugh

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

The movie that made me laugh was “The Hangover.” I watched it a few years ago at home with some friends. It’s about a group of guys who go to Las Vegas for a bachelor party, but things get out of control and they can’t remember what happened the night before. They have to figure out where the groom is before the wedding.

I found it funny because of the crazy situations the characters got into. The actors had great comedic timing, especially Zach Galifianakis, who played a really weird and funny character. There were a lot of unexpected twists and jokes that kept me laughing throughout the movie.

The movie made me laugh because it was so over-the-top and ridiculous. The characters’ reactions to their bizarre situations were hilarious. I remember laughing a lot at the scene with Mike Tyson and his tiger. Overall, it was just a really entertaining and funny movie that I enjoyed watching with my friends.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

The film that stands out in my mind as particularly hilarious is “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” directed by the inimitable Wes Anderson. I had the pleasure of watching this cinematic gem at an independent theater in my city about five years ago, shortly after its release.

Set in the 1930s, the movie revolves around the adventures of Gustave H, a legendary concierge at the famous European hotel, and Zero Moustafa, the lobby boy who becomes his most trusted friend. The story is a delightful concoction of murder mystery, love story, and comedy, all wrapped up in Anderson’s signature whimsical style.

What made this film so uproariously funny was its perfect blend of dry humor, visual gags, and impeccable timing. The deadpan delivery of absurd lines by the stellar cast, particularly Ralph Fiennes as Gustave, had me in stitches throughout. The film’s quirky characters, each with their own eccentric traits, contributed to a tapestry of humor that ranged from subtle wit to outright slapstick.

One scene that particularly tickled my funny bone involved an elaborate prison break, complete with intricately designed pastries hiding digging tools. The juxtaposition of the serious prison setting with the absurdly ornate desserts was simply hilarious.

Moreover, the film’s meticulous attention to detail in its symmetrical compositions and pastel color palette created a visual feast that enhanced the comedic elements. The rapid-fire dialogue, often delivered while characters were engaged in farcical chase scenes or precarious situations, added to the overall comedic rhythm of the film.

In essence, “The Grand Budapest Hotel” made me laugh because it masterfully combined intelligent humor with visual comedy, all while maintaining a charming storyline and unforgettable characters. It’s a film that not only entertained me in the moment but has continued to bring a smile to my face every time I recall its delightful absurdity.

IELTS Speaking: Describing a Funny Movie

Follow-up questions:

1. Do you think comedy movies are popular in your country?
2. What types of humor do people in your culture appreciate most?

Let’s focus on the second question:

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
In my culture, people generally appreciate situational humor and wordplay. We enjoy jokes that play on the multiple meanings of words or phrases. Sarcasm is also quite popular, especially among younger people. Family-oriented humor that pokes fun at everyday situations is well-received too.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
In my culture, humor is quite diverse, but there are certainly some prevailing preferences. We have a particular affinity for satirical humor that cleverly critiques social and political issues. This type of comedy often manifests in the form of witty sketches or stand-up routines that offer insightful commentary on current events.

Additionally, there’s a strong appreciation for self-deprecating humor, where individuals, often comedians, poke fun at themselves. This style of comedy resonates well as it’s seen as a sign of humility and relatability.

We also have a rich tradition of wordplay and puns, which stems from the intricacies of our language. These linguistic jokes are often layered with cultural references, making them particularly enjoyable for those well-versed in our heritage.

Lastly, there’s a growing trend towards absurdist humor, especially among the younger generation. This type of comedy, characterized by its surreal and often nonsensical nature, has gained popularity through social media platforms and meme culture.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Do you think comedy movies have changed over the years?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I think comedy movies have changed quite a bit over the years. In the past, comedies often relied on slapstick humor or simple jokes. Nowadays, we see more complex plots and different types of humor. There’s also more use of special effects and CGI in modern comedies. I’ve noticed that many recent comedies tend to be more controversial or push boundaries compared to older ones.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely, the evolution of comedy in cinema has been quite remarkable. There’s been a discernible shift in both content and style over the decades. In the early days of cinema, comedy often relied heavily on physical humor and slapstick routines, exemplified by the works of Charlie Chaplin or Buster Keaton. As cinema progressed, we saw the rise of witty dialogues and situational comedy in the screwball comedies of the 1930s and 40s.

In recent years, there’s been a noticeable trend towards more nuanced and socially conscious humor. Modern comedies often tackle complex issues like race, gender, and politics, using humor as a vehicle for social commentary. We’re also seeing an increased diversity in comedic voices, with filmmakers from various backgrounds bringing their unique perspectives to the genre.

Furthermore, the advent of digital technology has dramatically influenced comedy filmmaking. The rise of improvisation in comedies, made possible by digital cameras that can record for extended periods, has led to a more naturalistic and spontaneous style of humor. Additionally, the integration of CGI has allowed for more fantastical and outrageous comedic scenarios that weren’t possible in earlier eras.

Lastly, the influence of internet culture and social media has given birth to new forms of comedy, characterized by rapid-fire jokes, meme references, and a meta-awareness that often breaks the fourth wall. This has resulted in a more self-referential and intertextual approach to comedy in cinema.

In essence, while the fundamental goal of making people laugh remains unchanged, the methods, themes, and styles of comedy in movies have undergone a significant transformation, reflecting broader cultural and technological shifts in society.

Evolution of Comedy Movies Illustration

Describe a place where you go to spend time with family is another interesting topic that can help you practice describing personal experiences and emotions in your IELTS Speaking test.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your responses and aim for a higher band score, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:

1. Inimitable (adjective) /ɪˈnɪmɪtəbl/: So good or unusual as to be impossible to copy.
   Example: The film showcased the director’s inimitable style of visual storytelling.

2. Cinematic gem (noun phrase): A particularly excellent or noteworthy film.
   Example: “The Grand Budapest Hotel” is widely regarded as a cinematic gem in Wes Anderson’s filmography.

3. Uproariously funny (adjective phrase): Extremely amusing or hilarious.
   Example: The audience found the movie uproariously funny, with laughter echoing throughout the theater.

4. Deadpan delivery (noun phrase): A manner of speaking or acting characterized by expressionless or ironically matter-of-fact behavior.
   Example: The actor’s deadpan delivery of absurd lines added to the film’s comedic effect.

5. Juxtaposition (noun) /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃn/: The act of placing two or more things side by side, often to compare or contrast them.
   Example: The juxtaposition of serious themes with lighthearted humor created a unique comedic experience.

Describe a memorable trip you took with your family can be an excellent opportunity to practice using descriptive language and expressing emotions in your IELTS Speaking test.

Tips from an Examiner

As an IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in describing a movie that made you laugh:

1. Use vivid language: Employ descriptive words and phrases to paint a clear picture of the movie and your experience watching it.

2. Vary your vocabulary: Avoid repetition by using synonyms and different ways to express laughter and enjoyment.

3. Structure your response: Organize your thoughts logically, addressing all parts of the question in a coherent manner.

4. Provide specific examples: Include particular scenes or dialogues that you found funny to support your points.

5. Express personal opinions: Don’t just describe the movie; explain why you found it funny and how it made you feel.

6. Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and perfect tenses appropriately to discuss your experience and the movie’s content.

7. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations. Regular practice can help improve this aspect.

By following these tips and incorporating sophisticated vocabulary, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a high-scoring response in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to sound natural and confident while showcasing your language skills.

Describe a time when you taught someone to use new technology and Describe a person you enjoy spending time with are additional topics that can help you practice various aspects of the IELTS Speaking test, such as explaining processes and describing relationships.