How to Write a Film Review

Writing a review is a common task in Cambridge English exams such as B2 First (FCE) and C1 Advanced (CAE). Films are a popular review topic because they are familiar, engaging, and give you plenty to write about. Learning how to write a good film review will help you organise your ideas clearly, express opinions naturally, use descriptive and evaluative language and score higher for Content, Organisation, and Language.

This lesson will show you how to structure a film review, what tone to use, and what examiners expect. At the end, you’ll find a model film review at C1 level.

Tone and Style of a Film Review

In Cambridge exams, a film review should be written in a neutral or semi-formal tone. This means not too informal, not too academic, but clear, balanced, and thoughtful.

A semi-formal tone helps the reader trust your opinion. You should focus on the quality of the film, not just personal feelings. Try to evaluate elements such as acting, direction, cinematography, music and theme

Avoid extreme or emotional language, and support your opinions with examples.

Before You Start Writing

Before you write a review, watch the film with an open mind. Try not to judge it too quickly or compare it constantly to other films. Pay attention to how the story develops, how the characters change, how the film makes you feel — and why.

Making brief notes while watching can help you organise your ideas later.

Structure of a Film Review

A clear structure is essential in exam writing. A film review is usually organised into five paragraphs:

1. Introduction
2. First body paragraph
3. Second body paragraph
4. Third body paragraph
5. Conclusion

Let’s look at each part in detail.

Introduction

The introduction should give the reader basic information about the film and your overall opinion.

You can start with an interesting fact, quote, or question, mention the film’s title, director, main actors, and release date and briefly say what you thought of the film.

The goal is to introduce the film and prepare the reader for your review.

First Body Paragraph – Plot and Characters

In the first body paragraph, focus on the story and characters.

You can:

• briefly describe the plot (without giving spoilers)
• introduce the main characters
• comment on the acting
• mention character development

Try to include specific examples to support your opinions.

Second Body Paragraph – Direction and Visuals

The second body paragraph should analyse another key aspect of the film, usually something you liked.

You might discuss the director’s style, cinematography and camera work, lighting, special effects, or symbolism and memorable scenes.

Explain how these elements contribute to the film’s atmosphere or message.

Third Body Paragraph – Weaknesses or Criticism

This paragraph should provide balance by mentioning what you did not like.

You could focus on weaknesses in the script, pacing problems, confusing plot points and underdeveloped characters.

Constructive criticism shows maturity and helps your review sound more objective.

Conclusion

The conclusion should summarise your opinion and clearly state whether you recommend the film.

You can briefly restate your overall impression, mention the film’s main strengths and weaknesses and say who would enjoy the film.

A strong conclusion leaves the reader with a clear final judgement.

Model Film Review (C1 Advanced Level)

Below is a high-level model film review suitable for C1 Advanced learners.

Inception (2010) – A Mind-Bending Masterpiece

From the moment the opening credits roll, Inception (2010), directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, captivates the audience with its complex narrative and striking visuals. Released in July 2010, this science-fiction thriller explores the idea of dream manipulation and challenges viewers to question the nature of reality itself.

The film follows Dom Cobb, a skilled thief who specialises in extracting secrets from people’s subconscious while they are dreaming. Cobb is offered a chance to clear his criminal record if he can achieve the impossible: planting an idea inside someone’s mind. As the story unfolds across multiple layers of dreams, the boundary between illusion and reality becomes increasingly blurred.

Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a powerful performance as Cobb, convincingly portraying his emotional conflict and inner guilt. The supporting cast, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Elliot Page, also perform strongly, each bringing depth and personality to their roles. The interactions between the characters help drive the plot forward and maintain tension throughout the film.

Christopher Nolan’s direction is both ambitious and precise. The cinematography by Wally Pfister is visually stunning, particularly in scenes that manipulate space and gravity. Practical effects, such as the famous rotating corridor scene, add realism to the film’s surreal dream worlds and make the experience even more immersive.

Despite its many strengths, the film is not without flaws. Some viewers may find the plot difficult to follow, and the heavy use of exposition can feel overwhelming at times. However, these weaknesses are largely outweighed by the film’s originality and intellectual depth.

In conclusion, Inception is a visually impressive and thought-provoking film that rewards careful viewing. While it may not appeal to everyone, it is highly recommended for fans of intelligent science-fiction and complex storytelling. Overall, it is a film that leaves a lasting impression.

Final Exam Tip

In a Cambridge film review, remember:

• answer the task fully
• organise your ideas clearly
• support opinions with examples
• use a neutral or semi-formal tone

Mastering this task can significantly improve your writing score.

Learn how to write a review for B2 First (FCE) here

Learn how to write a book review here