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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe Your Favourite Movie: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 12, 2024, 08:58

Overview

An IELTS Speaking cue card is a prompt used in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) speaking test. It serves as a topic for candidates to speak about for a specified duration. Today's cue card topic is "Describe Your Favourite Movie."
 

Your favourite movie holds a special place in your heart. It's more than just a source of entertainment; it reflects your personality and values. It may have influenced your thinking, broadened your perspective, or even changed your outlook on life.
 

Throughout this discussion, we will explore sample answers for this topic, delving into the reasons why certain movies resonate with individuals and examining how they impact our lives and perceptions. Let's dive into the world of cinema and uncover the power of storytelling through the lens of our favourite movies.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe Your Favourite Movie

You should say

  • When and where did you see it?
  • What was the movie about?
  • What kind of movie was it?
  • How did you feel after watching the movie?
Sample Answer 1

Introduction:

 

  • One of my all-time favourite movies is "3 Idiots," a Bollywood film directed by Rajkumar Hirani. 
  • This comedy-drama has a special place in my heart because it's not just entertaining but also powerful messages about pursuing one's passion and challenging societal norms. 
  • Let me share why this movie has left a lasting impression on me.
     

Describing your experience/opinion/interest:

 

  • "3 Idiots" revolves around the lives of three engineering students, Rancho, Farhan, and Raju, as they navigate the pressures of academic excellence and societal expectations. 
  • As someone who has experienced the competitive education system in India, I could relate to the struggles and aspirations of the characters. 
  • The movie's humorous yet thought-provoking portrayal of the education system prompted me to reflect on the importance of following one's dreams and embracing unconventional paths to success.

 

Key highlights:

 

  • One of the key highlights of "3 Idiots" is its engaging storyline, filled with hilarious moments and heartwarming scenes that resonate with audiences of all ages. 
  • From the iconic "All Izz Well" mantra to the emotional climax at the annual college reunion, the movie keeps you captivated from start to finish. 
  • Additionally, the performances by Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi bring the characters to life, making them relatable and endearing.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, "3 Idiots" is more than just a movie; it's a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that has left a lasting impact on me. 
  • Its blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary makes it a timeless classic that continues to inspire audiences worldwide. 
  • I believe it's not just a film but a testament to the power of storytelling to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and spark positive change in society.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction:

 

  • One of my favourite movies is "Lagaan," a Bollywood epic sports drama directed by Ashutosh Gowariker. 
  • This film holds a special place in my heart because of its captivating storyline, memorable characters, and inspiring message of unity and resilience. 
  • Let me share why "Lagaan" has become a timeless classic for me.
     

Describing your experience/opinion/interest:

 

  • "Lagaan" is set in the late 19th century during the British colonial rule in India and follows the story of Bhuvan, a young farmer, who leads his village in a cricket match against the British officers to avoid oppressive taxes (Lagaan). 
  • As an Indian, I was deeply moved by the portrayal of the struggles and sacrifices made by the villagers to overcome injustice and achieve victory against all odds. 
  • The movie's powerful narrative and emotive performances profoundly impacted me, igniting a sense of pride in our cultural heritage and the spirit of resilience ingrained in our history.

 

Key highlights:

 

  • One of the key highlights of "Lagaan" is its visually stunning cinematography and authentic depiction of rural life in colonial India. 
  • From the lush landscapes of the village to the vibrant celebrations of unity and solidarity, the film transports viewers to a bygone era, immersing them in the rich tapestry of Indian culture and tradition. 
  • The cricket matches, with their nail-biting suspense and exhilarating moments, keep audiences on the edge of their seats, rooting for the underdogs and celebrating their triumphs.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, "Lagaan" is more than just a movie; it's a cinematic masterpiece celebrating the human heart's indomitable spirit. 
  • Its compelling story, breathtaking visuals, and profound message of unity and resilience make it a timeless classic that transcends borders and generations. 
  • I believe it's not just a film but a cultural treasure that reminds us of the enduring power of hope, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction:

 

  • One of the movies that holds a special place in my heart is "Taare Zameen Par," a Bollywood drama directed by Aamir Khan.
  • This film is particularly dear to me because of its poignant portrayal of childhood struggles and the importance of understanding and nurturing individual talents. 
  • Let me share why "Taare Zameen Par" has left a lasting impact on me.
     

Describing your experience/opinion/interest:

 

  • "Taare Zameen Par" tells the story of Ishaan Awasthi, a dyslexic child struggling to cope with academic pressures and societal expectations. 
  • As someone who values education and believes in the unique potential of every child, I was deeply moved by the film's exploration of learning differences and the transformative power of empathy and compassion. 
  • The movie challenged my perspective on education and inspired me to advocate for inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity and encourage creativity.
     

Key highlights:

 

  • One of the key highlights of "Taare Zameen Par" is its sensitive portrayal of Ishaan's journey of self-discovery and personal growth. 
  • Through his struggles and triumphs, the film highlights the importance of recognising and embracing individual strengths and weaknesses. 
  • Darsheel Safary brilliantly portrays Ishaan, who captures viewers' hearts with his innocence, vulnerability, and resilience in the face of adversity.
     

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, "Taare Zameen Par" is not just a movie; it's a heartfelt tribute to the power of education, empathy, and the human spirit. 
  • Its compelling storyline, heartwarming performances, and profound message of acceptance and inclusion make it a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. 
  • I believe it's not just a film but a beacon of hope and inspiration that encourages us to see the beauty and potential in every child, regardless of their challenges or differences.

When the cue card section starts, the examiner will provide the cue card containing the topic "Describe Your Favourite Movie." You will have one minute to prepare your response before speaking.
 

The best way to answer this cue card is to break down your response into small, manageable pieces. Start with a brief introduction, then describe your experience, opinion, or interest in the movie. Highlight key highlights or memorable scenes, and conclude your response by summarising your thoughts.

 

Introduction: 
 

  • Begin by introducing the topic and briefly mentioning the title and genre of your favourite movie. 
  • This sets the context for your response and informs the examiner about the focus of your description.

 

Describing your experience/opinion/interest: 
 

  • Share your personal connection to the movie and why it holds a special place in your heart. 
  • Talk about how it has influenced your thinking, changed your perspective, or impacted you. 
  • You can discuss aspects such as the storyline, characters, themes, or cinematic techniques that resonate with you.

   

Key highlights: 
 

  • Highlight the key moments or aspects of the movie that stand out to you. 
  • This could include memorable scenes, powerful performances, emotional moments, or thought-provoking themes.
  • Share specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate why these elements are significant.

 

Conclusion: 
 

  • Conclude your response by summarising your thoughts on why the movie is your favourite and how it has enriched your life. 
  • You can reflect on the lasting impression it has left on you and express your appreciation for the storytelling or filmmaking craftsmanship. 

Follow-Up Questions

In this section, we'll explore potential follow-up questions and provide examples of how to respond confidently. Let's get into these additional queries to help you prepare thoroughly for your speaking test.
 

This is the third part of the IELTS speaking test (a two-way discussion round) and lasts 4-5 minutes. 

Q1. Why do you think documentary films are not so popular?

Answer 1: Documentary films often struggle with popularity because they are perceived as educational or serious, which can be less appealing to a broad audience seeking entertainment and escapism. Many prefer watching fiction movies and TV shows that offer a temporary escape from reality, with engaging storylines and dramatic plots. 


Answer 2: Documentary films are less popular because they often tackle complex, real-world issues that can be heavy or thought-provoking. This seriousness can deter viewers looking for light-hearted, fun content to relax and unwind. Furthermore, the storytelling style of documentaries, which focuses on facts and information, might not be as engaging or captivating as the narrative-driven approach of fictional films.

Q2. How are movies and real-life different?

Answer 1: Movies and real life differ in various significant ways. Firstly, movies are scripted and directed to create a specific narrative, often with dramatic elements that heighten emotions and suspense. On the other hand, real life is unscripted and unpredictable, with events unfolding in an unplanned manner. Secondly, movies often condense time, showing events that occur over days, months, or years within two hours, whereas real-life events occur in real-time without such compression. 
 

Answer 2: The differences between movies and real life are quite pronounced. In movies, events are carefully orchestrated to fit within a specific storyline, often resulting in heightened drama, romance, or action. Real life, however, tends to be more mundane and lacks the constant excitement found in films. Additionally, movies frequently use special effects and artistic liberties to enhance the visual and emotional experience, which doesn't happen in real life. 

Q3. Do you like any particular film star? Why? 

Answer 1: Yes, I really like Aamir Khan. I admire him for his acting skills and his choice of meaningful and socially relevant films. Aamir Khan's dedication to his roles is remarkable; he goes to great lengths to prepare for his characters, which makes his performances incredibly authentic. Moreover, his involvement in projects like "Satyamev Jayate" shows his commitment to social causes, which is truly inspiring. His ability to balance commercial success with a genuine desire to make a difference sets him apart in the film industry.
 

Answer 2: Yes, I have a particular fondness for Deepika Padukone. I appreciate her versatility as an actress, effortlessly portraying a wide range of characters from different genres. Whether it’s a historical drama like "Padmaavat" or a contemporary film like "Piku," she brings depth and nuance to her performances. Additionally, Deepika is known for her poise and grace off-screen, advocating for mental health awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding it. Her openness about her own struggles with depression has helped many people feel less alone, making her a role model both on and off the screen.

Q4. Do you like movie stars who were treated like God?

Answer 1: Yes, I find the phenomenon of movie stars being treated like gods fascinating. In Indian cinema, stars like Rajinikanth are revered almost like deities by their fans. This level of adoration highlights the immense impact these stars have on people's lives, often providing a sense of hope and inspiration. While the extreme idolisation might seem excessive to some, it reflects the cultural significance and emotional connection that cinema holds in our society.
 

Answer 2: Not really; I find the idea of treating movie stars like gods a bit problematic. While I understand that people admire and respect their favourite actors, elevating them to divine status can be excessive. It can create unrealistic expectations and put immense pressure on the stars themselves. I believe it’s important to appreciate and celebrate actors for their craft without losing perspective on their human flaws and limitations.

FAQs

Q. How can I prepare for the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. To prepare for the IELTS Speaking test, practising speaking English regularly with friends, family, or language partners is essential. Familiarise yourself with the test format and practice answering sample questions. Work on expanding your vocabulary, improving your grammar and pronunciation, and seeking feedback from teachers or tutors to help refine your speaking skills.

Q. Can I use slang or informal language in the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. Using slang or overly informal language in the IELTS Speaking test is generally not recommended. The test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English, which includes using appropriate language for different contexts. While speaking naturally and conversationally is essential, it's best to avoid slang or language that may be too casual

Q. What should I do if I don't understand a question during the test?

Ans. If you encounter a question you don't understand during the IELTS Speaking test, don't panic. Politely ask the examiner to repeat or clarify the question for you. It's essential to ensure you fully comprehend the question before responding to provide an accurate and relevant answer. Seeking clarification demonstrates your communication skills and ensures you can respond effectively to the examiner's prompts.

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