ISSN 18178510 Іноземні мови №3/2012 (71)
М.Л. Писанко
Київський національний лінгвістичний університет
Навчання майбутніх філологів англійського
писемного мовлення на початковому етапі1
Film Review Writing
WARMUP
1. Look at the theatrical release posters. Match them with the
types of films in the box. Be attentive there are some extra
options.
1
5
7
horror documentary
action
comedy
historical drama
western
thriller
cartoon
crime
fantasy
2.
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Work in pairs. Ask and answer the following questions.
What films do you like or dislike?
Do you prefer to watch videos or go to the cinema?
Do you usually read film reviews before watching a new
film?
3. Read the extracts from different film reviews and match
them with the theatrical release posters above. Decide which
of them are written in formal/informal style. Underline the
words or phrases from the extracts to prove your answer.
A
It’s a stunning pairing. DiCaprio, who transforms
onscreen from a guileless kid to a crafty criminal, yet ever
a child he shows true fear and bewilderment when his
back is turned on a con; he flips a desk lamp on and off
out of nervousness and boredom; he demands that his foil
tell him the truth at all times. Hanks, meanwhile, is endearing
as the desk jockey with the Boston drawl on his first
awkward gig in the field, so serious-minded, so sensitive
that he vows to extradite Frank from unfriendly French
hands.
2
3
romance
4
6
B
The film opens with Anna Paquin as young Jane
Eyre, a strong-willed, outspoken but sensitive orphan raised
by hateful relatives. She’s soon off to Lowood, a strict girls’
school where a fire-and-brimstone headmaster (John Wood)
completes Jane’s darkly Dickensian upbringing. Amid the
daily drudgery, Jane befriends schoolmate Helen Burns
(Leanne Rowe) and teacher Miss Temple (Amanda Root),
both of whom show Jane kindness and stress the importance
of faith, education and independence. Helen’s untimely
death catalyzes Jane to work hard and trust in God in the
hope of a better existence post-mortem.
C With first rate performances from an A-list cast, it is one of the most
accessibly entertaining films of its kind in years. Colin Firth plays England’s
King George VI (father of the current Queen Elizabeth) who must overcome an
embarrassing stutter in order to lead his country through the trying times of
World War II. Geoffrey Rush is the Australian speech therapist that gives George
strength and training; as a result a lifelong friendship develops between the two.
1
Закінчення. Початок статті див. у №4 за 2010 рік
45
ISSN 18178510 Іноземні мови №3/2012 (71)
D Kristen Bell plays Beth, a Guggenheim Museum art
curator, disillusioned in love, who gets more than she
bargained for on a weekend trip to Rome for her sister’s
wedding. There she meets handsome and charming reporter
Nick (Josh Duhamel). What starts out as a promising
turnaround in her life becomes complicated when she
mistakenly believes she sees him kissing a girlfriend and
out of frustration grabs coins out of a fountain of love
(instead of throwing them in). She instantly finds herself
the object of affection for a quartet of looney guys who
were the original coin tossers and whose romantic desires
are suddenly reawakened by her spur-of-the-moment act.
With this group on her tail, Nick also decides to pursue
her, although she can’t be sure he’s doing it for real or
because she happened to retrieve one of his coins as well.
E This has to be one of my favourite and most watched films
ever. Just because I used to watch it so much when I was little
when it first came out and still love watching it now. It still manages
to make me smile and laugh, even though I do know all of the
words and even tone in which the words are said. I am always
shocked to hear if someone has not seen this film as I always just
assume that everyone has.
So just in case anyone has not seen it, the basic plot is that Daniel
(Robin Williams) and Miranda (Sally Field) are a couple who
decided to split up and get divorced and have three children, in
order to see his children Daniel dresses up as a woman and is hired
as their babysitter, cleaner and cook (something Daniel never
done at home when he was himself). Bring on lots of funny
moments, involving playing a broom like a guitar to “dude looks
like a lady” and setting himself on fire.
F Always near the top of greatest ever movie lists,
and it is near the top of my favorites list. It really is
as fantastic as everyone gives it credit for. Fantastic
acting, great storyline with many twists and turns
which could keep you guessing throughout the movie
Although it’s got thrills, chases, intrigue, and heck,
even war, but it will always be remembered for its
romance between Ilsa and her old flame Rick, and
the passions that re-ignite when they come back
together after a Paris love affair to remember. And
oh yeah, some stuff about war and Nazis, too.
G It is a claustrophobic film that makes you feel just as
isolated, desperate, and lonely as its characters. The look,
the feel, and the sensation of being in space seems real,
mostly thanks to some breathtaking set designs.
The film follows the 7 crewmen of the Nostromo, a
commercial spaceship carrying minerals back to Earth,
when a distress signal sends them to an alien planet to
investigate. The crew, led by Dallas (Tom Skerritt) finds a
dead alien pilot on a ship that had crashed there many
years ago. The crew also discovers hundreds of cocoon
like pods, and out of one pod springs an alien fetus that
latches onto the face of a crewmember.
46
4. Look through extracts again. Match each extract with the
source they are taken from by writing AG on the lines
provided.
ƒ youth magazine ______________________________
ƒ film magazine that examines films
films_____________
ƒ composition _________________________________
Discuss your answers in pairs.
STUDY THE MODEL
5. Read the sample of the film review to consider its structure
and style. Match points 14 with the paragraphs AD.
1) opinion of acting, screenplay
F
2) summary and recommendation
F
3) background information (name of the film and
directors, genre)
F
4) plot and main characters
F
Babe
A
A delightful film based on Dick
KingSmith’s story “The SheepPig”.
Starring James Cromwell and Magda
Szubanski. Australian director and
producer George Miller collaborates
with director Chris Noonan in
adapting the tale by British author
KingSmith, who is one of the world’s
leading children’s novelists with 70
titles in print, all involving animals.
B This fairytale follows a pig that struggles to find a purpose
in life beyond that of becoming a holiday meal. In this live
action movie, dogs, sheep, a duck, a cat and the pig, Babe, all
talk. Narrated chapter by chapter, with singing mice doing
the titles, “Babe” tells the story of an orphaned piglet who’s
won by a farmer at a county fair. As Babe meets the other
farm animals, none of which are pigs, he struggles with an
identity crisis. Although likable folks, Babe’s owners, the
Hoggetts (James Cromwell and Magda Szubanski) are
oblivious to their animals’ intelligence and secret lives,
leading to many comical scenes in which the animals take
charge.
C Geared to parents with young children (the very youngest
might be upset by a few scenes involving animal death), the
film boasts technical effects that are realistic for audiences of
all ages; the dubbed voices of the speaking animals
synchronize perfectly with their lip movements. The
heartwarming “Babe” does for pigs what “Lassie” did for
dogs: It leaves you cheering for more.
D To sum up “Babe” is an amazing film which is suitable
for both children and adults. It is definitely a movie you will
want to add to your video collection.
From www.boxoffice.com
ISSN 18178510 Іноземні мови №3/2012 (71)
6. Read the paragraphs AD from a film review and put them
into correct order.
Meet the Fockers
By Jarrod S., Marlow, OK
A It is time for Pam to meet
Greg’s parents, but not only
will Pam meet the Fockers, her
parents will, too. The movie
opens with Greg and Pam
flying to Pam’s parents. Little
do they know that Jack has
bought a new motor home and
decides to drive everyone to
the Fockers. It is a journey that
never has a dull moment, and
the fun continues as they arrive
at the Fockers, where Bernie
is a little “friendly” with
everyone, always looking for
a hug.
b) Give your overall reaction to the film as well as your
opinion on the quality of the film. Also include your
recommendations for potential viewers.
c) You will need to include the following: name of the
film, prominent stars of the film, basic setting (time
and place), and type of the film ( comedy, adventure,
drama, etc.)
d) You will need to write a plot summary for the movie.
Do not reveal the ending. Discuss at least 5 events and
be sure to cover the entire scope of the movie, except
the very end.
Now you have a guideline to help you get started in writ
ing a review.
8. Here are some reviews taken from a youth online magazine
Teenink. Look through them and decide whether they have
all necessary parts and information.
The Devil Wears Prada
By Milana B., Gainesville
B As we all know, “Meet the Parents” was one of the most
hilarious movies of 2000. After the humor shock was over,
the longawaited “Meet the Fockers” arrived. Returning in
this sequel are Ben Stiller (Greg), Robert De Niro (Jack),
Blythe Danner (Dina) and Teri Polo (Pam). New cast
members are Dustin Hoffman as Bernie Focker, Barbra
Streisand as Roz Focker and Spencer and Bradley Pickren as
Little Jack.
C
Under the direction of Jay Roach, the film has great
scenery, humor and funfilled times. “Meet the Fockers” is
seriously a mustsee movie.
D Everyone knows it is hard to beat an original, but I must
say, this one does. At 115 minutes, this film keeps you on the
edge of your seat with gutbusting jokes in every scene. It is a
comedy that makes you laugh until your stomach aches.
From www.teenink.com
Read the review again and label the information below
1 the background information about the film (BI)
2 the summary of the plot (SP)
3 the writer’s opinion (WO)
4 the summary of the writer’s opinion and recommendation
(SO&R)
COMPOSITION DEVELOPMENT
7. Here are some Tips on how to write a film review from
MovieFilmReview.com. Look through and match them with
paragraphs 14 (ex.6).
a) Discuss one aspect of filmmaking. You may choose
from acting, direction, editing, costume design, set
design, photography, background music, or anything
else you may think of. Be sure that you are specific
and cite examples from the movie.
Based on the 2003 bestseller, The DevilWears Prada out
runs the many mediocre films showcased.
An aspiring young journalist in New York City finds a job
as the second assistant to the editorinchief of the fashion
magazine Runway. Plunged into the fashion subculture she
never understood, or respected, Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway)
is determined to come out on top and not allow her boss,
Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), to get the best of her. With
the help of coworkers Nigel (Stanley Tucci), Emily (Emily
Blunt), and wellknown writer Christian Thompson (Simon
Baker), Andy remakes her image and begins to excel. Though
the job comes with many perks (parties, celebrities and free
designer duds), the hautecouture lifestyle has its downside,
and as Andrea spirals into the culture of Prada and Gucci, her
friends and boyfriend (Adrian Grenier) are confused and
appalled by the quick, graceful change in downtoearth Andy.
Though the storyline is clichй, the actors bring it life and
honesty, portraying various points of view on the coveted fashion
culture. You won’t leave the theater disillusioned about the
lifestyle. Rather, you’ll get a glimpse into a culture that “everyone
wants” and the many sacrifices necessary to achieve it. David
Frankel does a magnificent job in casting and directing “The
Devil Wears Prada,” one of the few good films this summer.
From www.teenink.com
47
ISSN 18178510 Іноземні мови №3/2012 (71)
Pride & Prejudice
By Ashlee W., Colleyville, TX
Captivating is the only
word to describe Keira
Knightley’s
2005
performance in “Pride &
Prejudice.” By the time the
first chords of the ivory
pianoforte float melodically
through the room and the
excited babble of new
rumors comes into focus,
this adaptation has already
ensnared an eager audience
and proves that no matter
how much time passes, this
clever romance will always
be in demand.
Fans of Austen’s popular book will not feel disappointed.
Although the story is condensed, the wellwritten script is
true to the wit and humor Austen perfected two hundred years
ago. The allstar cast will not disappoint movie or book
fanatics, either.
In the movie, the proud, strongwilled Elizabeth finds
herself single at the age of 20. As she dances at balls with her
four sisters and watches the eldest begin the frustrating and
exciting endeavor of courtship, Elizabeth finds herself with a
dilemma of her own, and his name is Mr. Darcy. Through
raised voices and humorous sparring, viewers experience an
exciting and amusing rollercoaster ride through the turmoil
of life and the truths of love.
Although the uproar abroad about the “schmaltzy”
American ending caused some criticism among American
critics, the only real qualm about this movie is that it ends
too soon. After a pleasant dose of good humor and satirical
wit, nearly everyone (even the seemingly indifferent male
viewers) will exit the theater smiling and talking animatedly
about this wonderful twohour experience. To all the cast and
creators of this captivating film, I repeat Mr. Darcy “You
have bewitched me, body and soul.”
From www.teenink.com
Sweet November
Unknown
Are you tired of
watching simple love stories
with happy endings? If so,
“Sweet November” is
perfect for you. This movie
tells of a simple twist of fate
when Nelson Moss (Keanu
Reeves) and Sara Deever
(Charlize Theron) meet at
the department of motor
vehicles.
1
48
Nelson is a workaholic, while Sara is a freespirit. She
becomes intrigued by the idea of helping Nelson relax and
enjoy life because she has a passion for spreading joy into the
lives of others. Sara’s idea of fun is a day outdoors walking
her neighbour’s dog. On the other hand, Nelson’s day is filled
with advertising meetings, coffee and bosses. Sara comes into
Nelson’s life at the perfect time just as he simultaneously
loses his job and girlfriend. Unwilling to commit, Nelson
compromises and agrees to live with Sara for one month.
One month is all Sara needs to transform this tense
workaholic into a compassionate and relaxed person who
enjoys life. November is their special month, and Nelson is a
changed person. The two fall in love, and Nelson finds it hard
to tear himself away from Sara at the end of the month. A
tragic discovery about Sara leaves Nelson lonely, heartbroken
and confused.
I suggest “Sweet November” to those who like sad and
unpredictable endings. It is an inspirational movie that shows
how people can fall in love in a short time. Although it isn’t
realistic, it makes you ponder the true meaning of life and
think about what truly makes people happy.
From www.teenink.com
9. Choose any you like most and complete it with proper
information. You may use the Internet if you need.
VOCABULARY
10.Let’s consider the language we can use while writing a review.
Work in pairs. Look through the adjectives and modifying
adverbs in the table below.2
Base adjectives
good bad silly funny attractive exiting surprising
interesting
Use modifying adverbs:
very pretty a bit extremely rather quite
Strong adjectives
brilliant
pathetic
ridiculous hilarious
stunning
thrilling amazing fascinating spectacular dreadful
Use modifying adverbs: absolutely completely totally
Now cross out the adjectives which don’t go with these
adverbs. Then match film making words ag below with the
expressions 17 above.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
a bit brilliant / monotonous
absolutely brilliant / good
totally stunning / attractive
quite good / pathetic
very interesting / amazing
absolutely bad / dreadful
totally exciting / spectacular
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
acting
directing
final scene
plot
screenplay
soundtrack
special effects
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
11.Here is a film review on one of Hollywood classics. There
are some gaps in it. Read the review and fill in the gaps with
the phrases in the box.
У вправі використані матеріали з навчальнометодичного комплексу Success [2].
ISSN 18178510 Іноземні мови №3/2012 (71)
loosely based on
the opening scene
an essential
movie to watch
during the movie epic love story
directed by
the costumes and setting
it has remained
Dr. Zhivago
By Katie A., Colleyville, TX
“Dr. Zhivago” is the 1965
_______________ set during the
Russian
Revolution
_________________ David
Lean, starring Omar Sharif and
Julie Christie. The film is
______________ on the famous
novel of the same name by Boris
Pasternak. ______________
popular for decades
Yuri Zhivago (Omar Sharif) is a poet and doctor; Lara
Antipova (Julie Christie) is a mysterious beauty. The two keep
meeting at the wrong time in the wrong situation and develop
a relationship even though they are married to others. This
prompts the question: if they had met earlier, would they
have had a life together?
Every character is intricately woven into the plot, creating
dramatic twists. ______________ you follow the ups and
downs of Zhivago. ______________ is told by his brother,
who, many years after Zhivago’s death, is searching for his
missing child; with this hint, the movie flashes back and the
whole story is told leading up to the present. _____________
are completely authentic, bringing to life Russian architecture
and culture. The harsh winter setting helps to intensify the
depressing feelings of the characters. Another common effect
used to portray the characters’ emotions is the excellent score
that provides a common thread throughout the movie and
escalates the intense feelings between the characters.
“Dr. Zhivago” is a heartbreaking tearjerker with blunt
images of what life was like during the Russian Revolution
with raw emotions between Yuri Zhivago and Lara. It is
____________ to watch for the true movie fan, who will be
able to appreciate every moment.
From www.teenink.com (adapted)
12.Read the review again and underline the examples of
adjectives and modifying adverbs used to express writer’s
opinion. Decide which of them are used to describe:
ƒ the visual imagery
ƒ the acting
ƒ the atmosphere
ƒ the plot
REFERENCE1
PARAGPRAPH 1
PARAGPRAPH 2
PARAGPRAPH 3
PARAGPRAPH 4
REMEMBER TO:
• Give some background information: name of the
film and directors, genre, prizes won.
• If relevant, mention where and when the film is set.
• Describe the plot and the main characters.
• Use present tenses.
• Don’t give too many details.
• Don’t say what happens at the end.
• Give your opinion of some different aspects of
the film: acting, screenplay, soundtrack, directing.
• Summarise your opinions.
• Make a recommendation.
• Use a variety of adjectives (strong adjectives
and modifying adverbs).
• Use either formal or informal style but don’t mix
them.
• Match the tone of the review with the style of the
film. For example, a humorous writing style would
work well for a comedy, whereas a more serious
tone would be good for writing a drama review.
14.When you are through check yourself.
When you have written your reviews, tick the boxes in the
checklist.
A Checklist
F I have written a review, not a composition.
F I have used an appropriate style.
F I have mentioned the background information of the film.
F I have described the plot and main characters.
F I haven’t given away the ending.
F I have summarised my opinions and made recommendations.
F I have checked my spelling / grammar / punctuation carefully.
Викладені у статті теоретичні засади щодо навчання
студентів вищих мовних навчальних закладів англійсь
кого писемного мовлення на початковому етапі та пред
ставлені практичні розробки навчання написання статті
до молодіжного журналу, звіту і відгуку на перегляну
тий фільм можуть бути використані викладачами під
час практичних занять з англійської мови на початкових
курсах, а також служити основою для створення власних
практичних розробок з метою навчання інших жанрів
писемного мовлення.
1.
2.
PRACTISE YOUR WRITING SKILLS
3.
13.You are the TV and cinema reviewer for your university
magazine. Choose any film you have seen recently and write
a review.
ƒ Make a plan with clear paragraphs. You may use the
Reference Below and Tips from ex.7.
ƒ Use the language from ex.10.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
ВИКОРИСТАНI ДЖЕРЕЛA
Mann M., TayloreKnowles S. Macmillan Exam Skills
for Russia: Reading and Writing / Malcom Mann, Steve
TayloreKnowles, Series Adviser: Elena Klekovkina. –
Macmillan, 2006. – 223 p.
McKinlay S., Hastings B. Success. Intermediate Student’s
Book / Stuart McKinlay, Bob Hastings. – Longman, 2007.
– 144 p.
White L., Fricker R. Success. Intermediate Workbook /
Lindsay White, Rod Fricker. – Longman, 2007. – 120 p.
www.beyondhollywood.com
www.boxoffice.com
www.letsgotothemovies7.com
www.moviefilmreview.com
www.teenink.com
Отримано 22.08.2012
У вправі використані матеріали з навчальнометодичного комплексу Success [2].
49