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Writing a Movie Review: Teaching Tips and Lesson Ideas

To me, there’s nothing more enjoyable as a middle school teacher than blending films into English language arts classes. I’m a real movie lover, and I find that a good film-based activity is the perfect way to engage students in work on essential ELA skills in the last few weeks of school.

Thanks to Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming services, our students have more access to films than people at any other time in history! But I’ve noticed that even with so much exposure to movies, students need quite a lot of guidance to view films critically and with intention. 

This is why I find an end-of-year film review project to be so useful in the ELA classroom. Most students are natural movie reviewers already. They always come in on Monday mornings buzzing about the movies they saw over the weekend!

With this in mind, I like to tap into their natural instincts to share what they love, and help them learn the step-by-step organizational skills for writing a film review in the process. Here’s how this looks in the classroom:

1. Show Students Film Review Examples

To begin, I like to lead a brief whole-class discussion where we chat about the difference between getting a recommendation from a friend and reading a professional movie review . During this discussion, I point out that there are some specific things that a movie reviewer considers, including cinematography, actors, lighting, and sound.

Once students have the basic idea, I like to show them several examples of film reviews in different formats. If your school receives a newspaper subscription, you could collect and save film reviews to share with your class. Or, you may prefer a more modern approach and search online! Written film reviews tend to follow a similar structure and provide students with a good understanding of what they need to include.

Because most students also enjoy video content, we spend time looking at YouTube reviews as well. I might be dating myself, but I like to show old clips of Siskel and Ebert, the famous “two thumbs up” reviewers from the ‘80s and ‘90s! What I especially enjoy about their style is that they don’t always agree, but their reviews are still effective and engaging.

2. Know Your Audience

As we wrap up this lesson, I ask students to consider the audience of each review. For example, is the review aimed at children, adults, or even a teen magazine? The target audience affects not only tone and style, but also impacts the focus of the review. For example, a teen magazine review might focus on the famous actors of the film. By contrast, a special effects magazine might provide insight into a particular element of the filmmaking process.

3. Teach How to Watch the Film

The next step is to teach students how to watch a film with purpose, rather than simply for pleasure! In an ideal situation, I recommend watching a film twice. The first time is to get an overall understanding of the plot, and then to consider the choices the director and actors made in creating the film.

In the classroom, I like to pause the film frequently and let my students jot down notes. While they are watching, I remind them to consider each scene with an observant eye. I ask:

• What does the director choose to show (or not show)?
• How do the actors convey emotion, depth, and intention through their movements, as well as their words? 

4. Provide Common Vocabulary

As part of a film study, it’s important for students to be able to speak the “language” of movie making. After viewing the movie, I like to take some time to outline some key terms to help students write their reviews.

Words like blockbuster, avant-garde, disjointed, or uninspired can help elevate movie reviews in ELA from “friendly recommendations” to “review quality.” I find a printable list of useful writing terms is especially helpful. This is especially true if you want to avoid the “It was a good movie,” trap! 

5. Provide An Organizational Framework

When it comes to actually writing the review, I like to be quite specific in my instructions, breaking down the review into specific paragraphs .

For example, introductory paragraphs should start by engaging the reader with a strong opinion, thought-provoking statement, or even a quote to act as a “hook.” I like to remind students that the purpose of this paragraph is also to share some basic information about the film. This should include title, director, genre, and setting, as well as a brief plot overview. No spoilers, please!

Next, I have students plot out their paragraph about the main characters of the movie. I like to begin this process by having them reflect on the portrayal of the characters, and whether the actors are well-suited for their roles. As they evaluate the performances, middle school ELA students can support their opinions using evidence and examples from the film.

Because film techniques can vary so much from movie to movie, I like to give quite a lot of freedom in the next paragraph. I ask students to consider the following film techniques and choose one to focus on in detail:

• Camera work
• Sound effects

After they have evaluated film techniques, it’s time for students to flex their ELA muscles and reflect on the overall theme of the movie. In their fourth paragraph, I ask them to consider how the director uses filming techniques, set design, characters, conflict, or other elements to express or develop this theme. I like to guide this paragraph by asking questions like:

• Has the theme been developed effectively?
• Does it have an impact on the viewer, a specific community, or the world?

Finally, it’s time to wrap up the review! In this final paragraph, students need to give the film a rating in whatever “system” they choose. Popular choices in my classroom include thumbs up, stars, or even popcorn kernels on a scale of one to five! As they justify their rating and provide their personal opinions, I also encourage the class to consider what type of person would enjoy the movie.

6. Give Prompting Questions

In my experience, prompting questions help students focus on key things to include in their ELA movie review. I like to remind my students that graphic organizers are a tool for working through their ideas. They don’t need to be filled out in complete sentences, but they provide a useful framework for structuring their review. 

7. Make time For Peer Feedback & Editing

While students always resist the peer feedback and editing stage of the writing process, it really makes a difference in their overall quality of work.

Before they finalize their review, I have students work with a peer for a closer look at the grammatical and structural elements of their movie review. One way to do this is to follow the “three stars and a wish” format. In this activity, each student has to identify three positive things about the writing and one “wish” – an area of improvement.

Alternatively, if you have an established peer editing process in your classroom, this is a great opportunity to use it!

8. Provide Options for Presentation

Now for the fun part – the presentation of the movie review! I believe that students do their best work when they can express choice and voice in their finished product. 

Movie reviews can be shared in a lot of different ways (in the ELA classroom and in real life!). First, I have students select whether they want to share their completed review as a newspaper article, blog post, podcast, pre-recorded video, or even a live presentation in class.

If you’re tight on time, one trick I love is to put students in small groups (I find four works well) and present their reviews to each other. This alternative to whole-class presentations frees me up to circulate among the different groups. You’d be surprised at how much you can see and hear while doing this! At the end of each presentation, I like to have students grade each other using a common rubric. The presenters can self-assess their work as well!

There you have it! I hope you have a blast bringing a movie review assignment into your middle school ELA classroom. Three cheers to the end of the year!

Looking to integrate more videos into your ELA classroom? Check out my suggestions for 7 Ways to Bring Videos Into Secondary ELA .

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How to write a film review

Writing a review is an option in many different English language exams, and films are such an obvious choice for reviews, so knowing how to write a film review is pretty important. It’s a great topic for the classroom too. Everyone watches films and there is a lot of opportunity to teach vocabulary, either film-related vocabulary or film review adjectives. I like to start off a class about films with some chat, or my personal favourite, the Movie Music Quiz , which also now has an excellent Movie Picture Quiz version too.

The structure of a film review

Like any writing task, it’s essential to know the structure of a film review before you start writing. A basic film review template shows you how to write a film review using a simple structure. Film reviews for First (FCE) and Advanced (CAE) Cambridge exams, as well as Trinity ISE exams, should all use a 4 paragraph structure. Another thing to remember is that your review should always have a title, and that title should include the name of the film.

• Introduction – Essential details and mini-summary
• Summary – A description of the film and some important details
• Analysis – An evaluation of different elements
• Conclusion – Your opinion and a recommendation

Introduction

In the introduction of a film review, it is crucial to mention the film title and the names of the director and the main actors. A brief summary of the film’s plot and background information can also be included, but it should not give away too much detail. The introduction should engage the reader and entice them to continue reading the review. Additionally, it is important to mention the genre and target audience of the film, which will give the reader an idea of what to expect.

In the summary section, the film review should give a comprehensive but concise description of the film, focusing on the plot, characters, and any significant events. The summary should be written in a way that does not give away the ending or spoil the film for the reader. It is important to maintain objectivity and not include personal opinions in this section. This section should provide enough detail for the reader to have a clear understanding of the film without giving too much away.

The analysis section is where the reviewer can showcase their critical skills and provide an in-depth evaluation of the film. The review should examine various elements of the film such as the script, direction, cinematography, acting, and special effects. You could also make a comparison to similar films in the same genre. The analysis should be written in an objective style with the opinion only showing through the language used.

In the conclusion, the reviewer should give their personal opinion of the film, summarising their thoughts on its strengths and weaknesses. They should also consider the target audience and whether they believe the film will appeal to them. Finally, the reviewer should provide a clear recommendation. The conclusion should be concise, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the reviewer’s overall opinion of the film.

Using adjectives in reviews

Reviews are a great way to show off your language with impressive adjectives. If you read a film review in a newspaper or magazine, you’ll notice that the reviewer rarely, if ever, gives an explicit direct opinion. However, their opinion of the film is always crystal clear. This is through the use of adjectives.

Many adjectives have a clear connotation. They are either perceived as positive or negative. Compare these two examples. Which one is a positive description and which is negative?

• It’s a first-rate experience with an imaginative plot and a star-studded cast.
• The second-rate writing combined with weak performances is typical of this director’s work.

When using adjectives in a film review, it is important to choose words that accurately convey the reviewer’s opinion. Adjectives with strong connotations, either positive or negative, can be very effective in expressing the reviewer’s thoughts about the film. However, it is also important to use a variety of adjectives to avoid repetition and keep the review interesting. The use of adjectives can also help to paint a picture of the film, allowing the reader to get a sense of its atmosphere and tone.

The materials

Many exams, such as the Cambridge First (FCE) and Advanced (CAE) exams, as well as Trinity ISE exams, require students to write a film review as part of their writing task. These materials will provide students with a solid understanding of the structure of a film review and help them to develop their writing skills. This will give them the confidence they need to write a review that meets the requirements of the exam and impresses the examiner.

The materials will help you learn how to write an introduction, summary, analysis, and conclusion of a film review. You will also see a range of useful adjectives that you can use to express your opinions in their reviews. Finally, you will get an opportunity to practise writing film reviews, which will help you to develop your skills. Then you can check your answers with the samples provided in the answer key. Whether you’re preparing for an exam or just looking to improve your writing skills, these materials will provide you with everything you need to write a great film review.

1 thought on “How to write a film review”

Interesting and useful material to be used in class. thanks!

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StoryLearning

Learn A Language Through Stories

The 20 Best Movies For English Learners

“What movie should I watch to improve my English?”

How many times have you asked yourself that question?

In this post I'll recommend 20 movies for English learners.

But before I do that, let me tell you that if you're a movie lover who wants to improve your English skills through movies, you MUST check out Cara Leopold's website .

Cara is the most qualified and passionate English teacher I know who can help you improve your English listening and conversational skills through films.

That said, let's dive into the 20 best movies for English learners.

For a quick overview, or to skip to the movie that interests you most, check out the table of contents below. Otherwise, keep scrolling to discover these movies for English learners.

Table of Contents

1. forrest gump (1994).

“Forrest Gump” is one of my favourite movies. I watched it when I was a child, when I was a teenager and I watched it last week too. 

This is a heartwarming and iconic film that will take you on a journey through the extraordinary life of Forrest Gump, the main character played by a young Tom Hanks. 

The plot unfolds as Forrest tells his life story to strangers while sitting on a park bench.

You’ll see Forrest being bullied, becoming a ping pong champion, falling in love, fighting in the Vietnam War, running nonstop around the world and embarking on many other amazing adventures.

The movie is set in Alabama, US, so the characters speak with a southern American accent. I don’t think you’ll have a lot of trouble understanding Forrest as he speaks slowly and uses simple language. 

In general, the dialogues contain a lot of common phrases in English that can be useful to improve your conversational English skills . 

The story also covers important events, so you can learn about the history and culture of the US while practicing your listening skills.

Highly recommended.

2.The Lion King (1994)

I’m sure you’ve already seen this movie. “The Lion King” is one of the most popular animated movies by Walt Disney.

The main character is Simba, a young lion who goes through a lot of adventures to become king. You’ll meet his girlfriend, friends, family members and enemies.

All of them are animals, of course. In fact, you’ll only see animals from Africa in the film: lions, zebras, hyenas, monkeys, tucans, warthogs, meerkats, and many others.

What makes it a good movie for learning English? It’s animated, so you’ll be able to match characters and actions with the dialogue. This can also help you understand the story even if there are some words you don't know.

And if you’re up for an extra challenge, you can go to the theatre to see the musical . I saw it in London in December 2022 and will never forget it!

3.The Truman Show (1998)

If you're learning English, “The Truman Show” is a movie you should definitely check out. 

You’ll see a guy named Truman, played by Jim Carrey, who discovers that his whole life is actually a TV show. Everyone around him is acting and nothing is real.

How would you react if you found out your best friend has been following a script? I’d be devastated! 

The story is interesting and funny (the best Jim Carrey from the 90s is the main character – how could this movie not be funny?!). 

It’s a thought-provoking movie too as it delves into the ethical implications of manipulating someone's life for entertainment.

“The Truman Show” was released in 1998 but the theme is still very much relevant today. There’s definitely a lot that this movie will make you think about.

But what about the language? Since it all revolves around Truman's life being broadcasted on TV, you’ll get exposed to a lot of everyday expressions and hear people talking like they would in real life. 

That's super helpful for expanding your colloquial English.

4.Big Fish (2003)

“Big Fish” is a movie by Tim Burton, a renowned film director in the US. 

Picture this: there's a guy named Will, played by Ewan McGregor, who goes to see his dying father, Edward. The storyline unfolds as Will grapples with his father's wild and unbelievable stories about his life.

The cool thing for you as a learner is that this movie is narrated. You’ll hear Edward talking about his adventures in a slow and clear way. This can give you a break from speedy conversations. 

Just a heads up, though: Edward has a bit of a different accent because he's from Alabama in the southern U.S. It might sound a bit strange at first, but don't worry – you'll get used to it as you watch.

5. Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

In this film, you’ll follow Harold Crick, played by Will Ferrell. Harold is just a regular tax man with a pretty ordinary life. But one day, he starts hearing a voice. Not just any voice – it's a voice narrating every little thing he does. 

Imagine someone narrating your morning routine. How annoying would that be? Incredibly annoying if you’re a person like my partner: she hates people in the morning!

Like “Big Fish”, the cool part for you as a learner is that when Emma Thompson, the narrator, talks about Harold's actions, she speaks slowly and clearly. 

This is like a helpful English lesson within the movie as you can associate the language of the narrator with the actions of the actor.

If you're up for a quirky and interesting story that also helps you with your English, “Stranger Than Fiction” is definitely the way to go.

6. Cast Away (2006)

In “Cast Away”, Tom Hanks plays Chuck Noland, a guy who works for FedEx and travels the world. Chuck's life takes a dramatic turn when his plane crashes somewhere in the South Pacific.

Don’t worry, Chuck doesn’t die. But he finds himself on this deserted island. 

“Who’s he going to talk to? Is this a silent film?” you may wonder.

It’s not. Chuck has a talking buddy: his name is Wilson. The problem, however, is that Wilson can’t talk. Not because he has some sort of speech problems but because he doesn’t have a mouth. Wilson is a volleyball.

Can you guess why this is an awesome movie for you as a learner? For a big chunk of the movie, you’ll only hear Chuck talking to himself (okay, and to Wilson too). So there’s no fast-talking conversation between different people. You’ll only hear one man speaking. 

It’s like listening to a monologue.  This can help you adjust to the accent of the main character so you might be able to understand more and more as you go along with the story. 

Enjoy the simplicity!

7. Fight Club (1999)

This is a cult movie. It’s a dark and thought-provoking exploration of modern consumerism and society. 

The main character is played by Edward Norton. He's the average American citizen who’s drowning in the monotony of daily life. He’s also the nameless narrator in the movie.

Then you have the handsome Brad Pitt from the late 90s, who plays Tyler Durden. Tyler isn’t your typical buddy though; he's a man that’s got some rebellious ideas and a keen interest in creating chaos.

Together, Tyler and Edward create an underground club where men meet up to punch each other. Not your usual weekend pastime, I guess. 

Some people (me) are into stories and language learning , some others like less intellectual activities – that’s the beauty of living in the world of humans.

Anyway, this secret club becomes a space where men challenge the rules of society. The club has a clear rule and you may know what this is already as it became a famous catchphrase. 

It goes like this: “The first rule of Fight Club is: you do not talk about Fight Club.” (I just hope Tyler doesn’t mind me blogging about it.)

Although this is a challenging film as it contains slang and colloquial expressions (it all takes place in an urban setting), this is another great movie for you as the narrator talks to you directly. 

And if you read the book “Fight Club” is based on, you may enjoy the story even more. Whether you decide to watch this film or not, please don’t punch anyone. 

Be an Olly, not a Tyler.

8. Stand By Me (1986)

This is a timeless film based on Stephen King's novella “The Body.”

The story takes place in the summer of 1959 and revolves around four young American friends – Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern. They go on a mission to find the body of a local boy who went missing. 

Will they find him? I can’t tell you.

This is a good movie if you’re learning English because the events are narrated by Gordie. You won’t hear the voice of a young boy though. Gordie narrates the story from his adult perspective so this can give you a break from listening to dialogue all the time. 

“Stand By Me” is another great choice for a movie if you want to improve your English.

9. Braveheart (1995)

Freeeeeeeeeeeeedooooom!  Albaaaa gu bràààààààààààth!

Oh man, I had to stop writing this post to watch the motivational speech William Wallace gave to his men before the battle against the English army.

“Braveheart” is one of my all-time favourites. It tells the story of William Wallace, a quiet Scotsman who wants to live a peaceful life in his little village among the hills of medieval Scotland. William wouldn’t hurt a fly.

So why does he turn into a furious bloodthirsty rebel fighting against the English for freedom? I won’t spoil it for you. You’ll have to find out by yourself!

“Braveheart” is great if you’d like to expose yourself to the Scottish accent, one that even some native speakers of English find hard to understand. 

The story is set in the Great Britain of medieval times so you’ll also get plenty of Queen-like British pronunciation and expressions. Forget about modern suburban British slang !

Five Oscars, a great story and an even greater Mel Gibson. 

Two words: watch it.

10. The King's Speech (2010)

I remember seeing this in a cinema as soon as it came out. 

This is a historical drama set in the 1930s that talks about the inspiring true story of Prince Albert. 

Prince Albert is about to become king. But he has a problem: he suffers from a severe speech impediment.

I’ve never been a king but I wouldn’t want to be in such a high position of authority and not be able to speak clearly, naturally and fluently. I’m sure you wouldn’t either.

So what does Albert do? He seeks the help of an unorthodox speech therapist, Lionel Logue.

Don’t be too sorry for the king though because his stammer is great news for you! You’ll get to see a movie where the main character doesn’t speak at the speed of light! 

The film also offers you a glimpse into the historical and cultural context of 20th-century Britain and exposes you to some formal language typical of the Royals. 

And it’s a movie I’d personally rewatch too.

11. Home Alone (1990)

“Home Alone” has become a holiday classic to watch over and over during the Christmas period.

The movie is about 8-year-old Kevin McCallister, who accidentally gets left behind when his family goes on vacation for Christmas. 

Kevin doesn’t mind though. In fact, he’s over the moon he hasn’t got his family members around the house anymore! He’s now free and feels proud for having made his family disappear. 

But then things change when Kevin has to defend his house against burglars Harry and Marv.

This is a great movie for learners of English for two reasons.

• Reason 1: the plot is simple. You don’t need to get your head around any intricate sequences of events.
• Reason 2: Most of the time you’ll see only Kevin talking. He’s an 8-year-old so the language he uses is fairly straightforward.

I watch “Home Alone” at least once a year. This is a movie you simply can’t miss, especially at Christmas time!

12. Inside Out (2015)

“Inside Out” is the story of Riley, an 11-year-old girl, who goes through major life changes when her family moves to a new city. 

Most of the story takes place inside Riley’s mind, where Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust live.

These five “people” living in her head are her emotions. Anger is the red one. Joy is yellow and she’s as bright as the sun. Sadness is blue and always depressed. Fear is purple and he’s the one who prevents Riley from getting into trouble.

And then you have Disgust. She’s green and was born when Riley ate Broccoli for the first time. Each emotion influences Riley’s actions and memories.

Isn’t this intriguing already?

“Inside Out” is truly a clever animated movie that will make you think about the nature of human psychology.

It’s also a great film for improving your English as the characters speak with a clear and expressive American accent.

And because the dialogue is cleverly written to reflect the distinct personalities of each emotion, you’ll get a lot of opportunities to notice how different intonation patterns are used in English .

Want to sound angry? Listen closely to how Anger speaks. Want to sound sad? Tune in to Sadness’ speech and mimic her accent.

I’m sure you’ll love “Inside Out” no matter how old you are. 

13. The Hole (2001)

“The Hole” is a psychological thriller that centres around four teenagers – Liz, Mike, Geoff, and Martyn – who decide to spend a weekend exploring an abandoned underground bunker.

What a group of naughty teens. They think nothing bad can happen to them. And nothing indeed happens – until they get trapped inside the bunker.

Spoiler alert: you’ll see disgusting scenes and some of them can be quite disturbing.  So this isn’t a movie for you if you’re not into this kind of film experience. 

The film also contains scenes of sex, nudity, violence, gore, and profanity. This is a movie for adults only!

So why would such content make a great movie for learners then? 

Like many other films I discussed in this post, the plot is simple and most of the story takes place in a bunker. Plus, you only have a bunch of characters to listen to. All this makes it easier for you to understand.

Let me warn you one more time though: this is not a movie for kids! 

14. The Cube (1997)

This is a science fiction horror film. In the opening scene, you’ll see a group of five strangers awakening to find themselves trapped in a mysterious cube-shaped room. 

Each person has a skill. Quentin is a police officer, Holloway is a doctor, Worth is an architect, Leaven is a math student and Rennes is an escape artist.

They soon discover that each room has doors on its six faces and each door leads to other cube-shaped rooms. 

But here’s what’s interesting: some of these rooms contain lethal traps. So be ready to see some gory scenes!

This is a relatively easy movie to watch as you have few characters to listen to and only one location (the cube). You’ll also get plenty of breaks from listening as the movie contains many scenes of suspense. 

15. Jumanji (1995)

“Jumanji” is a light adventure comedy movie filled with action that you might have already seen in your first language. This is one of my favourites too, not least because the great Robbie Williams is in it. 

The film tells the story of two siblings, Judy and Peter, who discover a magical board game in the attic of their new house. The board game is called Jumanji and brings its dangers, past players and wild creatures into the real world.

The dialogue is fairly accessible if you’re an intermediate learner so I think you’ll be able to enjoy it.

16. Titanic (1997)

Okay, who hasn’t seen this? We all know the story of the unsinkable ship that sank in 1912.

Titanic is a movie that can really help you get exposed to lots of dialogue. You may learn some formal expressions from the first-class passengers and some more colloquial language from the third-class travellers. 

It’s 3-hour long so it might be tiring to watch if you’re an intermediate learner. But I would recommend it anyway, especially if you’ve already seen it in your first language.

17. The Invention of Lying (2009)

Imagine a world where everyone tells the truth and lies don’t exist. If your colleagues think you’re a terrible human being, they won’t lie to you – they’ll tell you! How weird would such a world be?

In “The Invention of Lying”, Mark Bellison, played by the hilarious Ricky Gervais, lives in the most honest world you could ever imagine. But he then discovers how lying can change everything.

This is a great and original comedy movie that will help you expand your repertoire of conversational English expressions because most of the conversations take place in informal settings.

You’ll also get exposed to a mix of British and American accents.

Watch out for Riky’s distinctive glottal stop though. That could be tricky to understand. I’m not lying!

18. The Shining (1980)

A cult, a masterpiece, a blockbuster movie, a work of art, a gem – I don’t know what else to say. This is a fantastic horror movie for learners of English.

“The Shining” is story of a family – Jack, Wendy, and their son Danny – who go to an empty and isolated hotel in the mountains during winter. 

Jack is a writer struggling with writer’s block. He gets a job as the caretaker, hoping to use the quiet time to write his novel. 

Danny, Jack and Wendy’s son, has a special power called “the shining” that makes him have scary visions. Plus, the hotel has some spooky things going on. That’s enough to make you shiver. 

But there’s more. As the winter goes on, Jack starts acting really strange and you’ll soon discover that the hotel has a creepy history that affects the whole family. 

Like many other movies I discussed in this post, The Shining follows the story of few characters, the plot is simple and there’s not a lot of dialogue (but many creepy scenes!).

This is a perfect combination of ingredients that will make the movie a suitable for you as an English language learner.

And, in my opinion, you’ll see the best Jack Nicholson acting performance.

19. Robin Hood (1973)

This is a classic animated film by Walt Disney that you can watch and enjoy with your family.

The movie tells the timeless tale of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men in the animal kingdom. They have one mission: standing up against the greedy Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham. 

To be honest, “Robin Hood” isn’t an easy one to understand if you’re an intermediate learner.

But I decided to include it in this list because Robin Hood is a folk hero from the Middle Ages in England. So watching this movie can help you connect with English culture and literature. 

Also, the characters speak a variety of British accents so you can get exposed to the diversity of English pronunciation.

Check the trailer and see how challenging this movie is for you.

20. The Terminator (1984)

If you say you’ve never seen this movie, sorry but…I don’t believe you!

The Terminator is a story about a robot sent from the future, played by the one and only Arnold Schwarzenegger, to kill (or “terminate” I should say) a woman named Sarah. 

But, surprise! A warrior from the future, Kyle, comes to the present to keep Sarah safe. 

There’s lots of action and shooting and running away in this movie – probably more action than dialogue, so this can help you appreciate the story more.

Also, Arnold’s Teutonic accent makes him easy to understand. (Arnold is a non-native speaker of English – did you know that?)

The Best Movies For English Learners

So, as you can see from this list of best movies for English learners, there’s one for every taste. 

If you can’t enjoy the movie because it’s too hard for you to understand, I suggest that you find something more suitable for your level. Check out the best TV shows to learn English for ideas. Or follow the rules of StoryLearning and read short stories in English instead.

Otherwise, here are some ways to increase your understanding:

• Watch the same scene more than once.
• Watch the movie with subtitles first and then rewatch them without subtitles.
• Watch only one minute of the movie and try to understand as much as you can.
• Check out Cara’s YouTube channel !

Whatever you do, don’t feel discouraged, and keep on exposing your brain to English.

More importantly, keep learning while having fun!

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How to Write a Movie Review for College

Updated 13 Jun 2024

If you wish to know how to write a movie review, then you are on the right page. A movie review forms part of essays college students writes. While many cinema-loving students find it interesting, others don’t. A film review does not mean writing what happened in a film; instead, it involves doing a critical assessment of the same. Also, you can proof your paper instantly with Edubirdie plagiarism tool .

What is a movie review? A movie review is a detailed analysis of a film or a documentary. It involves analysis, research, and reporting the writer’s views in a structured way. The writer assumes a position of educating readers whether they have watched the film or not. In fact, many people read movie reviews to decide whether they want to see a film or not.

A film review tests students' critical thinking and reporting skills. It also examines their dexterity in writing in a logical, concise, lucid, and creative manner. This post shall teach you to craft the best film review in your class without being redundant in writing , and you can find many interesting tips on how to write a movie review for college and movie reviews examples.

How to Write a Movie Review Like a Professional Critic

Writing a movie review though challenging for some students can be quite easy. What you should know is that the format of presenting a review are the same which makes it an interesting task. Here we offer a step-by-step process of how to write a good film review or how to write an introduction for a movie review that any student can follow:

• Watch the movie: Before you can review any film, you must watch it. You cannot review a motion picture you have not watched. Therefore, for success watch the film at least twice. Note: do not watch it like you’re a regular moviegoer or movie enthusiast. Be focused and conscious through the film. Take notes if necessary.

You will need to take notes hence have a notebook and pen handy. Record all events and characters (major and minor). Try to be meticulous do not overlook anything.

• Research the movie: Watching the film should give you the overview and feel of the movie. With that, it should be easy and exciting to research the movie. The research augments what you have watched in the movie. In your research, you should find out who the filmmaker is, what prompted the making of the movie, the characterization, historical events the lead to the film, location, plot and so on.

If you are aware of the details behind the movie, the movie will be more understandable and engaging. Note also that if you do not understand the movie you cannot move to the next step which involves analysis. Try not to proceed to the next step unless you vividly understand the movie. If it entails watching it again until you fully get it, do it. The following should form part of your findings regarding the film:

• Title and year
• Names of the lead actors
• Name of the director
• Title of the book (if based on a book)
• Draft the review outline: Draft an outline with which you will write the review. The overview will help you organize your review concisely and logically. The outline is more like the skeletal frame on which the whole study will stand. A good draft will yield a perfect report, and the reverse is also true.

An outline enhances the quality of the film review, and it is essential you have your outline before you start writing. A sample outline looks like this:

1. Introduction

• Date released
• Background info

2. Summary of the story

3. Analysis of the plot elements (read also: guide about a critical analysis for movies)

4. Creative elements

5. Opinions (add examples to back up your claims)

• Camera techniques
• Special effects and so on

6. Conclusion

• Analyze the movie: After fully understanding the movie, you can start its analysis. Critically evaluate the film from the beginning to the end, noting every detail. While analyzing, if you observed any confusing part, re-watch to grasp the idea portrayed there fully. After you fully understand it, then you are set to write the movie review. To write a decent analysis, you need to know how to write a film critique.
• Augment Your Review with Examples : While watching the movie, your observations should be supported with examples, i.e., mention scenes the event took place. If the plot is faulty, mention it but state examples to support that claim. You can also mention poorly developed characters evident in the movie and others. Everything you observed in the film must be noted.

Examples of notables include locations, faulty or beautiful dialogues, quotes that appeal to you, poorly made speeches, bloopers, editing errors and so on. Do take note that it is not enough to make general statements about how awesome or awful the movie is, you must support your claim with evidence in the film. That is why it is called a movie review and not opinion sampling interview about the movie.

• Comment on the originality of the movie: Finally mention the uniqueness of the film which you noticed in the one you’ve watched. But even if the movie happens to be a standard feature with conventional approaches, you can still mention this as well. A regular film is still a film.
• Write Your Review: With all the fact gathered above, you can now use the outline to write your film review. Make every part easy and enjoyable to read. Importantly, make the introduction engaging and captivating. You should go for a grand opening that will grab the attention of any reader. A good opening keeps the reader on the article.

Let us assume your introduction is watertight and engaging; any sloppy body will lose your reader. Hence, make the body informative and engaging. The review aims to reveal as much information as possible. Therefore, do your best to give all the details in the film to the reader. Engage your analytic mind.

Another essential part of the review is the closing or conclusion. Here you give your view about the movie with evidence revealed in the body. Connect the conclusion with the introduction creatively.

• Edit Your Final Draft: After writing your first version of the review, you can re-write the final one after editing. Also, you should check the final draft for spelling errors, grammar mistakes, and so on. Ensure sentences connects logically to each other and watch the format used. Make a final comparison of your work with the requirement by your professor or lecturer.

With the help of free word counter check the number of words required and cut them if more than needed but if not, add relevant information to make them up. Do not add irrelevant details for the sake of space. Ensure your final submitted draft is well edited, polished, plagiarism-free and presented in the recommended format or style.

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive a movie review sample crafted to your needs.

Tips to Follow While Writing a Movie Review

Since a movie review essay requires dedication and time investment, you might want to know the special tips to get you through the assignment seamlessly. Do recall that perfect conclusion of this assignment will add to your grades, hence the need to take it seriously. If you wish to know How to write a movie critique easily, then this section will tell you that.

The useful tips you should consider are as follows:

• Watch the film at least two times
• If you have seen it before, make sure you re-watch it for the assignment.
• Watch the movie not as a moviegoer but with an analytic mindset of a professional reviewer
• Pay attention to details
• Take notes as you watch
• Don’t be in a rush - take your time, but be aware of the deadline
• Do not write out of the contest of your coursework
• Follow the requirements of your professor
• Use an outline to organize your work
• Start working on the body of your film review first and the introduction next
• Write an engaging introduction and a powerful closing.
• Never forget to edit your work.

Read also: How to write an editorial Essay: Useful Tips for Those Who Want To Perfect Their Skill 

Elements of a Professional Movie Review

One similar thing about these reviews is that they all should contain the same elements regardless of the genre. The elements of a movie review provide the structure on which you will base the analysis. A proper movie review format comprises the following components:

• The Title: It’s not enough that the movie title appears on the headline, it must appear in the review too. Mention it in the text and feature it in the introductory paragraph; there is no harm in doing that.
• The Storyline (Plot): The motion picture review itself refers to the summary of the movie. Present it in a concise way for people who are yet to watch it. When you are beginning to write a movie review, never have the mindset that your professor or any would-be reader has watched the movie. Therefore, never leave important points or events out. Your job is to elucidate the movie clearly to the reader: mention the faults observed, and the filmmaker’s brilliant points or downers.
• Filmmaker: What is a movie analysis without the filmmaker? Your review must feature him or her. Therefore, dedicate a paragraph to him, write about the kind of personality he or she is. Reveal the filmmaker's political stance (if relevant), background, the controversial life of the person (if he is one), etc. You can also use the opportunity to talk about other movies the director has worked on before now, and then connect it with the one under review.
• Significance to your class: Relate the content of the film or documentary to your course topic. Check its importance for historical accuracy. If the film is for history class, discuss any over-dramatization noticed in the act. However, if the film was based on a book you have reviewed in one of your classes, mention the connection between the book and the movie: state variances, comparisons and other elements present in the book that are missing in the film.
• Creative elements: Creative elements make or mar films, that is why filmmakers go out of their ways to add them to their movies. It is your job to state how these elements work in the plot and the film in general. For instance, comment on the effectiveness of the sound effect in enriching the viewing experience of the movie? Talk about the lighting, costume, makeup, colors, camera, etc.
• Actors: The cast carry the movie; without them, there is no movie. Your review should reveal if they acted well or poorly. State if their acting was realistic or not. Do not fail to mention if they have the skills and charisma to portray the role they played. You can also state if they were the right actors to play the role they did. Furthermore, you can suggest actors who could have played certain roles better than those in the film.

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Common Movie Review Mistakes You Should Avoid

After your arduous work of submitting your film report, you might be shocked to learn that your hard work received a query. You may wish to know why, well it could be because you commit any of the following common mistakes:

• Focusing on the wrong thing: Do not shift your focus. You might want to connect the film with some historical events, however, do not give unnecessary analysis or details that are not relevant to the movie under review. For instance, avoid giving the history of motion picture unless the film is about the development of the industry. Try and be focused.
• Alienating yourself from the review: You are the one writing the review, therefore, do not insert yourself in it. The review already has your name and signature on it so adding the possessive pronoun "I" should be discarded. The mistake most student make is writing in the first person, e.g., “I like the movie a lot, I admired the lead character,” and so on. Since the review exposes your understanding, opinions, likes, and dislikes, then it is unnecessary to insert yourself in it.
• Not doing your research: As said earlier, watching the movie is one side of the coin, you need to check out other details. Researching the film is highly critical because it would expound to you all the nitty-gritty details, not in the motion picture.
• Lack of evidence: In writing about a motion picture, you must substantiate any opinion or claim. You need to state your reason for liking, disliking, etc. of the film.
• Avoid irrelevant discussion: Do not start explaining issues not related directly with the motion picture you are analyzing.
• Unstructured review: Never write a movie review without structure, it would reveal you as an unorganized student. Hence structure your review properly by first creating the outline and organize your work.
• Avoid Generalization and be Precise: Never generalize ideas when you write a movie review. Avoid general statements like “a fantastic movie,” “beautiful set,” “excellent acting,” and such like. Support any comment you make with evidence from the film.
• Review lacking substance and analysis: Avoid writing a motion picture review that does not have substance or analysis. A review is a piece of educational literature, therefore, add intelligent analysis to it.

Movie Review Example from Top Writer

Here are a few examples of movie review topics to steer you in the right direction:

• Avatar Movie Review
• Beautiful Woman Movie Review
• Black Panther and its Global Significance
• In Pursuit of Happiness: Lessons to Learn
• iRobot: The Depiction of AI in the Future
• Matrix Movie Review
• Roots and Its Implication on the Life of the Black Men
• The Good, the Bad, the Ugly Movie Review
• The Last Holiday Movie Review and the Lesson of Living Life Too Cautiously
• Titanic Movie Review

Quick & Reliable Writing Help

As you can see, a movie review essay is an interesting paper to write. Recall that the whole point of a movie review is to inform the reader about the film and the ideas behind it. Also, it reflects your unbiased and objective view about the film. Adopt all our tips, and you shall submit a professional-looking report.

However, if you don't care about movies or still have issues coming to terms with all we have explained above, then contact us for help. At Edubirdie, our movie and book review writing service  are poised to help with your assignment and guarantee a high-quality review at an affordable price. With us, you shall learn how to do a movie review that will wow any professor.

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Best Movies to Learn English (Top 20) – Top Picks

Meet  David De’ Ath , founder, editor, and writer at Wonderful World English. With his extensive background as an English teacher, David provides valuable insights and practical tips on ESL for students and teachers alike.

Are you embarking on a journey to enhance your English skills?

Or perhaps you’re a teacher seeking creative ways to assist your students.

Look no further!

Movies are a superb tool for supplementing English language studies.

They offer a dynamic blend of entertainment and education, making learning a language both enjoyable and effective.

In our specially curated list, viewers will discover 20 outstanding films that are ideal for English learners.

From American blockbusters like Forrest Gump to British classics like Harry Potter, each film in this guide is chosen for its language clarity and cultural insights, offering a fun, engaging way to improve English skills, whether a beginner or an advanced learner, diving into this cinematic language journey is a great idea!

Each film has been selected for its clarity and ease of understanding, ensuring viewers can follow along without feeling overwhelmed.

These films provide a vivid glimpse into diverse cultures and accents, adding depth and richness.

They allow us to explore various ways of speaking and living, which is invaluable for developing a well-rounded understanding of English.

Now, prepare your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to immerse yourself in some of the best movies for learning English!

Best Movies to Learn English

Learning English can be enjoyable and effective when combined with the right movies.

This guide ranks some of the best movies for learning English, considering factors such as clarity of dialogue, language complexity, and overall educational value.

We have ranked them in order of the most recommended for English learners.

Let’s jump in!

1. Forrest Gump (1994) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

First up, Forrest Gump is a stellar choice for English beginners, thanks to its straightforward and clear language.

This film can be excellent at teaching English and taking the viewer on a journey through the heart of American history in the 20th century.

As you follow Forrest’s extraordinary life, you’ll pick up the nuances of the English language and gain insights into America’s cultural and historical landscape.

This blend of education and entertainment makes Forrest Gump an invaluable addition to your learning repertoire, offering a delightful and enriching experience beyond traditional language learning methods.

2. Harry Potter Series – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Next, we can dive into the enchanting world of the Harry Potter series, a perfect choice for English learners across all age groups.

These films are about magic and adventures and are a treasure trove of rich vocabulary and engaging storytelling.

As viewers navigate through the spellbinding corridors of Hogwarts and the mystical alleys of Diagon Alley, you’re also journeying through a diverse range of English expressions and phrases.

The captivating plotlines and magical universe add an extra layer of fascination, making the learning process not just educational but thoroughly enjoyable.

Whether you’re a young learner or simply young at heart, the Harry Potter series promises a magical and effective way to enhance your English skills.

3. The King’s Speech (2010) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The King’s Speech is an exceptional film for those looking to delve into the nuances of British English and its array of accents.

This movie transcends being just a language learning tool; it’s a poignant tale of determination and courage.

As you listen to the articulate dialogue and watch the struggle and triumph of King George VI, you gain not only an understanding of the refined variations of British speech but also an inspiring message about overcoming personal challenges.

This blend of linguistic education and a heartening narrative makes The King’s Speech a captivating and valuable addition to anyone’s English learning journey.

4. Pride and Prejudice (2005) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pride and Prejudice is a gem for admirers of classic literature and offers a splendid window into the world of historical British English.

This film is a romantic drama and a linguistic journey back in time.

The elegantly crafted dialogues are a feast for the ears, exposing learners to the refined and articulate English of the past.

As you immerse yourself in the captivating story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, you not only enjoy the rich tapestry of 19th-century English society but also enhance your understanding and appreciation of the English language in its most classic form.

This movie is ideal for those who wish to combine their love for literature with the desire to improve their language skills.

5. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Shawshank Redemption is an outstanding film for those aiming to deepen their grasp of American English and its idiomatic expressions.

This movie offers a gripping storyline and a journey into the heart of American dialogue and culture.

As you follow the compelling tale of Andy Dufresne and his life in Shawshank prison, you’ll encounter a rich array of American English expressions and slang, making it a practical and immersive learning experience.

The powerful narrative is captivating and provides profound insights into themes of hope and resilience.

This combination of linguistic learning and an emotionally enlightening story makes The Shawshank Redemption an invaluable resource for English learners seeking both language skills and cinematic excellence.

Podcasts can also be very impactful in English language learning.

For a list of the BEST podcasts for ESL learners, check out the guide below!

Related Article: Best Podcasts to Learn the English Language in 2024 (Top 10)

6. Dead Poets Society (1989) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dead Poets Society stands out as a remarkable film for intermediate English learners, blending articulate English with a profoundly inspiring narrative.

This movie is more than just a language lesson; it’s a powerful exploration of passion, individuality, and the power of words.

As you follow the journey of a group of students inspired by their charismatic English teacher, Mr. Keating, you are exposed to beautifully crafted English dialogue and powerful speeches that enhance your language comprehension and leave a lasting impression.

The film’s engaging plot and eloquent language make it an ideal choice for those looking to improve their English while being moved and motivated by a timeless story of inspiration and courage.

7. Little Miss Sunshine (2006) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Little Miss Sunshine is a charming and insightful choice for learners keen on mastering conversational American English.

This film shines with its natural dialogues that reflect everyday language, making it an excellent tool for understanding how English is spoken in real-life scenarios.

Beyond its linguistic merits, the movie is a delightful blend of family dynamics and heartwarming storytelling.

As you embark on the quirky road trip with the Hoover family, you not only pick up the nuances of casual American speech but also get immersed in a story that’s both relatable and uplifting.

This combination of authentic dialogue and a touching narrative makes Little Miss Sunshine a perfect film for those looking to learn English in an enjoyable and emotionally engaging context.

8. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Pursuit of Happyness is an excellent film for learners looking to immerse themselves in everyday conversational English.

This movie vividly portrays contemporary American life, offering a realistic and relatable context for language learning.

As you follow the inspiring journey of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman turned successful entrepreneur, you gain insights into the American dream and learn how English is used in everyday situations, from professional interactions to personal challenges.

The film’s blend of authentic dialogue and a compelling, heartening storyline makes it an ideal educational tool for those who want to understand and speak English as it is used in real-world settings.

9. Julie & Julia (2009) – ⭐⭐⭐

Julie & Julia is a delightful film that offers a unique glimpse into American culture and the nuances of day-to-day English.

This contemporary story is a journey into the heart of everyday language in the United States.

As we follow the parallel stories of Julie Powell, a budding New York blogger, and Julia Child, the renowned chef, we are treated to various English expressions and cultural references that are engaging and educational.

The film’s charming narrative and relatable characters make it an appealing choice for English learners who want to understand and engage with the language in a modern and captivating context.

10. A Beautiful Mind (2001) – ⭐⭐⭐

A Beautiful Mind is an exceptional film for advanced English learners, artfully combining clear dialogue with a captivating storyline.

This movie goes beyond the typical language lesson, deeply diving into complex English expressions and advanced vocabulary.

As you follow the brilliant but troubled life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics, you’ll be exposed to various academic and intellectual dialogues.

This enhances your comprehension and vocabulary and engages you in a profound narrative that explores themes of love, resilience, and the human spirit.

Ideal for those who seek to challenge their English proficiency, A Beautiful Mind provides both a linguistic workout and a deeply moving cinematic experience.

11. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) – ⭐⭐⭐

The Grand Budapest Hotel is a visually striking masterpiece, perfect for intermediate English learners.

This film stands out with its unique and whimsical storytelling, providing a delightful backdrop for language learning.

As you immerse yourself in the colorful and meticulously crafted world of the Grand Budapest Hotel, you encounter a variety of English styles and dialogues, from the eloquent to the quirky.

This range of language, set against the film’s enchanting aesthetic and eccentric characters, makes it an engaging way to enhance your English listening skills.

The movie’s blend of humor, drama, and adventure offers a refreshing and enjoyable approach to learning English.

It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of visual artistry and English exploration.

Movies won’t be the same without music.

Singing can be another excellent way to learn and recall new language.

For a list of the BEST songs to help ESL learners, click the link below!

Related Article: Best English Songs to Sing – Complete Guide

12. Love Actually (2003) – ⭐⭐⭐

Love Actually is a charming British romantic comedy that is an excellent resource for those looking to learn everyday English and familiarize themselves with various accents.

Set in a multicultural environment, the film showcases the diversity of English language and speech.

As you navigate through the intertwined love stories of the movie’s rich tapestry of characters, you’ll encounter a range of British accents and colloquial expressions.

This exposure is invaluable for learners who wish to understand English’s subtleties and variations in different contexts.

The film’s engaging plot and heartwarming narrative make it an educational tool and a delightful cinematic experience.

13. The Social Network (2010) – ⭐⭐⭐

The Social Network is an excellent film for those interested in contemporary English, offering a deep dive into modern American culture and language.

This movie isn’t just about founding a major social media platform; it’s a window into the dynamic and fast-paced world of technology and entrepreneurship in the United States.

The dialogue is sharp, current, and filled with the jargon and expressions relevant to today’s English speakers.

As you follow this gripping story of innovation and conflict, you’ll gain an understanding of the nuances of modern American English, making it an ideal choice for learners keen on keeping up with the evolving nature of the language.

The film’s blend of a compelling narrative and educational value makes it a standout choice for improving your English skills while engaging with a crucial piece of modern history.

14. Toy Story Series – ⭐⭐⭐

The Toy Story series is a fantastic choice for English learners of all ages, combining clear dialogue with captivating storytelling.

These animated classics do more than entertain; they offer a wholesome language-learning experience.

The dialogue in these movies is straightforward yet rich, making it easy for learners to follow along and pick up new vocabulary and phrases.

As we journey with Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the toy gang, we witness a story unfold and become immersed in an engaging and playful world where English is presented in a fun and accessible manner.

The series’ mix of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments makes it an ideal educational tool for anyone learning English enjoyably and memorably.

Games can be excellent tools in helping boost English skills while having fun.

Check out the guide below for a list of the BEST games to learn English:

Related Article: Best Games to Learn English: Ultimate Guide

15. Finding Nemo (2003) – ⭐⭐⭐

Finding Nemo is an excellent choice for beginners in English, offering a delightful animated adventure with clear and simple dialogue.

This movie is a wonderful starting point for learners of all ages, providing an easy-to-understand experience.

As you follow the heartwarming journey of Marlin and Dory in their quest to find Nemo, you’ll be exposed to basic English vocabulary and sentence structures, making it a comfortable and engaging way to start your language learning journey.

The film’s vibrant animation, memorable characters, and humorous plot not only keep you entertained but also help reinforce the language lessons, making Finding Nemo a perfect mix of education and entertainment for English learners.

16. The Devil Wears Prada (2006) – ⭐⭐⭐

The Devil Wears Prada is an outstanding film for learners looking to acquaint themselves with conversational English in a professional setting, all set against the backdrop of the glamorous fashion industry.

This movie provides a unique opportunity to hear and understand the dynamics of workplace communication, making it particularly useful for those interested in business English.

As you follow the journey of Andy Sachs in the high-stakes world of fashion, you’ll encounter a variety of language styles, from formal business interactions to casual workplace banter.

The film’s engaging storyline, combined with the allure of the fashion world, offers an appealing and practical context for learning English, making it a perfect choice for those who want to combine language improvement with a peek into the stylish and fast-paced world of fashion.

17. Ratatouille (2007) – ⭐⭐⭐

Ratatouille is a delightful animated film ideal for English learners of all ages, thanks to its clear and entertaining dialogue.

This charming movie brings more than just a culinary adventure; it’s a feast of easy-to-understand English language lessons.

As you follow Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking, on his journey in the world of French cuisine, you’ll be exposed to clear and engaging English speech, making it an excellent tool for language learners.

The film’s vibrant animation, humorous scenes, and heartwarming story make the learning process enjoyable and help reinforce English language skills in a fun and memorable way.

Ratatouille is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking to learn English through an enjoyable, family-friendly cinematic experience.

18. The Wizard of Oz (1939) – ⭐⭐⭐

The Wizard of Oz is a classic film renowned for its simple and timeless language, making it an excellent choice for English learners.

This iconic movie transcends generations and offers a charming and accessible way to understand and engage with the English language.

As we embark on Dorothy’s magical journey to the land of Oz, we encounter straightforward language yet rich in idiomatic expressions and cultural references.

This blend of simplicity and classic storytelling not only makes the learning process easier for beginners but also provides a delightful glimpse into the history of American cinema and language.

The Wizard of Oz is a perfect example of how learning English can be both enjoyable and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

19. Slumdog Millionaire (2008) – ⭐⭐⭐

Slumdog Millionaire is an exceptional film for those interested in learning English within a multicultural context, offering a unique blend of English and Hindi.

This movie provides an immersive experience into the diverse linguistic landscape of India, where English is interwoven with local languages.

As you follow the gripping story of Jamal Malik from the slums of Mumbai to the heights of a national game show, you’ll not only be exposed to various English accents and phrases but also get a taste of Hindi.

This combination offers a rich, realistic context for learning English, making it particularly suitable for learners who wish to understand the dynamics of language in a culturally diverse environment.

Slumdog Millionaire is more than just a movie; it’s a linguistic journey through the vibrant and colorful tapestry of Indian society.

20. The Imitation Game (2014) – ⭐⭐⭐

The Imitation Game is an excellent film for advanced English learners, skillfully mixing British English with a rich historical context.

This movie offers more than just linguistic learning; it’s a deep dive into an important part of history through the lens of language.

As you follow the story of Alan Turing and his team cracking the Enigma code during World War II, you’ll be exposed to a range of British accents and terminologies, enhancing your understanding of the language in a historical and cultural setting.

The film’s blend of educational content and entertainment makes it a captivating choice for learners who wish to refine their English skills while engaging with a significant and compelling narrative.

The Imitation Game stands out as a valuable resource for those seeking to improve their language proficiency in a context that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.

The 20 films featured in this guide offer great sources of entertainment and valuable tools in your journey to improve your English skills.

This diverse collection, ranging from animated classics to gripping historical dramas, offers something for learners at every level.

Embracing these films as part of your learning process exemplifies the importance of immersion in language acquisition.

Cinema provides a rich, engaging, and often emotionally resonant context for language learning, making it one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to enhance your English proficiency.

So, as you delve into these cinematic experiences, remember that each movie is a step forward in your language-learning adventure, blending the joy of watching with the benefits of learning.

We hope you find value in this guide.

Have a wonderful day!

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Film&Movie Review Examples and Samples

Reviewing films can seem fun, but it actually takes discipline to explain all the elements of a film and to express your opinion succinctly. Check out our film review samples to gain a better understanding of how to write one yourself.

How to Write a Movie Review: A Comprehensive Guide

Writing a movie review is an engaging process that combines film criticism, analysis, and personal opinion to create an informative and thought-provoking piece. A well-crafted review not only serves as a helpful guide for potential viewers but also deepens our understanding of the cinematic experience. In this article, we will explore the essentials of review writing, focusing on crucial elements such as plot summary, thesis, opinion, characters, cinematography, and more.

Start with a Plot Summary

Begin your movie review with a brief synopsis, offering an overview of the film’s storyline. This recap should be concise and engaging, giving readers a general idea of the movie’s premise without revealing too much. For a more structured approach, consider using an AI literature review generator to help you summarize key points efficiently. Remember that your summary sets the stage for the critique and analysis that follow.

Develop a Thesis

Your thesis is the central idea or argument that you will explore in your movie review. This main point should be clear and focused, serving as the backbone of your critique. Consider what themes or aspects of the film stood out to you, and build your thesis around these observations.

Express Your Opinion

A significant aspect of writing a movie review is sharing your personal viewpoint or perspective. Offer your judgment on the film’s strengths and weaknesses, providing specific examples from the movie to support your appraisal. Be honest and thoughtful in your assessment, considering both your own preferences and the film’s intended audience.

Analyze the Characters

Discuss the film’s characters, examining their roles, personas, and the actors’ performances. Consider how the cast contributes to the overall narrative and whether their portrayals are convincing and memorable. Analyze the characters’ development throughout the movie, as well as the relationships between them.

Examine the Cinematography

Cinematography plays a crucial role in a film’s visual style and storytelling. Delve into the camera work, lighting, photography, and framing, evaluating how these elements enhance or detract from the movie’s overall impact. Consider how the cinematography supports the film’s themes and emotions.

Conduct a Thorough Analysis

A comprehensive movie review requires a detailed examination of various aspects of the film. Study the director’s choices, the music and sound design, and the technical elements such as craftsmanship and artistry. This thorough scrutiny will help you provide a well-rounded critique that captures the essence of the movie.

Discuss the Director’s Role

The director is the creative force behind a film, responsible for shaping its vision and execution. Analyze the director’s choices, considering their impact on the film’s storytelling, pacing, and overall atmosphere. Reflect on the director’s previous work, if applicable, and how this film fits into their oeuvre.

Evaluate Music and Sound

Music and sound play an essential role in creating a film’s mood and atmosphere. Examine the soundtrack, score, and audio design, considering how these elements contribute to the movie’s overall experience. Discuss the effectiveness of the composition, melody, and soundscapes in enhancing the narrative.

Assess Technical Aspects 

Review the technical aspects of the film, such as the expertise and proficiency of the crew, the quality of the special effects, and the overall production value. Analyze how these elements contribute to the film’s success or shortcomings, and whether they support the movie’s themes and narrative.

Evaluate the Acting 

Analyze the actors’ performances, considering their delivery, expression, and interpretation of their roles. Discuss whether the acting feels authentic and engaging, and how it contributes to the film’s overall impact. Pay attention to standout performances or any instances where the acting may have detracted from the movie’s overall quality.

In summary, writing a movie review involves a careful balance of plot summary, thesis development, opinion sharing, and thorough analysis of various aspects of the film, including characters, cinematography, directorial choices, music and sound, and technical elements. By considering all these factors and incorporating the appropriate keyword density and LSI keywords organically throughout your review, you can create an engaging, informative, and well-rounded critique that will appeal to readers and enhance their appreciation for the film. Remember to be honest and thoughtful in your assessment, and most importantly, enjoy the process of delving into the world of cinema.

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How to Write a Movie Review: 10 Essential Tips

As long as there have been films, there have been film critics. Starting with the early days of cinema, where reviews appeared in newspapers and magazines as brief, descriptive pieces, as filmmaking evolved as an art form, so did the role of the critic. James Agee, André Bazin, and Pauline Kael shaped the discourse around cinema, and today, famous film critics like the iconic Roger Ebert , The New York Times’s A.O. Scott , and The New York Times’s Manohla Dargis continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

With the rise of the internet, film criticism now encompasses a wide range of voices and perspectives from around the globe. Sites like Letterboxd make it possible for anyone to write short-form reviews on film. Even stars like The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri have accounts and share opinions on the latest box-office hits.

How to Write a Movie Review

Today, contemporary YouTube and TikTok critics such as Red Letter Media , deepfocuslens , and DoMo Draper don’t just write film reviews, they shoot videos and skits. Through their creative formats, they offer refreshing and unique perspectives while building communities of diehard film and television enthusiasts. Whether you choose to write reviews for your own blog, other websites, or social media channels, by learning how to write a movie review, any aspiring filmmaker can start to watch films intentionally. 

@domodraperr Replying to @xsindeviltriggerx I’ll get right on that, Sir!🫡 #comments #movies #film #satire #fyp #mulan #disney ♬ I’ll Make a Man Out of You (feat. Black Gryph0n) – Cover – Samuel Kim

TikTok film critic “DoMo Draper” provides commentary on new and old films, often calling out racism, social injustice, misogyny, and prejudice.

While there’s no perfect approach to writing a review, there are best practices that every aspiring reviewer should consider.

Here are ten tips on writing a compelling piece.

1. Watch the film at least once.

For new reviewers, it’s impossible to capture everything after one viewing. Watching the film first, then watching to take notes, is an easy way to improve the quality of your final review. This will also make it easy to recall in-the-moment thoughts and reactions.

Take a review by Christian Blauvelt of Charlie Chaplin’s silent film The Circus , for example. Since the film does not have sound, properly critiquing the film requires close attention. Viewers have to pay attention to the various nuances in Chaplin’s performance, follow the story, and take in the cinematography. Regarding The Circus , Blauvelt writes, “The film lacks a conventional plot, but is rather a pearl necklace of strung-together episodes. ” The statement isn’t a criticism, but a keen observation likely gleaned from more than one viewing. 

So while every film reviewer has their own approach, many choose to watch a film more than once to deliver the best possible review. Image The Criterion Collection.

2. Express your opinions and support your criticism.

Professional reviewers do not shy away from sharing whether they thought a movie was good, bad, or indifferent. In a review for the film Mother!, reviewer Candice Frederick describes the film as “uncomfortable,” and “controversial,” helping viewers understand the tone of the movie. While Frederick seemed to enjoy the film, her honesty about how it would make audiences feel was vital in writing the review.

Be sure to back up these thoughts with specifics–a disappointing performance, beautiful cinematography, difficult material that leaves you thinking, and so on. Professional reviewers should express why and how they came to their criticism.

3. Consider your audience.

Are you writing for a fan site or a news outlet? Who will read your pieces, and what are their interests? Knowing who your readers are and where the review will be published can help you decide what elements of the movie to highlight. For example, take these two very different reviews for the film ‘Synecdoche, New York’.  

The first review was written by Alonso Duralde for The Today Show , and clocks in at around 500 words. The film focuses on the bullet points: characters, plot, and a concise review. The second review is over 3,000 words and published on the Critical Critics blog . This review goes into massive depth (and yes, includes spoilers) about the film, providing an incredible amount of analysis. The first review is tailored for the casual filmgoer, while the second is for cinephiles. Each review serves a different purpose.

It’s also a good idea to adjust your writing style to fit the target audience. For example, Alonso Duralde is a talented film reviewer and likely wrote the review to fit the tone of The Today Show site. Image via Director’s Library.

4. Talk about the acting.

When reviewing a film, it’s important to take space to discuss the performances. Does the film feature a seasoned actor in a new kind of role or a brilliant performance from a rising star? How was the acting? In a review by Brett Milam for the award-winning film Whiplash , he goes into rich detail about performances by both breakthrough actor Miles Teller and seasoned professional JK Simmons.

Regarding Teller, Milam writes, “This is a performance. This is art,” and about Simmons, “I found him fascinating to just look at.” Those are just small examples of the analysis he provides regarding their acting. As the film mostly focuses on the relationship between their two characters, Miles as the protagonist and JK as the antagonist, the review of the performances lends well to the plot of the film: student and teacher going head to head in an intense and determined showdown. 

Feedback about how well the actors handled the script, the dynamics in an ensemble, and so much more can help describe how the actors did in any given film.

5. Call out directors, cinematographers, and special effects.

Reviews that include highlights or missteps of directors, cinematographers, and costume designers can help provide support to your critiques. By providing specific examples of what worked, what surprised you, and what fell short of expectations, reviewers can write a well-thought-out review that goes beyond whether or not you liked it.

In a review for A Wrinkle in Time , Monique Jones artfully crafts a piece that diplomatically cites the missteps of the film. From analyzing the quality of the CGI to the camera techniques to inconsistencies in the rules of the fantasy universe, Jones fairly offers a critique that guides the filmmakers and crew on future endeavors. To write this type of review, it helps to have some knowledge of the filmmaking process so you can properly assess the screenwriting, cinematography, special effects, acting, and more. Image via Disney.

6. No spoilers!

The point of writing a movie review is to get people interested in seeing a movie. That’s why it’s absolutely best practice to not reveal spoilers in a film review. Film reviewer Robert Daniels approaches this creatively. In his review of Annihilation , he provides commentary on what would be considered spoilers. However, he places that part of the review at the bottom of the article under a bold header/image that warns the reader he’s about to spoil the film. For reviewers who want to dissect the entire film, this is a good way to both tease the film for anyone who hasn’t seen it and cater to people who want to know what the ending is.

Remember: the goal of any film review is to discuss the plot without revealing any twists or the ending of the film. 

7. Study the professionals.

As with all writing endeavors, the more you read, the better. However, with the modern landscape of film reviewing, which can go beyond writing and extend to content creation for social media platforms, there are a ton of reviewers to take notes from. First, determine what kind of reviewer you want to be, and what kind of medium you plan to deliver your reviews on. If you plan to post to Medium, for example, studying the reviewers already established on the site can be a great starting point.

Then, read film reviews for some of your favorite films. Determine which style of review you like and don’t like. Question why, and use your critical eye to consider why one reviewer has a hundred thousand followers and another only has two. If you’re looking to be featured on a website or a magazine, read the publications where you’d like your writing to appear as a template for your reviews, and don’t forget to read the submission guidelines. A few examples of film review professionals include Rotten Tomatoes , Roger Ebert , and Film Comment. 

8. Reread, rewrite, and edit.

While writing film critique is based on opinion, and follows the style of the reviewer, it’s still important to edit work. Writers should check for spelling, grammar, and readability. No matter how good a writer’s opinions are, they will not be taken seriously if the director’s name isn’t spelled correctly. Tools such as Grammarly and Hemingway Editor can be great for correcting and finding areas that need improvement. 

9. Find your voice.

The best reviewers have a distinct personality that comes across in their writing. Los Angeles Times film reviewer Carlos Aguilar wrote an impassioned piece about the film Beatriz at Dinner , going into a lot of detail about his experiences working in the film industry and his Mexican heritage. By sharing anecdotes about casual racism he’s experienced and connecting it to the film’s protagonist, and what she goes through, the review feels personal and relatable.

“If at a film festival – to which I’ve gotten access to because I’m a published writer – in a progressive city like Los Angeles, I must keep my guard up when people question my right to be there, then how are the voiceless supposed to feel safe, respected, or hopeful?” Aguilar writes. 

For new reviewers, developing this type of unique voice does not happen overnight, so take every opportunity to write as an opportunity to develop your style. Image via BBC.

10. Know your taste.

As a film reviewer, it can be helpful to identify your taste in film. By knowing specific preferences, strengths, and biases, reviewers can offer nuanced critiques that resonate with audiences and provide valuable guidance on which films they might enjoy. Additionally, it helps to maintain credibility and integrity as a reviewer by ensuring that assessments are authentic and reflective of personal cinematic sensibilities.

Try to explore various genres, directors, and themes to understand what resonates emotionally, intellectually, and aesthetically. Pay attention to the types of stories that engage you, which can help define your preferences.

Learn More About Filmmaking at NYFA

Film students with writing experience actually make great reviewers, as many of them are required to study a range of topics relating to film that can include cinematography, screenwriting, producing, and much more. Ready to build even more skills in filmmaking? Request more information about New York Film Academy’s filmmaking programs and workshops today!

How to Write a Film Review for High School

How to Write a Critical Summary of an Article

The assignment of writing a movie review for a high school class or newspaper can mean merely a grade from the teacher or publication that is read by the entire student body. Whether you are writing the movie review for a grade or not, you should follow certain conventions associated with the relation of information and opinion.

Choose a movie that is appropriate for the assignment if you have not been asked to review a specific movie. A movie review assignment may allow you leeway to review a movie that is not considered appropriate for publication. Inquire with your teacher as to your choice of movie, but keep in mind that the bulk of the student body will be too young to attend a movie rated above PG-13 without parental supervision and so you may be reviewing a movie that most students have not seen or will not see as a result of your review.

Introduce the movie by title and mention any stars or the name of the director if famous. Insert into the opening paragraph a thesis or overriding topic of your review. Instead of telling your readers that the movie is really great or simply awful, highlight one of the best or worst aspects of the film. Choose a highlight like innovative special effects, an actor’s performance that dominates the movie, a lack of logic in the plotline or some other aspect that sticks out.

Avoid relating the entire plot of the movie in your review. Do not turn the review into a synopsis of the film. Insert a SPOILER ALERT above a paragraph that reveals a surprise plot turn if you cannot adequately relate the essence of the movie’s plot without the revelation. Try to find ways to avoid any spoilers while still getting the point of your review across.

Address the film in the context of its genre. Become aware of what audiences generally tend to expect from a science fiction epic, a romantic comedy or a tearjerker drama. Inform yourself about the conventions and clichés associated with specific movie genres so that you can recognize and relate to your readers such examples as how the science fiction movie breaks new ground in special effects or how the romantic comedy is little more than a collection of the most obvious clichés associated with that genre.

Analyze all the components that make up a good or bad movie and provide insight into how these components are addressed in the movie you are reviewing. For example, state that the acting is very good, but the storyline presents nothing new or interesting; use examples to show how the direction of the movie is creative, but not enough to fill in gaping plot holes.

Conclude with your recommendation to see the movie or not, giving specific reasons as to whether it is worth the price of admission.

• Bring along a pad and pen to make notes as you watch the movie so that you don't forget important elements.

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Timothy Sexton's more than 10,000 articles have been published on sites ranging from USA Today to CareerAddict, from PopEater to TakeLessons.com. His writing has been referenced in books ranging from "The Reckless Life...of Marlon Brando" to "Brand New China: Advertising, Media and Commercial and from Scarface Nation to Incentive!"

10 Movie Review Examples That Will Help You Write Better Reviews

Studying movie review examples is a great place to start if you’re looking for inspiration for your own movie reviews. 

This article has gathered different kinds of movie review examples that will help you write better and more insightful reviews in whatever style you choose.

10 Detailed Movie Review Examples

The classic movie review.

A classic movie review example has a neat structure that clearly communicates the author’s sentiment toward the film in a clean, straightforward manner.

1. “North” by Roger Ebert

“I have no idea why Rob Reiner, or anyone else, wanted to make this story into a movie, and close examination of the film itself is no help.”

The opening sentence of this movie review example makes it clear to the audience that Ebert did not enjoy the film in question and if they would like to know why, they are encouraged to continue reading.

The whole first paragraph is chock full of strong adjectives setting the tone for the scathing critique this film is about to get.

“He [Elijah Wood] plays a kid with inattentive parents, who decides to go into court, free himself of them, and go on a worldwide search for nicer parents.”

“This idea is deeply flawed. Children do not lightly separate from their parents – and certainly not on the evidence provided here, where the great parental sin is not paying attention to their kid at the dinner table.”

In this movie review example, Ebert dives deep into the oddities of the narrative and what makes it so unbelievable.

“What is the point of the scenes with the auditioning parents?… They are not funny. They are not touching. There is no truth in them.”

“I hated this movie. Hated hated hated hated hated this movie. Hated it. Hated every simpering stupid vacant audience-insulting moment of it.”

“‘North’ is a bad film – one of the worst movies ever made.”

After reading Ebert’s movie review example there is no question of whether he liked the movie or not. I don’t know, he might’ve even mentioned hating it at one point…

The Real World Parallel Review

A movie review that can parallel the events occurring within the movie with events occurring outside of the movie shows a deeper level of critical thinking.

2. “The Flash” by Justin Chang

“‘The Flash’ is a time-travel story and a cautionary tale, a warning of how dangerous it can be to change the past or mess around with alternate realities.”

“…this initially enjoyable, increasingly sloppy megabucks mess…”

This review, unlike the classic movie review, spends more time following the plot of the story through a biased lens, further walking readers through the details of the story.

“He gets stuck in the past and… winds up unwisely joining forces with a teenage version of himself (also Miller, with floppier hair), who’s had a much happier childhood but doesn’t (yet) have the Flash’s superheroic powers.”

“Really, though, is nostalgia that satisfying anymore?”

“Lost in an endless game of IP-reshuffling musical chairs, Barry realizes, possibly too late, the futility of dwelling on the past — a fatuous lesson from a movie that can’t stop doing the same.”

3. “Bonnie and Clyde” by Roger Ebert

“‘Bonnie and Clyde’ will be seen as the definitive film of the 1960s, showing with sadness, humor, and unforgiving detail what one society had come to… it was made now and it’s about us.”

READ THE FULL REVIEW OF Bonnie and Clyde BY Roger Ebert

4. “Black Panther” by Soraya Nadia McDonald

“Honestly, the worst thing about Black Panther is that it had to be released in 2018 and not during the term of America’s first black president.”

“Perhaps it’s even capable, just as The Birth of a Nation once was, of helping to steer an entire national conversation.”

The Storytelling Movie Review

If you have a story of your own that you can parallel with the movie’s story, then connecting the movie’s narrative with your own is a particularly entertaining way to craft your review.

5. “The Help” by Wesley Morris

“Three summers ago, I went to visit a friend in West Texas.”

“This pretty much captures the cognitive dissonance of watching “The Help’’: One woman’s mammy is another man’s mother.”

The following paragraph gives a synopsis of the film and introduces the audience to the main characters:

“Meanwhile, the heart of the film itself belongs to Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis) and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer), the two very different maids and best friends at the center of the story.”

“‘The Help’ joins everything from “To Kill a Mockingbird’’ to “The Blind Side’’ as another Hollywood movie that sees racial progress as the province of white do-gooderism.”

“And yet here’s the question you ask as you watch a black actor in 2011 play a white lady’s maid, decades and decades after that was the only job a black woman in Hollywood could get. What went through the minds of Davis, Spencer, and Aunjanue Ellis, who plays Hilly’s maid, as they put on those uniforms and went to work?”

“These are strong figures, as that restaurant owner might sincerely say, but couldn’t they be strong doing something else?”

“On one hand, it’s juicy, heartwarming, well-meant entertainment. On the other, it’s an owner’s manual.”

6. “Me Without You” by Stephen Hunter

This movie review example also tells a story although it’s not personal.

“Friendship isn’t rocket science. It’s much harder.”

“Oh, yeah, it’s easy to say just be loyal and true and that makes you a good friend. But suppose the other person does something that really irks you, like chew gum or vote Democratic?”

“And that thorniness, that dark underbelly of it, is the gist of the acerbic British import ‘Me Without You…'”

“But the truth is, of course, that friendship matters to those of us who still claim membership in the human race…”

READ THE FULL REVIEW OF ME WITHOUT YOU BY STEPHEN HUNTER (Under the title: ‘Me’: Friendship as Relationship)

The Unconventional Movie Review

7. “et” by roger ebert.

“Dear Raven and Emil: Sunday we sat on the big green couch and watched “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” together with your mommy and daddy.”

“The camera watches Elliott moving around. And Raven, that’s when you asked me, “Is this E.T.’s vision?” And I said, yes, we were seeing everything now from E.T.’s point of view.”

Ebert uses this opportunity to make a simplified analysis of the director’s use of POV in the movie, praising the film’s direction without losing the context of a grandfather’s letter.

“Some other filmmaker who wasn’t so good might have had subtitles saying, “E.T.? Are you out there? It’s Mommy!” But that would have been dumb.”

“Well, that’s it for this letter. We had a great weekend, kids. I was proud of how brave you both were during your first pony rides. And proud of what good movie critics you are, too. Love, Grandpa Roger”

8. “Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse” by IMO Flicks

I approached the film this way because I was tired of reviewing Marvel Superhero films but the thought of writing it as an out-of-touch grandma made the review so much more fun and less pressure-filled, even if it’s really not the most straightforward or informational read.

“My granddaughter told me to rate this spider film [ Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse ] out of 10 points. I initially wanted to give it 4 points out of 10… Apparently, my grandchildren think this rating is ridiculous. One of my grandsons almost threw a chair. He gave the film a 200/10, claiming it’s one of the best films he’s ever seen.”

The Self-Aware Review

9. “manchester by the sea” by ty burr.

This movie review example of Manchester By the Sea wants to encourage you to watch the movie but doesn’t want your expectations so high that you don’t experience the same subtle unexpected magic that the movie works on viewers.

“Nothing destroys an audience’s appreciation of a small good movie like advance praise.”

“So I won’t tell you that I’ve seen “Manchester by the Sea” twice now and both times felt haunted for weeks.”

“I won’t bother you with how the movie stands as a soul-satisfying comeback for its maker…”

“I could say, but I won’t, that we’ve all seen too many movies in which a lost soul comes out of his shell and rejoins the human race after he inherits a kid from a dead relative.”

“If I do tell you all this, forget I ever did. Just remember you heard somewhere that “Manchester by the Sea” is an experience worth having…”

10. “Mark Kermode” by Mamma Mia

Kermode’s review of Mama Mia takes his self-awareness in a different direction where he personally loves the movie Mama Mia and is not afraid of letting the world know it.

“One minute I was a miserable critic; the next, everything had gone pink and fluffy.”

Kermode continues the movie review example, touching on the actor’s performances, the director’s execution of the film, and the soundtrack before returning to how the film affected him as a critic.

“I feel duty-bound to report that I came out of the screening an utter wreck.”

“I have certainly mellowed, and perhaps my critical faculties have withered and died. But I simply can’t imagine how Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again could be any better than it is.”

A lot of the time, this personal voice can be merged with other review styles as well.

Common Questions

How to write a movie review, what should a good movie review include, what is the best movie review for students, in conclusion….

If you would like to view 50 more outstanding movie review examples , I’ve grouped some here in a shared Word document available for free!

When I'm not over-analyzing movies, I'm eating chocolate, belting my favorite songs, and binge-watching reality dating shows. Feel free to share your opinions with me and follow me through my social links!

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How to Write a Movie Review

Last Updated: May 13, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Marissa Levis . Marissa Levis is an English Teacher in the Morris County Vocational School District. She previously worked as an English director at a tutoring center that caters to students in elementary and middle school. She is an expert in creating a curriculum that helps students advance their skills in secondary-level English, focusing on MLA formatting, reading comprehension, writing skills, editing and proofreading, literary analysis, standardized test preparation, and journalism topics. Marissa received her Master of Arts in Teaching from Fairleigh Dickinson University. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,629,248 times.

Whether a movie is a rotten tomato or a brilliant work of art, if people are watching it, it's worth critiquing. A decent movie review should entertain, persuade and inform, providing an original opinion without giving away too much of the plot. A great movie review can be a work of art in its own right. Read on to learn how to analyze a movie like a professional film critic, come up with an interesting thesis, and write a review as entertaining as your source material.

Sample Movie Reviews

Writing an Intro for a Movie Review

• Comparison to Relevant Event or Movie: "Every day, our leaders, politicians, and pundits call for "revenge"– against terrorist groups, against international rivals, against other political parties. But few of them understand the cold, destructive, and ultimately hollow thrill of revenge as well as the characters of Blue Ruin. "
• Review in a nutshell: "Despite a compelling lead performance by Tom Hanks and a great soundtrack, Forrest Gump never gets out of the shadow of its weak plot and questionable premise."
• Context or Background Information: " Boyhood might be the first movie made where knowing how it was produced–slowly, over 12 years, with the same actors–is just as crucial as the movie itself."

• Using stars, a score out of 10 or 100, or the simple thumbs-up and thumbs-down is a quick way to give your thoughts. You then write about why you chose that rating.
• Great Movie: ABC is the rare movie that succeeds on almost every level, where each character, scene, costume, and joke firing on all cylinders to make a film worth repeated viewings."
• Bad Movie: "It doesn't matter how much you enjoy kung-fu and karate films: with 47 Ronin, you're better off saving your money, your popcorn, and time."
• Okay Movie: "I loved the wildly uneven Interstellar far more than I should have, but that doesn't mean it is perfect. Ultimately, the utter awe and spectacle of space swept me through the admittedly heavy-handed plotting and dialogue."

• Great: "Michael B. Jordan and Octavia Spencer's chemistry would carry Fruitvale Station even if the script wasn't as good. The mid-movie prison scene in particular, where the camera never leaves their faces, shows how much they can convey with nothing but their eyelids, the flashing tension of neck muscles, and a barely cracking voice."
• Bad: " Jurassic World's biggest flaw, a complete lack of relatable female characters, is only further underscored by a laughably unrealistic shot of our heroine running away from a dinosaur – in heels."
• Okay: "At the end of the day, Snowpiercer can't decide what kind of movie it wants to be. The attention to detail in fight scenes, where every weapon, lightbulb, and slick patch of ground is accounted for, doesn't translate to an ending that seems powerful but ultimately says little of substance."

• Does the film reflect on a current event or contemporary issue? It could be the director's way of engaging in a bigger conversation. Look for ways to relate the content of the film to the "real" world.
• Does the film seem to have a message, or does it attempt to elicit a specific response or emotion from the audience? You could discuss whether or not it achieves its own goals.
• Does the film connect with you on a personal level? You could write a review stemming from your own feelings and weave in some personal stories to make it interesting for your readers.

Composing Your Review

• When you name characters in your plot summary, list the actors' names directly afterward in parenthesis.
• Find a place to mention the director's name and the full movie title.
• If you feel you must discuss information that might "spoil" things for readers, warn them first.

• Cinematography: " Her is a world drenched in color, using bright, soft reds and oranges alongside calming whites and grays that both build, and slowly strip away, the feelings of love between the protagonists. Every frame feels like a painting worth sitting in."
• Tone: "Despite the insane loneliness and high stakes of being stuck alone on Mars, The Martian's witty script keeps humor and excitement alive in every scene. Space may be dangerous and scary, but the joy of scientific discovery is intoxicating."
• Music and Sound: " No Country For Old Men's bold decision to skip music entirely pays off in spades. The eerie silence of the desert, punctuated by the brief spells of violent, up-close-and-personal sound effects of hunter and hunted, keeps you constantly on the edge of your seat."
• Acting: "While he's fantastic whenever he's on the move, using his cool stoicism to counteract the rampaging bus, Keanu Reeves can't quite match his costar in the quiet moments of Speed, which falter under his expressionless gaze."

• Keep your writing clear and easy to understand. Don't use too much technical filmmaking jargon, and make your language crisp and accessible.
• Present both the facts and your opinion. For example, you might state something such as, "The Baroque background music was a jarring contrast to the 20th century setting." This is a lot more informative then simply saying, "The music was a strange choice for the movie."

• Great: "In the end, even the characters of Blue Ruin know how pointless their feud is. But revenge, much like every taut minute of this thriller, is far too addictive to give up until the bitter end.""
• Bad: "Much like the oft-mentioned "box of chocolates", Forest Gump has a couple of good little morsels. But most of the scenes, too sweet by half, should have been in the trash long before this movie was put out."
• Okay: "Without the novel, even revolutionary concept, Boyhood may not be a great movie. It might not even be "good.” But the power the film finds in the beauty of passing time and little, inconsequential moments – moments that could only be captured over 12 years of shooting – make Linklater's latest an essential film for anyone interested in the art of film."

Polishing Your Piece

• Ask yourself whether your review stayed true to your thesis. Did your conclusion tie back in with the initial ideas you proposed?
• Decide whether your review contains enough details about the movie. You may need to go back and add more description here and there to give readers a better sense of what the movie's about.
• Decide whether your review is interesting enough as a stand-alone piece of writing. Did you contribute something original to this discussion? What will readers gain from reading your review that they couldn't from simply watching the movie?

Studying Your Source Material

• The title of the film, and the year it came out.
• The director's name.
• The names of the lead actors.

• Make a note every time something sticks out to you, whether it's good or bad. This could be costuming, makeup, set design, music, etc. Think about how this detail relates to the rest of the movie and what it means in the context of your review.
• Take note of patterns you begin to notice as the movie unfolds.
• Use the pause button frequently so you make sure not to miss anything, and rewind as necessary.

• Direction: Consider the director and how he or she choose to portray/explain the events in the story. If the movie was slow, or didn't include things you thought were necessary, you can attribute this to the director. If you've seen other movies directed by the same person, compare them and determine which you like the most.
• Cinematography: What techniques were used to film the movie? What setting and background elements helped to create a certain tone?
• Writing: Evaluate the script, including dialogue and characterization. Did you feel like the plot was inventive and unpredictable or boring and weak? Did the characters' words seem credible to you?
• Editing: Was the movie choppy or did it flow smoothly from scene to scene? Did they incorporate a montage to help build the story? And was this obstructive to the narrative or did it help it? Did they use long cuts to help accentuate an actor's acting ability or many reaction shots to show a group's reaction to an event or dialogue? If visual effects were used were the plates well-chosen and were the composited effects part of a seamless experience? (Whether the effects looked realistic or not is not the jurisdiction of an editor, however, they do choose the footage to be sent off to the compositors, so this could still affect the film.)
• Costume design: Did the clothing choices fit the style of the movie? Did they contribute to the overall tone, rather than digressing from it?
• Set design: Consider how the setting of the film influenced its other elements. Did it add or subtract from the experience for you? If the movie was filmed in a real place, was this location well-chosen?
• Score or soundtrack: Did it work with the scenes? Was it over/under-used? Was it suspenseful? Amusing? Irritating? A soundtrack can make or break a movie, especially if the songs have a particular message or meaning to them.

Expert Q&A

• If you don't like the movie, don't be abusive and mean. If possible, avoid watching the movies that you would surely hate. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Understand that just because the movie isn't to your taste, that doesn't mean you should give it a bad review. A good reviewer helps people find movie's they will like. Since you don't have the same taste in movies as everyone else, you need to be able to tell people if they will enjoy the movie, even if you didn't. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Structure is very important; try categorizing the different parts of the film and commenting on each of those individually. Deciding how good each thing is will help you come to a more accurate conclusion. For example, things like acting, special effects, cinematography, think about how good each of those are. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing, check out our in-depth interview with Marissa Levis .

• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/terminology_and_starting_prompts.html
• ↑ https://www.spiritofbaraka.com/how-write-a-movie-review
• ↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/9-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/writing-help/top-tips-for-writing-a-review
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/summary-using-it-wisely/
• ↑ https://twp.duke.edu/sites/twp.duke.edu/files/file-attachments/film-review-1.original.pdf
• ↑ https://www.dailywritingtips.com/7-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/film_writing_sample_analysis.html
• ↑ https://learning.hccs.edu/faculty/onnyx.bei/dual-credit/movie-review-writing-guide
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-a-movie-review/
• ↑ https://gustavus.edu/writingcenter/handoutdocs/editing_proofreading.php
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://edusson.com/blog/how-to-write-movie-review

About This Article

To write a movie review, start with a compelling fact or opinion to hook your readers, like "Despite a great performance by Tom Hanks, Forrest Gump never overcomes its weak plot." Then, elaborate on your opinion of the movie right off the bat so readers know where you stand. Once your opinion is clear, provide examples from the movie that prove your point, like specific scenes, dialogue, songs, or camera shots. To learn how to study a film closely before you write a review, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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18 Movies for ESL Students

In native English classrooms, teachers often get their students started with a book and then let them watch the movie based off of it as a reward.

But movies have so much more to offer.

You can also use the movie adaptations by themselves to teach and encourage your students to explore the English language.

Today, we’ll take a look at some popular movies based on books and what theymove can do for your ESL students .

ESL Movies for Beginners

1. “how the grinch stole christmas”, 2. “charlie and the chocolate factory”, 3. “miss peregrine’s home for peculiar children”, 4. “harry potter and the sorcerer’s stone”, 5. “the maze runner”, 6. “holes”, esl movies for intermediate learners, 7. “the fault in our stars”, 8. “the hunger games”, 9. “divergent”, 10. “the book thief”, 11. “about a boy”, 12. “rumble fish”, esl movies for advanced learners, 13. “everything is illuminated”, 14. “of mice and men”, 15. “fight club”, 16. “gone girl”, 17. “to kill a mockingbird”, 18. “life of pi”.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Everyone likes Christmas—that is, everyone who isn’t the Grinch, a creature who lives by himself in the mountains (with his dog) and a disposition as sour as his looks.

One day, when he can no longer stand the noise and the bells and the sounds of Christmas celebrations from the nearby town of Whoville, the Grinch takes it upon himself to “steal” Christmas.

Why It Works for ESL Students

It’s hard to go wrong with Dr. Seuss, especially when working with kids or beginners. The language Seuss uses may throw in a ton of invented words, but the great stories more than make up for that. And speaking of the language, the rhymes and rhythm of the story are fun and can help students learn pronunciation .

There’s also a live-action version of the film released in 2000, though I personally prefer the animated version. Not only is the latter much shorter (making it easier to digest), but students don’t need to be too familiar with Christmas to understand what’s going on. All celebrations have some kind of tangible representation, so your students should be able to easily grasp the significance of the Grinch stealing Christmas decorations, gifts and the feast. 

Charlie Bucket, a boy from a poor family, lives near the Wonka Factory, which recently closed down due to issues with rivals attempting to steal the factory’s secrets—specifically, its fantastic candies that are unlike any other.

One day, Willy Wonka, the owner of the Wonka Factory, announces a contest where five winners of Golden Tickets (which have been randomly tucked into five Wonka Bars worldwide) get to have a free tour of his factory, an unlimited supply of chocolate and another surprise prize by the end of the tour. Charlie happens to win one of the tickets, and so the plot kicks off.

Roald Dahl’s writing is clear and highly accessible to children, and his books remain beloved even decades later. In terms of vocabulary, this is certainly more complicated than Seuss’ books, but the accompanying illustrations help make it clearer.

Also, even though students may have difficulties with certain words, this can be a good introduction to reading for gist and understanding unknown vocabulary from context . You can emphasize that they need not understand every single word as long as they get the general idea.

Like the “Grinch,” this book has two movie adaptations. The 1971 musical version starring Gene Wilder was actually titled “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” while the 2005 Tim Burton-directed adaptation starring Johnny Depp kept the name of the original book.

Interestingly, the 1971 version seems to stay a bit closer to the story, while the 2005 version used advances in film technology to better embody the aesthetic the book describes. Either way, many students seem to like Johnny Depp, so that may be the one to go with.

“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” is a thrilling tale of children with special abilities trying to protect themselves from both the outside world and the bad guys out to get them. The story follows Jake’s discovery of the peculiar children and his fight to keep them safe.

This movie is great for adult ESL students and teenagers learning to speak English . Characters speak with both American and British accents, which can be a nice exposure for your students.

And while the movie is typically creepy (Tim Burton was the director, after all), the plot is simple. The children are hiding from the bad guys, and the bad guys are coming to get them.

If your students choose to read the book, there are plenty of pictures throughout to help aid their comprehension , which makes it a nice choice for ESL students.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is based on the hugely popular book by J.K. Rowling. It tells the story of Harry, who has lived in the regular world all his life, and has just found out that he and his deceased parents are famous wizards.

“The Sorcerer’s Stone” is an introduction to the world of magic Harry has been missing his entire life.

The movie and book are very similar, which makes it a good choice for ESL students who aren’t too experienced with reading in English. You can feel good about using the book and the movie with upper beginners and up. Just keep in mind that the actors speak British English throughout the movie.

In fact, the strength of the “Harry Potter” series is not only that it’s available in multiple formats such as book , audiobook and movie , but also that it’s available in many languages worldwide.

As explained in the video above, you can find “Harry Potter” in your students’ native language and use that to help them learn English.

In fact, it’s very likely that your students already know the plot and might’ve even already read or watched “Harry Potter.” That makes comprehension easier, and your students will be able to focus on additional vocabulary and grammar activities.

“The Maze Runner” is the story of Thomas, who finds himself without memories in a community of teenage boys, none of whom can remember where they came from or why they are there.

The boys live in The Glade, a section of land surrounded by the giant walls of a maze. Thomas and the other boys must solve the maze to escape and get their lives back.

“The Maze Runner” is a good movie for ESL students because the plot is very simple: Thomas must discover a way out of The Glade.

Much of the plot can be understood visually rather than depending heavily on dialogue, which makes it good for beginning and low intermediate ESL students.

Following up with the book is a good choice because the writing is relatively simple but the story is still interesting and suspenseful.

In “Holes,” a young boy is wrongfully convicted of a crime and is sent to a detention camp in the middle of a desert. There, he (along with others like him) is forced to dig holes for a mysterious reason.

The 2003 movie adaptation has a great cast that includes Sigourney Weaver, John Voigt and Shia LaBoeuf. The English is generally close to the book, and many parts of the plot involve flashbacks. That means your students can listen to a character talk about events while watching them on the screen. The movie is also very well-made and faithful to the book, even if it didn’t get much attention when it came out.

As for the book itself, it’s quite engaging and interesting, and the characters are well-developed, at least for a “kids’” book. It starts off using very short, clear sentences, and gradually picks up the pace by adding longer paragraphs just when readers are getting used to the style.

Louis Sachar is an excellent author, and the story deals with some difficult issues like race, murder, justice and rehabilitation in an entertaining way without talking down to readers.

Have your tissues on hand when you view this film with your students. “The Fault in Our Stars” is a raw and honest look at life in the midst of tragedy.

The story follows Hazel in her battle against terminal cancer and Gus as he lives life as a cancer survivor. It’s an emotional movie that encourages viewers to live life to the fullest each and every day.

No matter what country a person calls home, everyone lives life feeling the same emotions—joy, sadness, despair, elation and the like. Intense emotion is something that everyone, including each of your ESL students, can relate to.

As your students watch this movie or read the book it’s based on, the struggles that Hazel and Gus face will touch them in their deepest places and might just spur them on to make the most out of every day they have.

To punish its citizens for a revolt that occurred many years ago, the government demands two tributes from each district—one boy and one girl between 12 and 18 years old—to compete in the annual Hunger Games, where they must fight to the death until only one survivor remains. 

The movie is visually stunning, and it brings the story to life in a way that really builds on the great visuals already described in Suzanne Collins’ work. It can also lead to interesting discussions regarding the future of the world, totalitarian structures, friendship, love and family.

As for the books, they’re hugely popular (so much so that many of your students may have already read them) and the movies have also been incredibly popular with various age groups.

The writing is at a good, intermediate level that’s neither too easy nor too challenging for your students. The style is noteworthy as well, since it’s written in first person present.

“Divergent” is set in post-apocalyptic Chicago, its inhabitants divided into five factions depending on their dominant personality trait.

Tris, the protagonist, leaves Abnegation, the faction of selflessness, to join Dauntless, the faction of bravery. The movie follows her journey to become a part of a new community and culture.

This movie is great for starting a conversation on culture since Tris is submerged in a culture completely different from the one she has known her entire life.

If you’re teaching ESL in an English-speaking country, many of your students will find themselves in similar positions. The members of your class will relate to Tris on the screen as well as on the page, and her struggle to understand a new world and find her place within it.

“The Book Thief” tells the story of Liesel, a young girl in war-torn Germany in the 1930s. At the start of the story, Liesel is illiterate, and it’s her foster father Hans who teaches her to read and inspires in her a love of the written word.

The movie takes a very personal look at historic events that affected people all over the world. Your students will probably have studied these events in their home countries and first languages, so they will have some knowledge of the context that the movie and book take place in. This will give them an advantage in comprehension and allow you to push them a little harder than you might with other material.

Be aware that, throughout the movie, the actors speak with a German accent. This can be a challenge for ESL students who may be used to hearing a neutral accent in spoken English, but it’s also a good one. It will challenge students’ listening skills , making them better overall speakers (and listeners) of English. But because of this, you may want to reserve this movie for your intermediate and advanced students.

Also, your students may be able to relate with the main character’s struggle to learn a new language. You can zero in on the short scene where Liesel finishes her first book, “The Gravedigger’s Handbook,” to where Hans shows her the dictionary he has created on the walls of their basement, and make a Q&A or activity about it.

“About a Boy” is a rom-com about Will Freeman, a freewheeling bachelor who attends a meeting of single parents to meet single women. Of course, since the meeting is for parents , Will has to pretend that he has a toddler of his own.

Unfortunately for Will, Marcus—the son of one of the other parents attending the meeting—discovers his ruse. Marcus uses this information to blackmail Will, and shenanigans—as well as some much-needed character development for Will—ensue.

The book isn’t necessarily easy reading, but it’s thoroughly entertaining. The plot is funny and the language includes a lot of useful slang (although it’s British English , so keep in mind that some vocabulary may be different if that’s not what you’re teaching).

The book also switches perspectives from Marcus (the boy) to Will (the man-child), but remains in the third person, which means that it plays with point-of-view but doesn’t make things too confusing for ESL readers.

The movie adaptation from 2002 is arguably even better than the book. For class use, you can examine what it means to be a family or a role model, how people redeem themselves and how they can live a fulfilled life.

“Rumble Fish” revolves around two brothers: Motorcycle Boy, an ex-gang leader who wants to leave his life of crime behind, and Rusty James, the younger of the two brothers who wants to get into Motorcycle Boy’s old way of life.

Naturally, this sets up the conflict that will drive the film through to its tragic conclusion.

The 1983 movie, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring a cast with about a dozen actors who are still famous today, is pretty incredible, especially considering that most people probably haven’t even heard of this adaptation of one of S.E. Hinton’s books.

The book was published in 1975, so many aspects of it are likely to be dated, like its book’s language. A few slang words—including the word “rumble” in the title itself—may have fallen out of fashion and can therefore be confusing for students. If you’re from a later generation, you may find some of these words confusing as well, so make sure you watch the movie before class, take note of anything that seems odd and look it up.

That said, the majority of the language is still authentic, and the characters spend most of the book immersed everyday life, talking about what young people like to talk about and doing what young people like to do. Most of that vocabulary is timeless, and can help students build up their vocabulary to talk about their own lives .

A young Jewish-American man, motivated by a passion for uncovering his family history, travels to Ukraine to find out what happened to his grandfather during World War II.

The 2005 movie starring Elijah Wood manages to convey the eccentric spirit of the story in a beautifully visual way. “Everything is Illuminated” can complement units that talk about World War II or the Holocaust, and could be woven into discussions about ancestry and identity.

Also, the book is told through various authors and from different perspectives. One narrator, Alex, is Ukranian, and as such his English is full of non-standard phrases and words (indeed, the title of the book is possibly just his attempt to convey the idea “all clear”). That might actually be good, though, since you can highlight the importance of communication and contrast it with the use of “correct,” standard English. It’s also interesting to see Alex’s English change and evolve throughout the story.

The movie centers around the two men depicted in the movie poster: George Milton, who is healthy both physically and mentally, and Lennie Small, who is the complete opposite.

Forced to flee their employer during the Great Depression (due to attempted rape charges filed against Lennie), the two end up on a ranch, where trouble unfortunately continues to follow Lennie.

Compared to “Everything is Illuminated,” “Of Mice and Men” uses the relatively simpler language characteristic of John Steinbeck’s work. The movie follows the book’s plot very closely, and can be used in class to practice comparing and contrasting the two mediums.

Also, because one of the main characters has an intellectual disability, the movie can also be used as a jumping off point for discussions on how such individuals should be treated in society. Even though the movie is set in a completely different era, you may want to touch on how prevailing societal beliefs back then (and arguably even now) affected Lennie’s ability to live a normal life.

I would give you a summary of what this movie is all about, but then I’d be violating the first rule of Fight Club—that is, to not talk about Fight Club.

I’m kidding, of course. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be devoting an entire section on why your ESL students can benefit from this film. There’s also a good reason it’s not easy to summarize this film, which I’ll get to in a bit.

I put this under the “Advanced” section for a reason. The movie goes into plenty of tangents, but they actually seem to highlight the gist of the film.

For example, a scene may show a dialogue between two people, when the narrator’s voice-over all of a sudden throws in a tangential sentence or two. If the students understand the tangent, more power to them, but it’s not always crucial to understanding what’s going on in the main plot.

Many people love the book “Fight Club” is based on, but it’s not necessarily the most ESL-friendly book out there. In fact, it’s likely to be challenging for many readers. There are frequent asides and tangents that don’t really have much to do with the plot at hand at any given moment. That can be frustrating, but it can also be a great way to teach ESL students to read for gist.

Despite its title, the story is actually more of a critique of consumerism, masculinity and modern society, although there is some fighting. You can explore these topics in class discussions, and can include conversations about mental health, gender relationships and violence.

When Amy Dunne suddenly vanishes after the fifth anniversary of her marriage to the writer Nick, Nick becomes the prime suspect. As more details get revealed about the couple’s life, it would appear that not all is well in paradise.

This is another dark yet slightly funny story. The book is definitely more accessible for ESL readers than “Fight Club,” but it’s significantly longer.

The movie is directed by David Fincher, who also directed “Fight Club,” so many stylistic elements are similar. Because there’s a mystery element to the film, you can ask students to pay close attention to clues that hint at the conclusion it eventually arrives at. Can they give any alternate interpretations to the characters of Nick and Amy?

This 1962 film is set in Alabama, where Atticus Finch, a widowed lawyer, attempts to defend a black man against false criminal charges.

He also tries to educate his children, one of which is the narrator of the film, against the dangers of choosing to view certain individuals as “the other” rather than as human beings in their own right.

The themes explored in this story—good and evil, racism, family, tolerance and growing up—are universal and never get old. Both the book and movie are regarded as classics, and with good reason.

The book has some aspects of a southern dialect, so that can be interesting for ESL readers, especially when comparing the speech of people from different social classes. Atticus Finch, both in the book and as embodied by Gregory Peck, also provides an excellent example of clear, “proper” English .

The theatrical poster is striking enough: a lone boy on a boat with a tiger. Believe it or not, this isn’t a fantasy flick: it’s an adventure film about survival, human nature and the value of a good story.

And once your students watch the film itself, they’ll probably agree that the plot is even more striking than the poster—which is a feat in itself! In fact, the film has won a number of awards —including the Academy Award for Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score and Best Visual Effects.

Like “To Kill a Mockingbird,” this movie deals with good and evil, values, family and human dignity. If your current lesson revolves around those topics, “Life of Pi” weaves them in a thoughtful way that’s sure to spark some heated classroom discussion.

Also, it provides a good opportunity to discuss the concept of allegory and how this film is a good example of it. What do the animals represent? Why did the main character choose to tell his story in allegory form instead of a straightforward narrative? 

Movies may be primarily made to entertain, but don’t let that stop you from using them as a learning tool .

Make the most of what Hollywood has to offer and create memorable English movie lessons in the process.

And if you’re looking for more authentic learning materials, check out our list of books for ESL students: 

Books for English language learners (ELLs) should be engaging, culturally relevant and appropriate for the level you’re teaching. Check out these 18 excellent ELL books…

Related posts:

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Let’s go to the movies! – ESL lesson plan on films

• Culture Vulture
• TV & Cinema
• Writing Skills

Writing - film review

LESSON OVERVIEW

This ESL lesson plan on films is based on a video presenting some details about Pain and Glory, a film by Pedro Almodovar that is nominated to 2020 Oscars. The worksheet consists of two parts, pre-class and in-class activities, but the whole lesson plan can also be done during the class as the video is just 6 min long. The purpose of the lesson plan is to prepare students to write a short film review (150 words).

This is a Flipped Classroom lesson plan. In a nutshell, it means that the first part of the lesson needs to be done by students at home. Learn more about flipped classroom and how we implement it in these lesson plans in our post.

PRE-CLASS ACTIVITIES

The pre-class worksheet of this lesson plan on films starts with a listening comprehension task . Students need to watch the first part of the video and note what provided figures and dates refer to in the video. Next, they watch the same part of the video again. This time they have to complete sentences taken from the video with correct words they hear. In the same sentences, there are some words in bold which students have to match with correct meanings in the next task. The video itself is full of great vocab so you can go through the script and get some more words you find useful for your students and let your students watch the whole video!

IN-CLASS ACTIVITIES

The first in-class activity includes discussion questions which are based on the info from the video and contain some vocabulary from previous exercises . After that, students move to another task on vocabulary. They have to match sentence halves that also include a lot of great vocabulary which is useful when talking about films (e.g. be shot ,  cast , plot twists , nail-biter , etc.). Next, students r ead a short film review and complete it with words from the box. Finally, having learnt all the vocabulary and read the review, students are ready to write their own short film reviews . Remind them to include vocabulary from the lesson as well as write about such aspects in their reviews as the plot, setting, cast, their opinion and recommendation.

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I’m getting access denied on this one. Is it a problem on my side or yours?

Check it again, Pedro! It should be alright.

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Quick Guide on How to Write a Movie Review Essay

What Is a Movie Review

The internet has revolutionized the realm of film criticism. No matter a movie's level of quality, it is always worth analyzing. Despite the growing number of individuals attempting to write about movies, few are successful. Most people do not provide insightful analysis, instead simply state how much they liked or disliked the film.

A movie criticism, usually composed by a professional in film studies, takes a comprehensive look at the film from a historical, social, political, or theoretical standpoint. This is unlike the opinion or suggestion given in a movie review, which is shorter and more concise.

A remarkable aspect of a good film review is that it doesn't just rate the movie but provides explicit views that form the critique's basis. This form of writing, like crafting essays, research papers, and term papers, should be insightful and draw the reader in quickly. It's important to discuss the reputation of the lead actors and directors and to write about what you expected and if they were met. The reviewer must explain a story's development without recalling major plot points and endings. The review must be concise, engaging, and should involve metaphors, specific words, analogies, etc.

Movie Review Purpose

Most film reviews are intended to guide readers in deciding whether to view, rent, or purchase the film. They should provide the necessary information to aid readers in deciding without divulging any fundamental details, such as the storyline or any surprises. This paper is common in schools because the lecturer wants to evaluate the student's ability to think critically and report the event easily for others to understand.

Movie reviews typically present a brief summary of the film's storyline. They provide readers with an overview of the characters, relationships, and scenarios but do not convey the complete narrative. Perusing the review should be different from seeing the movie. Nonetheless, feel free to highlight the essential moments or pivotal points that make the film worthwhile viewing.

Our college essay writing service has put together some advice on composing a movie review essay like a real critic, so let's explore the article further!

How to Write a Movie Review: Movie Review Outline

The structure is key when it comes to the quality of your paper. Don't neglect the power of a good outline, no matter what paper you're writing. Outlines help you stay on track and make sure your paper flows well.

Taking the time to arrange your ideas before starting to write is an effective way to save time further down the line. With a well-structured plan already in place, you won't have to worry about other elements. This will also make the writing process less stressful. Here is a guide on how to organize your movie review outline:

How Do You Start a Movie Review Essay: Introduction

The introductory paragraph is the first obvious step in crafting a movie review essay outline. Here, you want to quickly captivate the reader. Deliver your viewpoint instantly and make it unambiguous. Don't leave the audience wondering whether you enjoyed the film. Tell them right off the bat so you have time to justify your assessment throughout the remainder of the process.

In the introduction movie review should also describe your thesis. Develop the main concept for your essay that you can support using your perceptions of the movie's various aspects. The reader should be able to tell from this statement if you thought the film was fantastic, awful, or simply alright. By including a thesis statement, you may move your analysis beyond the plot synopsis phase into the movie critique category, which is considered a separate creative process.

Crafting Your Essay Movie Review Analysis

According to our research paper service , film analysis is similar to building a case. You're attempting to influence the reader to follow your recommendation to watch or disregard the film. So, you must ensure your essay movie review will be convincing. Giving instances that demonstrate the validity of your personal opinion is the only method to do this. If you find any dialogue in the movie that you think best exemplifies whether the work is strong or not, utilize quotes. This also applies to all of the movie's artistic decisions. But, just because a movie's narrative isn't strong or engaging doesn't indicate the rest of the film is worthless. Carefully highlight how some factors might undermine the movie in your explanation.

The movie's plot is only one component and shouldn't dominate the overall piece. The following are the important aspects to include in your movie review structure:

Cinematography - Cinematography covers much more than simply camera angles. It includes how the picture is lit, how it moves, appears, and what lenses are used. Here you can try the following analysis: 'Warm, gentle colors are used throughout the film, combined with soothing whites and grays, to simultaneously create and gradually tear away the characters' romantic sentiments for one another. There is a painting-like quality to each image.'

Editing - The editing is arguably the absolute star of what creates a good movie review example. It affects both the duration and the flow of a movie. Without effective editing, there would be uncomfortable gaps between pictures and many errors.

Costuming - The clothing the characters wear is called a costume, but there are a number of things to consider while evaluating movie costumes. You should be able to decide if the outfits suit the characters and the movie's atmosphere.

Casting and Acting - Finding the ideal performers to bring characters to life is the goal of casting. This sometimes entails seeing performers portray both familiar personas and figures who are entirely at odds with who they are. Casting, therefore, involves more than just finding talented performers. You can assess the acting in the following way: 'Even though he excels while on the go, his stoic behaviorism causes him to fall short of his co-star during calm scenes where he keeps a blank look on his face.'

Once you have finished analyzing the acting, directing, cinematography, setting, etc., wrap up with concise, stimulating wording to sustain readers' attention. Don't forget to provide a few examples to support your statements about the film.

Concluding Your Essay Movie Review

Finalize your review by coming full circle. Close the review by returning to your introductory fact or thesis. Give your readers a refresher on the movie's most intriguing aspects. It's important to remember that before choosing a movie, viewers check reviews. Finish with a statement indicating whether it is worthwhile for them to view. Be specific about who this movie will be more fascinating to and why in your suggestions. Remember that your ending is your last shot at influencing your audience, so use it wisely.

No matter the kind of movie review you have to complete, our professional specialists are willing to help you. Directly forward your needs to our research paper service and get it done quickly.

Need Help With MOVIE REVIEW WRITING?

No matter what type of movie review you want, our qualified specialists are ready to assist you.

Short Movie Review Form

If you are currently working on a new or old movie review, reading our suggestions should be sufficient to help you earn an A. So what if you'll be writing many reviews in the future? In this situation, we advise you to develop a uniform movie review template, which will enable you to save time and complete your upcoming projects successfully.

So, how to write a movie review template, you may ask? Well, our essay helper prepared a simple yet great movie review template you may use as a foundation for your own writing if you need some help getting started:

Example Papers

Once you know how to review a movie and learn the most valuable tips to handle this assignment, it is time to look at some movie review examples to get you on the right track.

Check out the following pieces to see which of these movie review essay examples you might want to keep at hand when working on your own assignment:

Helpful Tips on Writing Movie Reviews

Here are some extra helpful tips to keep in mind when unsure how to write a movie review essay:

• Add Your Own Personal Feel to Your Movie Critique - You might not have much spare time for your pastime of reviewing. You won't be able to write a movie review, though, if you just wing it without reading what others have said. Make a note of the things that intrigued you, alarmed you, made you uncomfortable, or caused you to pause and consider something, and then use that list as the basis for your research.
• Develop a Distinctive Writing Style - Have an idol—it's good for you. You must be careful not to just paraphrase and duplicate what they say without adding your own original viewpoint. Instead, in order to stand out from the throng, you must discover your own voice. When writing movie reviews, you should also have a distinct writing style.
• Include Extensive Information -Mention the film's photographer, special effects designer, and director. Your review might be significantly impacted by this. Then you may list all the memorable movie moments that also stuck with you.
• Voice Your Views and Back Up Your Criticism - Give your own assessment of the film. Make sure you have evidence to support your criticisms. Use the movie's details that most shocked or humiliated you. Review genuine information rather than merely expressing your opinions without supporting details.

Final Thoughts

Composing a good movie review essay sample is easy if you follow this article's main steps and techniques. Furthermore, we strongly believe that this guide will assist you in achieving remarkable outcomes and ease your writing process. The staff at EssayPro is always available to provide a helping hand if you need a little additional push with movie review examples or even if it's simply coming up with a catchy essay title .

Order an essay and await excellent results! Contact our expert writers and ask them to ' write my essay for me ' – and they will ensure your academic success!

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FAQs on Writing an Essay Movie Review

Here are the most frequently asked questions on how to write a movie review. We provided extra details on movie analysis to simplify writing film reviews.

What are the 6 Important Things to Include in a Film Review?

How long should a movie review be, what are the 5 c's in film.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

The Seven Best Short Films for ELT Students

I’ve been writing lesson plans designed around short films for my website Film English for six years. Teachers often ask me how I find the short films I use in my lesson plans. The answer is quite simple: I’ve watched literally thousands of short films and developed an instinct for the type of engaging and simple short films which will work in the ELT classroom. In this article I’d like to share what for me are the seven best short films for the language classroom.

The  Mirror

The Mirror is a short film by  Ramon and Pedro  which tells the story of a boy’s journey from childhood to old age. It works very well for getting students  speaking, writing and using vocabulary related to age, face, body, mood and actions. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

The Notebook

The notebook is a moving short film by Greg Gray and is wonderful for introducing the theme of empathy. It can be used to get students to learn and practise vocabulary related to household chores. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

The Present

The Present is a gripping short film with a wonderful twist by Jacob Frey  which deals with the themes of empathy, teenagers and disability.  You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

Soar is a delightful short film by Alyce Tzue  which can be used to get students to predict and write a narrative. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

I Forgot My Phone

I Forgot My Phone is a thought-provoking short film by Miles Crawford which is a great prompt for discussion and reflection on addiction to mobile phones. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

iDiots is a short film by special effects company BLR_VFX and deals with the themes of technology, mass consumption and instant gratification. It’s a great prompt to get students thinking and speaking about mobile phones and technology. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

Fear of Flying

Fear of Flying is a beautiful short film by Conor Finnegan which is an effective way to introduce and discuss the theme of fears and how to overcome them. You can watch the film below and find a full lesson plan here .

I hope you like the short films and find the lesson plans useful. Are there any short films you’ve used in the classroom that you’d like to share?

26 comments on “ The Seven Best Short Films for ELT Students ”

Thought you made a mistake putting the same vidoe to all of the entrances…

Hi Edward, I’m sorry, but I’m not sure what you mean? Are you seeing the same films? If so, I’d suggest refreshing your browser. Thanks. Kieran

Sr, as I see, all the videos are the same. Review them and tell me. But do the review and you´ll see that everyone is the same, about the same littel boy.

Hi Edward, I’ve just checked the article in Chrome, Internet Explorer and Safari and they all show seven completely different short films. I can only suggest that you refresh your browser or change to another browswer I hope this helps. Kieran

It could be to do with the country you’re viewing the page from – I see the little boy too and the video turns out to be an advert for dialdirect insurance.

However, when I click the link to Vimeo below the video I can watch the clips.

I’m using Chrome on a Mac in Russia

Thanks for the heads up, and glad you could solve the problem.

After posting the comment I refreshed the page and all the original videos appeared – apparently it was necessary to watch an advert through to the end to make them appear.

Hi Ben, I’m happy you could sort out the issue. Kieran

He’s right, I had the same experience. After I watched “The Mirror” on my Android phone the same still shot of that film was somehow placed as the image of all seven movie descriptions. This creates the impression that you had linked the same film to all descriptions. It’s some kind of browser, blog template, or Vimeo quirk. A refresh fixes it. Cheers from NY. -Sonny

Thanks for letting me know S.R.

Superb collection ….can you send me more such short films

Hi Vanita, I’m happy you like the selection. You can over 150 short films and lesson plans designed around them at my website Film English http://film-english.com/ Cheers, Kieran

Great set of short films, when I get round to watching them all I will let u know how I got on, thanks.

Hi Barry, Thanks for commenting. I’m glad you like the selection. Please let me know how you get on with the films. All the best, Kieran

Hi Kieran, I have used iDiots and The Present many times in my classes. Thank you for the lesson plans. I think it would be nice to add Serial Taxi to this list. It is a great lesson plan too.

I’d like to share some short films I use in my classes, hope you like them.

One Man’s Loss;

Back to Solitude;

Around the corner;

The man at the counter https://www.shortoftheweek.com/2013/02/26/the-man-at-the-counter/ (I haven’t used this one yet, but I really love the story.)

Hi Ridvin, Thanks very much for commenting and for the kind words. I’ll check out the short films you recommmended. All the best, Kieran

Hi Kieran, Thank you for sharing your short films and the lesson plans. I have downloaded four of them and will in due course, sit quietly and watch them. I was wondering, do you have any short films for elementary students I could show?

Many thanks.

Hi Joyce, Thanks a lot for commenting. I hope your students enjoy the lesson. Look find lessons for specific levels or themes use either the search function or the category menu. All the best, Kieran

Hi Kieran, It has really been a wonderful contribution for ELT teachers especiallay in terms of entertaining the students with beatifully designed lesson plans. Thans a lot. Best, Ayhan Yavuz.

Hi Ayhan, Thanks very much for commenting and for the kind words. I’m happy you’ve got so much from the lessons. All the best, Kieran

I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your lessons.

Like so many other EFL teachers I’m sure, I use your website very frequently. Seeing this list just reminded me of a few of my favourites. I particularly enjoyed Fear of Flying and The Notebook, both so sweet!

I bought your book recently and have found it really useful for creating my own video based lessons, I’m sure I will be referring back to it for years to come.

Thanks again for the brilliant work that you do and for sharing so generously.

Thanks very much for commenting and for your kind words. I’m very happy you find the lessons so useful. Thank you for buying my book; it’s great to know you’re finding it useful. If you have time, would you mind writing a short review of it on Amazon? Positive reviews, help sales 🙂

All the best,

Kieran thanks a lot for short films, I’m writting form Chile and I’m working in a very little school and I need to know if thereis a possibility to download them because we don´t have internet connection in classrooms but I’d love to teach them with som of this films!

Regards, Macarena

Hi Macarena, If there’s a download button on the video in Vimeo then it’s fine to download. If not, it’s not legal to download videos without the permission of the director or producer. All the best, Kieran

WOW…thanks for the seven short film, it is very useful in my speaking class…please submit any lesson plan and short film more….

Hi Girik, Thanks for commenting. I’m happy you find the films useful. You can find almost 200 similar lesson plans at my resource website Film English http://film-english.com/ . Enjoy! Cheers, Kieran

Sorry! Comments are now closed.

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Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Movies — Movie Review

Essays on Movie Review

Once in a while, you’ll be asked to do a movie review essay. This task is a great training tool for enhancing critical thinking skills. Essays on movie review aim at presenting a film from the most important scenes, special effects, to exciting moments and may be accompanied by criticism. From an advertising perspective, such a paper is aimed at convincing readers to watch the movie in question. Your writing should let a reader draw a conclusion, i.e, whether the film is worth their time or if they should try something else. Most importantly, your opinion must be independent and accurate. But how can you create a perfect introduction if you don’t have the experience in this type of writing? Relax. A good online writer can do it for you. If you have an idea but need some guidance, simply ask for a professional outline or use evaluation essay examples for students for more insights.

Hook Examples for Movie Review Essays

"a cinematic masterpiece" hook.

"Prepare to be captivated by the sheer brilliance of this cinematic masterpiece. Explore how every frame, performance, and detail contributes to a visual and emotional spectacle."

"Beyond the Screen: Themes and Messages" Hook

"This film transcends entertainment, offering profound themes and powerful messages. Dive into the underlying ideas and social commentary that make it a thought-provoking experience."

"The Journey of Character Development" Hook

"Follow the compelling journey of characters who evolve throughout the film. Analyze their growth, conflicts, and relationships, making this movie a character-driven narrative."

"Visual Delights: Cinematography and Special Effects" Hook

"Be prepared to be visually stunned by the breathtaking cinematography and cutting-edge special effects. Explore how these elements enhance the storytelling and immerse the audience."

"Unforgettable Performances" Hook

"The cast delivers unforgettable performances that breathe life into the characters. Discuss standout acting moments, character dynamics, and the emotional impact of their roles."

"The Soundtrack: Music That Moves" Hook

"The film's soundtrack is more than just music; it's an integral part of the storytelling. Explore how the score enhances emotions, sets the tone, and complements the visuals."

"Cinematic Analysis: Directing and Editing" Hook

"Delve into the meticulous craftsmanship of the director and editor. Analyze their choices in pacing, sequencing, and storytelling techniques that make this film a cinematic triumph."

Toxin: a Critical Analysis of Robin Cook's Medical Thriller

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Forrest Gump: an Exploration of Life's Unpredictability and Human Resilience

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Critic’s Notebook

I Saw My Anxiety Reflected in ‘Inside Out 2.’ It Floored Me.

In a way that’s both cathartic and devastating, Pixar’s latest portrays how anxiety can take hold, our critic writes.

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By Maya Phillips

At the climax of Pixar’s “Inside Out 2,” Riley, a freshly pubescent teen with a gaggle of new personified emotions, becomes so overwhelmed with anxiety that she has a panic attack.

In the theater, I whispered to my friend that I’d forgotten to bring my panic attack medication. I’d said it as a joke — but at the sight of this anxious animated teenager, my whole body’s choreography changed. My muscles tensed. I pressed my right palm down hard to my chest and took a few deep yoga breaths, trying to cut off the familiar beginnings of an attack.

This depiction of how quickly anxiety can take hold was overwhelming. I saw my own experiences reflected in Riley’s. “Inside Out 2” felt personal to me in a way that was equally cathartic and devastating: It’s a movie that so intimately understands how my anxiety disorder upends my everyday life.

“Inside Out 2” picks up two years after the 2015 film “Inside Out,” as Riley is about to start high school. With puberty comes a group of new emotions, led by Anxiety. A manic orange sprite voiced by Maya Hawke, Anxiety bumps out the old emotions and inadvertently wreaks havoc on Riley’s belief system and self-esteem as she tries to manage the stress of a weekend hockey camp.

When an emotion takes over in the “Inside Out” movies, a control board in Riley’s mind changes to that feeling’s color; Anxiety’s takeover, however, is more absolute. She creates a stronghold in Riley’s imagination, where she forces mind workers to illustrate negative hypothetical scenarios for Riley’s future. Soon, Riley’s chief inner belief is of her inadequacy; the emotions hear “I’m not good enough” as a low, rumbling refrain in her mind.

I’m familiar with anxiety’s hold on the imagination; my mind is always writing the script to the next worst day of my life. It’s already embraced all possibilities of failure. And my anxiety’s ruthless demands for perfection often turn my thoughts into an unrelenting roll-call of self-criticisms and insecurities.

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Between the Temples

A cantor in a crisis of faith finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher re-enters his life as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student. A cantor in a crisis of faith finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher re-enters his life as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student. A cantor in a crisis of faith finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher re-enters his life as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student.

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• Dolly De Leon
• 1 User review
• 16 Critic reviews
• 82 Metascore
• 5 nominations

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• Trivia Premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah
• Goofs When Ben realizes he has been eating a cheeseburger, he spits it out, proclaiming that he is kosher. However, if he really kept kosher, he wouldn't have eaten meat in a restaurant that wasn't certified kosher.

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• August 23, 2024 (United States)
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