Describe a film you watched or Describe a film that impressed you a lot.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

When and where you watched it?
What was the movie about?
Why you chose to watch it?
How you felt about it? and explain why it made you think a lot?

11 unique answers with expert feedback

What specific scenes in 'The Substance' stood out to you the most?

The scenes that stood out the most were those that depicted the female lead's struggles to maintain balance in her life. The emotional depth and the way she navigated her challenges were very impactful. Additionally, the bold scenes, while controversial, added to the intensity of her journey.

How do you think films like 'The Substance' influence viewers' perspectives on life?

Films like 'The Substance' can significantly influence viewers by providing relatable scenarios that encourage self-reflection. They often highlight important life lessons, such as the importance of balance and respect for others, which can resonate deeply with audiences and inspire them to make positive changes.

Do you prefer watching films with strong messages or entertaining plots? Why?

I prefer films with strong messages because they not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion. Movies like 'The Substance' challenge viewers to reflect on their own lives and values, making the viewing experience more meaningful and impactful.

Band 6-7

00:00

Recently, I have watched a movie called Young Sheldon. In this movie, there is a child, a nine-year-old child who is very intelligent and skeptical mind. He has a very sceptical mind and he used to generate so many different ideas by his own and he has a family. He has a family. He has one brother and one younger sister and one elder brother and father and mother. So, they live together happily with their grandmother and the young Sheldon who is really intelligent and exceptional. He is the one who speaks really well and who is the youngest and smartest in their family. Because of that, he should be in third grade but he sits along with his elder brother on seventh class. It's like he is the future genius. Right now, he is a genius but he is the future scientist maybe and he is just planning about doing really good things in his future. He could get a book based upon him and I just really love a lot like his ideas, how he generates ideas and it blows my mind with that topic. So yeah, it made me think a lot too. I wish I could be like him like I can improve myself.

Follow up questions

What themes did you find most interesting in Young Sheldon?

I found the themes of intelligence and family dynamics very interesting. The way Young Sheldon navigates his relationships with his family while being exceptionally smart adds depth to the story. It highlights the challenges and joys of being a gifted child in a typical family setting.

How do you think Young Sheldon compares to other films or shows about children?

Young Sheldon stands out because it combines humor with a heartfelt portrayal of a gifted child. Unlike many shows that focus solely on the comedic aspects, it also delves into the emotional struggles and triumphs of being different, making it relatable and thought-provoking.

Have you learned anything from Young Sheldon that you apply in your own life?

Yes, I learned the importance of curiosity and creativity. Young Sheldon's ability to think outside the box inspires me to embrace my own ideas and pursue my interests passionately. It encourages me to be more inquisitive and to never shy away from expressing my thoughts.

Band 6-7

00:00

I am going to talk about a film which I watched recently on December 5th, 2024 in Asian cinemas. The complete film was about a life of a smuggler and his family, like how a smuggler develop from a lower stage to a higher stage, how he go the extra miles in every step. Moreover, I watched this film because the actress, actor is my favorite hero. He is none other than Alva Arjun. He is very fascinating towards his work. I love the acting and the dance of Alva Arjun. I felt over the moon when I was watching the movie. I think a lot about this movie, how a smuggler can transport smuggling goods from state to state, then country to country, then out of country. The whole concept is exchanging unwanted, illegal goods from origin to manufacturing area. So, the whole movie has given me a lot of joy.

Follow up questions

What themes did you find most compelling in the film?

The themes of ambition and the moral dilemmas faced by the smuggler were compelling. It highlighted the struggles between right and wrong, and how circumstances can push someone into illegal activities. The film made me reflect on the choices people make for survival.

How does this film compare to other films you've seen?

This film stands out due to its unique storyline about smuggling, which is less commonly explored. Unlike typical action films, it delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters, making it more relatable and thought-provoking compared to others I've seen.

What impact did the film have on your perspective about smuggling?

The film gave me a deeper understanding of the complexities of smuggling. It portrayed the smuggler not just as a criminal, but as a person with a family and struggles, which made me reconsider the societal factors that lead individuals to such paths.

Practice other cue cards

Band 6-7

00:00

Recently, I watched a very old and one famous movie that is Baby's Day Out and I have listened to from my friend that it is really a nice movie and I am expecting, so they insisted me to watch that film. So, I watched it over OTT and I really loved that movie. It is all about how one day a child just go out alone without his parents around him. So, it was very beautiful movie and talks about the gestures and emotions of the little child that they go through and all the environment when he get first time with the touch with the environment, is alone experience with it. So, it is very great movie and as I am expecting, so I really am connecting to a child. So, I really loved that movie. Moreover, these kinds of movies are relaxing, not so much creating a pressure on you and creating some kind of a negative emotions. So, it gives you a refreshing, joyful and a good three and a half hours that I have spent watching on it and I really watched it. It is full comedy. So, I would also prefer my friends to watch it.

Follow up questions

What other films do you enjoy watching?

I enjoy watching a variety of films, especially comedies and animated movies. Films like 'Toy Story' and 'The Incredibles' are among my favorites because they are entertaining and have great messages. I also appreciate documentaries that provide insights into different cultures.

How do films impact your mood or emotions?

Films have a significant impact on my mood. Comedies like 'Baby's Day Out' make me feel relaxed and happy, while dramas can evoke deeper emotions. I often watch films to escape reality or to unwind after a long day, and they help me connect with different feelings.

Do you think films can influence people's behavior?

Yes, I believe films can influence behavior. They can shape perceptions and inspire people to act in certain ways. For example, films that promote kindness or bravery can motivate viewers to adopt those traits in real life. However, it's important to critically evaluate the messages conveyed.

Band 6-7

00:00

A few days back I watched a movie called Kerala Story. It was about the conversions that have been happening in Kerala. All the Hindu girls that have been trapped and getting converted into Islam under the pretense of love marriage and pregnancy. I watched the film at my home. I randomly stumbled upon it and I reluctantly started the movie at first but it quickly got my attention as it was very close to what was happening actually in our country. They very bravely executed the movie without the fear of the controversy that has been surrounded with the film. I would say it is an extraordinary film because it very beautifully captured and represented the vulnerability that the young girls are at present in Kerala. Not only in Kerala, certainly generally young girls tend to have this vulnerable mentality when it comes to attraction and this misuse of somebody's love and taking them for granted and using their love to convert them into some religion is a very horrible thing to do and they have beautifully tried to do it.

Follow up questions

What themes do you think are important in films like Kerala Story?

I believe themes such as vulnerability, manipulation, and the impact of societal pressures are crucial. Films like Kerala Story highlight how young individuals can be easily influenced by love and societal expectations, which can lead to serious consequences.

How do you think films can influence public perception of social issues?

Films have a powerful ability to shape public perception by bringing attention to social issues. They can evoke empathy and provoke discussions, making audiences more aware of the realities faced by certain groups, as seen in Kerala Story's portrayal of young girls' vulnerabilities.

Do you think controversial films are necessary for social change?

Yes, I think controversial films can be necessary for social change. They challenge the status quo and encourage viewers to think critically about important issues. By sparking conversations, they can lead to greater awareness and potentially inspire action towards change.

Show all 11 answers

Cue 1:When and where you watched it?

Begin by mentioning the specific time and location where you watched the film.
Include any relevant details about the atmosphere or company you had while watching.

Example

I watched the film '3 Idiots' last year during the Diwali holidays at home with my family. It was a cozy evening, and we decided to have a movie night together, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

Cue 2:What was the movie about?

Summarize the main plot of the film in a few sentences.
Highlight the key themes or messages that the film conveys.

Example

'3 Idiots' is a comedy-drama that revolves around the lives of three engineering students in India. It explores themes of friendship, the pressure of academic success, and the importance of pursuing one's passion rather than conforming to societal expectations.

Cue 3:Why you chose to watch it?

Explain your motivation for selecting this particular film.
Mention any recommendations or reviews that influenced your decision.

Example

I chose to watch '3 Idiots' because I had heard so many positive reviews from friends and family. They praised its humor and the valuable life lessons it imparts, which made me curious to see it for myself.

Cue 4:How you felt about it? and explain why it made you think a lot?

Describe your emotional response to the film and any thoughts it provoked.
Discuss specific scenes or quotes that resonated with you and why they were impactful.

Example

I felt inspired and reflective after watching '3 Idiots'. The message about following your dreams really struck a chord with me, especially the scene where the character Rancho encourages his friends to think differently about their futures. It made me reconsider my own career choices and the importance of passion in life.

Conclusion

Summarize your overall impression of the film.
Mention whether you would recommend it to others and why.

Example

In conclusion, '3 Idiots' is not just a film; it's a thought-provoking journey that challenges societal norms. I would highly recommend it to anyone, as it offers both entertainment and valuable life lessons that can inspire viewers to pursue their true passions.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Avoid Vague Descriptions

Using vague language can make your answer unclear and unengaging. Specific details help the examiner understand your experience better and make your response more memorable.

Tip

Include specific scenes, characters, or emotions from the film to provide a clearer picture of your experience.

2: Don't Rush Your Response

Speaking too quickly can lead to mistakes and make it hard for the examiner to follow your thoughts. It's important to take your time to articulate your ideas clearly.

Tip

Pause briefly between points to gather your thoughts and ensure clarity in your speech.

Avoid Overly Simple Language

Using overly simple or repetitive language can make your response sound less impressive. Variety in vocabulary and sentence structure can enhance your answer.

Tip

Try to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentences to express your thoughts more effectively.

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Answer

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Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

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Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

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Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

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Anonymous student Band 7.5

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Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.