The topic “describe a movie you recently watched and enjoyed” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It’s likely to appear in future exams as it allows examiners to assess a candidate’s ability to express opinions, describe experiences, and use vocabulary related to entertainment. Let’s explore how to excel in answering questions on this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about movies and your viewing habits. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Q: Do you enjoy watching movies?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I find movies entertaining and a great way to relax after a busy day. I try to watch at least one or two movies every week.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about cinema. Not only do I find films incredibly entertaining, but I also see them as a powerful medium for storytelling and cultural expression. I make it a point to watch a diverse range of movies, from Hollywood blockbusters to independent foreign films, at least a few times a week.
Q: What kinds of movies do you prefer?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I generally prefer action and comedy movies. They’re exciting and help me unwind. I also enjoy some dramas if they have a good story.
Band 8-9 Answer:
My taste in films is quite eclectic. While I have a particular fondness for thought-provoking psychological thrillers and nuanced character-driven dramas, I also appreciate well-crafted comedies and innovative science fiction. I believe each genre offers unique storytelling opportunities and cinematic experiences.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a movie you recently watched and enjoyed
You should say:
- What the movie was
- When and where you watched it
- What it was about
- And explain why you enjoyed itSample Answer (Band 8-9):
The movie I’d like to talk about is “Parasite“, a South Korean film that I watched just last month at a local independent cinema. This critically acclaimed masterpiece, directed by Bong Joon-ho, left an indelible impression on me.
“Parasite” is a genre-defying film that seamlessly blends elements of dark comedy, thriller, and social satire. It revolves around the Kim family, who are struggling to make ends meet in a basement apartment in Seoul. Through a series of clever manipulations, they gradually infiltrate the wealthy Park family’s household, taking on various roles as employees.
What captivated me about this film was its multi-layered storytelling. On the surface, it’s an engrossing tale of deception and class struggle. But as the narrative unfolds, it delves deeper into themes of social inequality, aspiration, and the human condition. The way the director juxtaposes the lives of the rich and poor, often using visual metaphors like the contrast between the Kims’ semi-basement home and the Parks’ opulent residence, is simply masterful.
The performances were nothing short of exceptional. Each actor brought depth and nuance to their character, making them feel incredibly real and relatable, despite the increasingly outlandish situations they find themselves in.
What I found particularly impressive was how the film maintains tension throughout its runtime. Just when you think you know where the story is headed, it takes an unexpected turn, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie because it challenged my perceptions and made me reflect on societal issues long after the credits rolled. It’s a film that defies easy categorization and rewards multiple viewings with its intricate details and layered symbolism. The way it seamlessly transitions between humor, suspense, and social commentary is a testament to the director’s skill and vision.
In conclusion, “Parasite” is not just a movie I enjoyed; it’s a cinematic experience that has broadened my perspective on both filmmaking and society. Its ability to entertain, provoke thought, and elicit emotion in equal measure makes it, in my opinion, a true modern classic.
Follow-up Questions:
- How does this movie compare to others in the same genre?
- Would you recommend this movie to others? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think this movie is better than most others in the same genre because it has a unique story and good acting. I would definitely recommend it to my friends who like thought-provoking films because it’s entertaining and makes you think about society.
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Parasite” stands out in its genre due to its unparalleled blend of social commentary and thriller elements. Unlike many films that tackle similar themes, it manages to be both entertaining and profound without feeling didactic. I would wholeheartedly recommend this movie to others, particularly those who appreciate nuanced storytelling and are open to challenging their perspectives on social issues. It’s the kind of film that sparks conversations and leaves a lasting impact, which I believe is the hallmark of truly great cinema.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to movies and entertainment. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Q: How do you think cinema has changed in the last few decades?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Cinema has changed a lot in recent years. The biggest changes are in technology, with better special effects and 3D movies. Also, there are more streaming services now, so people can watch movies at home easily. The stories in movies have also become more diverse, covering different cultures and social issues.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of cinema over the past few decades has been nothing short of revolutionary. Technologically, we’ve seen a paradigm shift from traditional filmmaking techniques to cutting-edge digital technologies, enabling filmmakers to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. This has led to the proliferation of spectacle-driven blockbusters with jaw-dropping visual effects.
Simultaneously, there’s been a significant democratization of filmmaking. The advent of affordable high-quality cameras and editing software has lowered the barriers to entry, allowing independent filmmakers to produce professional-grade content on modest budgets.
The rise of streaming platforms has fundamentally altered distribution models, challenging the dominance of traditional theatrical releases. This has led to a surge in content production, particularly in long-form storytelling through series and mini-series.
Thematically, there’s been a noticeable shift towards more diverse and inclusive storytelling. Filmmakers are increasingly tackling complex social issues and representing underrepresented communities, reflecting a growing demand for more authentic and varied narratives.
Lastly, the globalization of cinema has accelerated, with international films gaining wider recognition and influencing global filmmaking trends. This cross-pollination of ideas and techniques has led to a more rich and varied cinematic landscape.
Q: Do you think movies have the power to influence society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe movies can influence society quite a lot. They can change people’s opinions on important issues by showing different perspectives. For example, movies about environmental problems can make people more aware of climate change. Also, movies can influence fashion and popular culture, especially among young people.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe movies wield considerable influence over society, often acting as a powerful catalyst for social change. Films have the unique ability to reach vast audiences and evoke strong emotional responses, making them an effective medium for shaping public opinion and challenging societal norms.
Historically, we’ve seen how films have brought marginalized issues into the mainstream, sparking public discourse on topics that might otherwise remain ignored. For instance, movies tackling racial inequality or LGBTQ+ rights have played a significant role in fostering empathy and promoting social progress.
Moreover, cinema often serves as a mirror to society, reflecting current issues and anxieties. By doing so, it can raise awareness about pressing social problems and even inspire action. Documentaries, in particular, have been known to galvanize public opinion and drive policy changes.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this influence can be double-edged. While movies can promote positive values, they can also perpetuate stereotypes or glamorize harmful behaviors if not handled responsibly. This underscores the importance of media literacy and critical viewing.
In essence, the power of cinema to influence society lies in its ability to transport viewers into different realities, challenge preconceptions, and foster empathy. When wielded thoughtfully, it can be a formidable tool for social transformation and cultural evolution.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Critically acclaimed /ˈkrɪtɪkəli əˈkleɪmd/ (adj): Praised by critics
Example: “The critically acclaimed film won several awards at international festivals.” -
Genre-defying /ˈʒɒnrə dɪˈfaɪɪŋ/ (adj): Not fitting into a single genre
Example: “Her genre-defying novel blends elements of science fiction and historical drama.” -
Seamlessly blend /ˈsiːmləsli blɛnd/ (v): To mix different elements smoothly
Example: “The director seamlessly blends humor and pathos in this thought-provoking film.” -
Captivate /ˈkæptɪveɪt/ (v): To attract and hold the interest of
Example: “The intricate plot captivated the audience from start to finish.” -
Multi-layered /ˌmʌltiˈleɪəd/ (adj): Having many levels of meaning or complexity
Example: “The multi-layered narrative rewards repeated viewings.” -
Juxtapose /ˈdʒʌkstəpəʊz/ (v): To place different things side by side for contrast
Example: “The film juxtaposes scenes of extreme wealth with those of abject poverty.” -
Nuance /ˈnjuːɑːns/ (n): A subtle difference in meaning or expression
Example: “The actor’s performance was full of nuance, revealing the character’s complex emotions.” -
Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (n): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
Example: “The advent of streaming services has caused a paradigm shift in how we consume media.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing movies:
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Use a wide range of vocabulary related to cinema and emotions. Don’t just say a movie was “good” or “interesting” – be specific about what aspects you enjoyed and why.
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Practice describing plots without giving away too much detail. Focus on themes and your personal reaction to the film.
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Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to cinema, such as its impact on society or changes in the industry.
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Use complex sentence structures and idiomatic expressions where appropriate to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Show critical thinking by analyzing the film’s message or techniques, not just recounting the story.
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Be honest in your opinions – examiners are interested in how you express your views, not what those views are.
Remember, the key to success is not just what you say, but how articulate and fluent you are in expressing your ideas.
Describe a new skill you learned during the lockdown can be another interesting topic to practice for your IELTS Speaking test. It allows you to showcase your ability to discuss personal experiences and reflect on self-improvement, which are valuable skills in the IELTS Speaking assessment.