The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about memorable experiences, including movies that have made a lasting impact. This topic is particularly common in Part 2 of the test, where candidates are asked to speak at length about a specific subject. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about a movie that left a strong impression, with sample answers for different band scores.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may be asked general questions about movies and your viewing habits. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: How often do you watch movies?
A: (Band 7-8 answer) I’d say I’m quite an avid moviegoer. I try to catch a new film at the cinema at least once a month, and I often stream movies at home during weekends. It’s a great way to unwind and explore different stories and cultures.
describe a book or movie that is your favorite
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a movie you watched recently that left a strong impression on you.
You should say:
- What the movie was
- When and where you watched it
- What it was about
- And explain why it left a strong impression on you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I recently watched a movie called ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ on Netflix last month. It’s an older film, but I had never seen it before. The movie is about a banker named Andy who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank State Penitentiary. It shows his life in prison over several decades and his friendship with another inmate named Red.
The movie left a strong impression on me because of its powerful message about hope and perseverance. Andy never gives up hope of proving his innocence and eventually escapes after many years. I was really moved by his determination and how he helped other prisoners during his time there.
The acting was also exceptional, especially by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. Their performances made the characters feel so real and relatable. The film’s portrayal of friendship and human resilience in the face of injustice was truly inspiring.
Overall, the movie made me think a lot about the importance of never losing hope, even in the darkest situations. It’s a story that has stayed with me long after watching it.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I recently had the pleasure of watching Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending masterpiece ‘Inception’ at a local cinema’s classic movie night. This 2010 sci-fi thriller left an indelible mark on my psyche with its intricate plot and stunning visuals.
The film revolves around Dom Cobb, a skilled thief with the rare ability to ‘extract’ information from people’s minds while they’re dreaming. He’s offered a chance to regain his old life as payment for a task considered to be impossible: ‘inception’, the implantation of another person’s idea into a target’s subconscious.
What struck me most profoundly about ‘Inception’ was its layered complexity and philosophical undertones. The movie seamlessly blends action sequences with deep existential questions about the nature of reality and the power of ideas. Nolan’s direction is nothing short of masterful, creating a labyrinthine narrative that demands the viewer’s full attention and rewards multiple viewings.
The stellar ensemble cast, led by Leonardo DiCaprio, delivers nuanced performances that bring depth to their characters. The film’s innovative use of practical effects and CGI creates a visually stunning dreamscape that still holds up more than a decade later.
Moreover, the film’s exploration of the subconscious mind and the blurring lines between dreams and reality resonated with me on a personal level. It prompted me to reflect on the power of our thoughts and the subjective nature of our experiences.
Hans Zimmer’s haunting score, particularly the track ‘Time’, adds another layer of emotional depth to the film. The music lingers in your mind long after the credits roll, much like the movie’s central concepts.
In essence, ‘Inception’ left a strong impression on me due to its intellectual stimulation, visual grandeur, and emotional resonance. It’s a film that not only entertains but also challenges the viewer to question their perceptions and ponder the nature of reality itself.”
Follow-up Questions
Q: Do you think movies can influence people’s behavior?
A: (Band 8-9) Absolutely, movies can wield considerable influence over people’s behavior and perceptions. Films have the unique power to transport viewers into different worlds and perspectives, often leading to shifts in attitudes and even inspiring action. For instance, documentaries about environmental issues have been known to spark increased interest in conservation efforts. Similarly, movies that tackle social issues can raise awareness and promote empathy towards marginalized groups. However, it’s crucial to remember that this influence can be both positive and negative. Violent or stereotypical portrayals in films can potentially reinforce harmful behaviors or biases if viewers aren’t critical in their consumption. Ultimately, the extent of a movie’s influence often depends on the individual viewer’s critical thinking skills and pre-existing beliefs.
describe a movie that made you emotional
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think the film industry has changed in recent years?
A: (Band 6-7) I think the film industry has changed a lot recently. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime have become really popular, and they’re making their own movies now. This has changed how people watch films, as many prefer to watch at home instead of going to the cinema. Also, special effects have gotten much better, so we’re seeing more impressive visuals in movies.
A: (Band 8-9) The film industry has undergone a paradigm shift in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. The rise of streaming platforms has revolutionized content distribution, challenging the traditional theatrical release model. This shift has led to a democratization of filmmaking, allowing for more diverse voices and niche content to reach audiences.
Moreover, the integration of cutting-edge technologies like CGI, 3D printing, and virtual reality has pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling, enabling filmmakers to create increasingly immersive experiences. The industry has also seen a surge in international collaborations, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering a more global approach to filmmaking.
Another significant change is the growing emphasis on diversity and representation both on and off-screen, reflecting a broader societal push for inclusivity. This has resulted in more varied narratives and perspectives being brought to the forefront of cinema.
Lastly, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated certain trends, such as the shift towards digital premieres and the blurring of lines between theatrical and streaming releases. This has prompted the industry to reevaluate traditional distribution models and adapt to a rapidly evolving media landscape.
Q: Do you think the quality of movies has improved over time?
A: (Band 7-8) In my opinion, the quality of movies has indeed improved in many aspects over time, but it’s not a straightforward progression. On the technical side, there’s no doubt that advancements in cinematography, sound design, and visual effects have dramatically enhanced the viewing experience. Modern films often boast stunning visuals and immersive soundscapes that weren’t possible in earlier decades.
However, when it comes to storytelling and content, the picture is more nuanced. While we now have access to a wider variety of films from different cultures and perspectives, which is certainly a positive development, there’s also an argument that the prevalence of sequels, remakes, and franchise films has led to a certain homogenization of mainstream cinema.
That being said, I believe the overall quality has improved because filmmakers now have more tools at their disposal to bring their visions to life. Additionally, the rise of independent cinema and international films reaching global audiences has broadened the scope of storytelling, offering more diverse and thought-provoking content. Ultimately, while not every modern film is a masterpiece, the best films of today often combine technical brilliance with compelling narratives in ways that weren’t possible before.
describe a documentary you recently watched
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Cinematic masterpiece /ˌsɪnəˈmætɪk ˈmæstəpiːs/ – A film that is considered to be outstanding or exceptional in the art of cinema.
Example: “The Godfather is widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece.” -
Thought-provoking /ˈθɔːt prəˌvoʊkɪŋ/ – Stimulating careful consideration or attention.
Example: “The documentary raised several thought-provoking questions about climate change.” -
Visually stunning /ˈvɪʒuəli ˈstʌnɪŋ/ – Having an appearance that is exceptionally impressive or attractive.
Example: “Avatar’s alien world was visually stunning, with its bioluminescent forests and floating mountains.” -
Character development /ˈkærəktər dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The process of creating a believable character in fiction by giving the character depth and personality.
Example: “The character development in Breaking Bad is exceptional, showing Walter White’s transformation over the series.” -
Plot twist /plɒt twɪst/ – An unexpected change in the direction or expected outcome of the plot in a film, TV series, or other narrative work.
Example: “The plot twist at the end of The Sixth Sense completely changes how you view the entire movie.” -
Cinematography /ˌsɪnəməˈtɒɡrəfi/ – The art of making motion pictures, especially the photography and camera work.
Example: “The cinematography in ‘The Revenant’ beautifully captures the harsh wilderness of the American frontier.”
describe a recent film you watched at home
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a movie:
-
Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate film-specific terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.
-
Provide detailed responses: Elaborate on your answers, giving specific examples from the movie to support your points.
-
Show critical thinking: Don’t just describe the plot; analyze themes, cinematography, acting, and the film’s impact on you or society.
-
Practice fluency: Speak smoothly and confidently, using appropriate linking words to connect your ideas.
-
Maintain good pronunciation: Pay attention to word stress and intonation to enhance your delivery.
-
Engage with the examiner: Show enthusiasm for the topic and be ready to expand on your answers if prompted.
Remember, the key to success is not just in memorizing answers, but in developing the ability to speak naturally and thoughtfully about a wide range of topics related to movies and entertainment.
describe a recent movie that left a strong impression on you
By following these guidelines and incorporating rich vocabulary and well-structured responses, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss movies that have left a strong impression in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and expose yourself to a variety of films to broaden your perspective and vocabulary in this topic area.