CAE/ CPE tips. How to write a film review

I recently received a letter from a CPE candidate asking for some tips on how to write a film review and what information to include and not to include in it. I hope you find this post useful.

Let's start from the basics. Whatever you do, don't tell us the end of the story! If there´s something film review readers hate is spoilers. When writing about the plot it is better to keep it brief and simple.

Regarding what information to include. I´d say the title and the main actors´names is a must. Then of course a little bit of the plot and something very important is to give your opinion. We want to know if you enjoyed the film and if you recommend it. Saying something about the director, the special effects and the soundtrack is something that would give your text a plus.

Another aspect to take into consideration especially when writing a review for an international exam is the level of the vocabulary you use in it. Obviously you want to show off and demonstrate the wide variety of words that you know, so avoid using any more than once and try to avoid too simple adjectives such as "good" or "interesting". I´ll give you an example of this:

Instead of saying "the film was interesting", say something like "the film was riveting".

And instead of saying "the acting was good",  say  something like "the actors´performance was outstanding"!

Need more tips?

See: Writing to impress the examiner (CAE/CPE)

CPE film review Practical Magic