“Films/ Movies” là chủ đề thường xuyên xuất hiện trong IELTS Speaking Part 1. Chủ đề “Phim ảnh” chắc hẳn sẽ dễ nói hơn với các bạn vì đây là một chủ đề quen thuộc chúng ta gặp và tiếp xúc trong cuộc sống hằng ngày.

Bạn có hay đi xem phim không? Bạn xem những thể loại phim nào? Bạn thích xem phim nước ngoài hay trong nước hơn?... Sau đây chúng mình hãy cùng nhau tìm hiểu cách trả lời cho những câu hỏi này trong IELTS Speaking nhé!

Speaking part 1 Films/Movies

Question 1: Do you like watching films?

Answer: Definitely, I love watching films, all genres of them. I try to absorb and enjoy as many different kinds of films as I can, whether it be the blockbuster Avengers: End Game, emtional roller coaster-like Parasite, or visual effects such as The Lion King. Film is a medium that can transport you to radically different worlds and environments. That’s why I and so many others love it.

genre /ˈʒɑːnrə/ n thể loại
absorb /əbˈsɔːrb/ v mê mẩn
blockbuster /ˈblɑːkbʌstər/ n phim bom tấn
emotional roller coaster /ɪˈməʊʃənl ˈrəʊlə ˈkəʊstə(r)/ n phr cảm xúc thăng trầm

Question 2: Do you prefer foreign films or films made in your country?

Answer: Well, I would say both, the only thing that matters is that the story should be good. I like watching films with unexpected plot twist. The plot twist plays a significant role in the success of a movie. It is the factor that captures the audience’s attention and lead them from surprise to another surprise. So, for me the story matters, everything else is secondary.

plot twist /ˈplɑːt twɪst/ n bướ́c ngoặt cốt truyện (nút thắt bất ngờ)
capture /ˈkæptʃər/ v thu hút, lưu lại
secondary /ˈsekənderi/ adj thứ yếu

CÁC THỂ LOẠI FILMS/ MOVIES

adventure /ədˈventʃər/ n phim phiêu lưu
action /ˈækʃn/ n phim hành động
television drama /ˈtelɪvɪʒn ˈdrɑːmə/ n phr phim bộ
tv show /ˌtiːˈviː ʃəʊ/ n phr show truyền hình
comedy /ˈkɑːmədi/ n phim hài
fantasy /ˈfæntəsi/ n phim giả tưởng
historical movie /hɪˈstɔːrɪkl ˈmuːvi/ n phr phim cổ trang/lịch sử
horror /ˈhɔːrər/ n phim kinh dị
sci-fi /ˈsaɪ faɪ/ n phim khoa học viễn tưởng
detective /dɪˈtektɪv/ n phim trinh thám
cartoon / animation /kɑːrˈtuːn/ /ˌænɪˈmeɪʃn/ n phim hoạt hình
live-action /ˌlaɪv ˈækʃn/ n/adj phim chuyển thể người đóng (hoạt hình vẽ lại thành người đóng)

3. Do you like to watch films?

Definitely! I really enjoy watching movies. They're a fantastic source of entertainment and relaxation for me. Moreover, movies frequently provide valuable knowledge about various cultures, viewpoints, and concepts, which I find both informative and stimulating.

entertainment and relaxation /ˌentəˈteɪnmənt ənd ˌriːlækˈseɪʃn/ n phr sự giải trí và thư giãn
informative and stimulating /ɪnˈfɔːmətɪv ənd ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/ adj phr giàu thông tin và kích thích tư duy

4. What kinds of movies do you like best?

When it comes to movies, I prefer dramas and suspense films. Dramas allow me to explore complex human emotions and relationships, while suspense films keep me engaged with their thrilling narratives and plot twists.

suspense films /səˈspens fɪlmz/ n phr phim giật gân, hồi hộp
thrilling narratives /ˈθrɪlɪŋ ˈnærətɪvz/ n phr những cốt truyện đầy kịch tính

5. How often do you go to the cinema to watch a movie?

I don't go to the cinema very often, but I still enjoy the occasional movie theater experience. Nowadays, I mostly watch movies at home through streaming platforms. However, I try to make it to the cinema for special or highly anticipated films.

occasional movie theater experience /əˈkeɪʒənl ˈmuːvi ˈθɪətə(r) ɪkˈspɪəriəns/ n phr trải nghiệm thỉnh thoảng đi xem phim ở rạp
highly anticipated films /ˈhaɪli ænˈtɪsɪpeɪtɪd fɪlmz/ n phr những bộ phim được mong đợi cao

6. What was the first film that you watched?

The first movie I ever watched was "The Lion King." It was a classic Disney animated film that made a profound impression on me. The vibrant animation, memorable characters, and compelling storyline created a truly magical cinematic experience. Even to this day, it remains one of my all-time favorite movies.

profound impression /prəˈfaʊnd ɪmˈpreʃn/ n phr ấn tượng sâu sắc
compelling storyline /kəmˈpelɪŋ ˈstɔːrilaɪn/ n phr cốt truyện hấp dẫn, lôi cuốn

Do you like to watch movies alone or with your friends?

I would say both actually. When I watch movies alone, I can fully focus on the film and enjoy it at my own pace. On the other hand, watching movies with friends adds a fun and social aspect to the experience. It really depends on my mood and the type of movie I want to watch.

at my own pace /æt maɪ əʊn peɪs/ idiom theo tốc độ/nhịp độ riêng của mình
social aspect /ˈsəʊʃl ˈæspekt/ n phr khía cạnh xã hội, giao lưu

Do you prefer foreign films or films made in your country?

I tend to lean towards films made in my country because they have a special significance to me. They capture the nuances of our culture and address societal themes that I can easily relate to. Watching these films provides a sense of familiarity and a deeper connection to the stories being depicted, making the viewing experience more enjoyable for me.

capture the nuances /ˈkæptʃə(r) ðə ˈnjuːɑːnsɪz/ v phr nắm bắt/lột tả được những sắc thái tinh tế
societal themes /səˈsaɪətl θiːmz/ n phr các chủ đề về xã hội

Speaking Part 2 Movies

Công thức cho Part 2 – I.S.O:

Một bài Part 2 theo từng mục như này sẽ phân chia rõ ràng, mạch lạc hơn:

Introduction (Giới thiệu)

Story (Câu chuyện)

Opinion (Quan điểm riêng)

Describe a movie you watched and enjoyed recently

  • When and where you watched it
  • Who you watched it with
  • What it was about

And explain why you watched this movie

* Outline

Introduction

Movie: Interstellar (or a recent film you enjoyed).

Significance: A visually stunning masterpiece that explores the depths of human love and the mysteries of the cosmos.

Story

When/Where: Watched it at home during a rainy weekend, seeking something thought-provoking.

Who: Watched it with my younger brother, who is also a science-fiction enthusiast.

Plot: A story about a group of astronauts searching for a new home for humanity, highlighting the concept of time dilation and the bond between a father and his daughter.

Opinion

Why I enjoyed it:

The breathtaking cinematography and the powerful musical score.

The emotional resonance: It made me reflect on the importance of family connections even across vast distances.

* Sample Answer

If I were to talk about a motion picture that has truly left an indelible impression on me, it would be the sci-fi epic, Interstellar. I watched this masterpiece just last weekend in the comfort of my own home, specifically looking for something that would be both intellectually stimulating and emotionally poignant.

I enjoyed this cinematic experience with my younger brother, who has always been a die-hard fan of space exploration. The movie follows the journey of a group of astronauts who venture through a wormhole in a desperate attempt to ensure humanity's survival. Beyond the high-concept physics and the daunting scale of space, the film is essentially a deeply human story about the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter, transcending both time and space.

I found the movie absolutely captivating for several reasons. Firstly, the cinematography was nothing short of spectacular; it managed to make the vast, cold emptiness of space feel surprisingly intimate. Furthermore, the musical score by Hans Zimmer was hauntingly beautiful, which heightened the emotional stakes of every scene. Most importantly, it wasn't just another action flick. The film resonated with me on a personal level, reminding me that even in the face of insurmountable odds, human love is the most powerful force in the universe. It prompted me to reflect on my own life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones.

indelible impression /ɪnˈdeləbl ɪmˈpreʃn/ idiom dáu ấn không thể phai mờ
poignant /ˈpɔɪnjənt/ adj sâu sắc, thấm thía, gây xúc động mạnh
die-hard fan /ˌdaɪ ˈhɑːd fæn/ idiom người hâm mộ cuồng nhiệt
unbreakable bond /ʌnˈbreɪkəbl bɒnd/ collocation mối liên kết không thể phá vỡ
captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ adj làm say đắm, quyến rũ
hauntingly beautiful /ˈhɔːntɪŋli ˈbjuːtɪfl/ collocation đẹp mốt cách ám ảnh, day dứt
resonate with /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/ v phr gây ấn tượng hoặc tạo cảm xúc đồng cảm
insurmountable odds /ˌɪnsəˈmaʊntəbl ɒdz/ n phr những khó khăn không thể vượt qua

Describe a movie you watched recently that you felt disappointed about

  • What it is
  • What it is about
  • Why you decided to watch it

And explain why you felt disappointed about it

* Outline

Introduction

Movie: The Last Horizon (a hypothetical sci-fi film).

Significance: A highly anticipated production that ultimately failed to live up to the hype.

Story

What it is about: An epic space adventure focused on a mission to find a new home for humanity.

Why I decided to watch it: I was captivated by the visually stunning trailer and the involvement of a renowned director and A-list cast.

Opinion Why I felt disappointed: The narrative was remarkably shallow, the character development was lacking, and the ending felt forced and illogical, making it a classic example of "style over substance."

* Sample Answer

If I were to describe a recent cinematic experience that left me feeling rather underwhelmed, I would have to point to the movie The Last Horizon. Given the amount of hype surrounding its release and the A-list cast attached to the project, I walked into the theater with extremely high expectations.

The movie is a space adventure that follows a group of astronauts on a mission to secure a new home for humanity in a distant galaxy. I decided to watch this film primarily because of its trailer, which was masterfully edited to suggest a gripping, thought-provoking sci-fi thriller. I had been eagerly awaiting its release for months, convinced it would be a landmark in modern science fiction.

However, the reality was quite disappointing. To be frank, the movie suffered from a thinly-veiled script that relied far too heavily on visual spectacle while completely neglecting character development. The pacing was painfully sluggish, making a two-hour film feel like an eternity. What frustrated me the most was the final act, which felt rushed and illogical, leaving many of the central plot points entirely unresolved. It felt like the filmmakers were so focused on creating "moments" for the trailer that they forgot to weave a coherent story. Ultimately, it was a classic case of style over substance, and it left me feeling like I had wasted both my time and my money.

underwhelmed /ˌʌndəˈwelmd/ adj không ấn tượng, thất vọng
hype /haɪp/ n sự quảng cáo rầm rộ, thổi phồng quá mức
a-list cast /ˌeɪ lɪst kɑːst/ n phr dàn diễn viên hạng a, rất nổi tiếng
landmark /ˈlændmɑːk/ n một cột mốc, sự kiện quan trọng
thinly-veiled /ˌθɪnli ˈveɪld/ adj kịch bản hời hợt, thiếu chiều sâu
sluggish /ˈslʌɡɪʃ/ adj chậm chạp, uể oải
illogical /ɪˈlɒdʒɪkl/ adj thiếu logic, không hợp lý
style over substance /staɪl ˈəʊvə(r) ˈsʌbstəns/ idiom đẹp mã nhưng rỗng tuếch, chú trọng hình thức hơn nội dung

Speaking Part 3 Movies

Công thức cho Part 3 – A.R.E.C:

AREC giúp bạn triển khai theo hướng khai thác chủ đề, thảo luận chuyên sâu và mạch lạc:

Answer

(Trả lời trực tiếp)

Reason

(Lý do)

Example

(Ví dụ)

Consequence

(Kết quả)

Disappointing Movie

1. Do you believe in movie reviews?

A I think they are useful as a general guide, but they shouldn't be the final word.
R Reviews are highly subjective, reflecting the critic's personal taste rather than a universal standard.
E I might avoid a movie because of a bad review, only to find later that I actually enjoyed the plot.
C Ultimately, personal experience is the best judge, so reviews should inform rather than dictate our choices.

I view movie reviews as a useful reference point rather than an absolute authority. Because the appreciation of art is deeply subjective, a critic’s negative assessment might simply reflect a mismatch in personal taste rather than the objective quality of the film. While reviews can help us filter out lackluster productions, I believe the most rewarding approach is to form one's own opinion by watching the movie firsthand.

useful reference point /ˈjuːsfl ˈrefrəns pɔɪnt/ n phr điểm tham chiếu hữu ích
filter out lackluster productions /ˈfɪltər aʊt ˈlækˌlʌstə(r) prəˈdʌkʃnz/ v phr lọc bỏ những tác phẩm kém chất lượng/thiếu sự hấp dẫn

2. What are the different types of films in your country?

A The local film market has diversified significantly, covering a wide spectrum of genres.
R Filmmakers are experimenting with more complex narratives to cater to a broader range of audience preferences.
E We see a steady output of commercial blockbusters like action thrillers and comedies, alongside a growing number of independent, more artistic dramas.
C This variety ensures that there is something for every demographic, which helps the industry grow.

The film landscape in my country has become remarkably diverse, ranging from mainstream commercial hits to more nuanced, independent projects. While high-octane action movies and slapstick comedies continue to dominate the box office, there is a clear trend toward genre experimentation, with directors exploring psychological thrillers, historical dramas, and poignant social commentaries that address contemporary issues.

mainstream commercial hits /ˈmeɪnstriːm kəˈmɜːʃl hɪts/ n phr những phim thương mại thành công/đại chúng
genre experimentation /ˈʒɑːnrə ɪkˌsperɪmenˈteɪʃn/ n phr sự thử nghiệm các thể loại phim

3. Are historical films popular in your country? Why?

A Yes, they hold a special place in the hearts of local audiences.
R There is a strong desire to reconnect with national heritage and understand the cultural roots that shaped modern society.
E Movies that depict legendary battles or the lives of historical figures often draw large crowds, especially during national holidays.
C These films serve not just as entertainment, but as a bridge to the past, fostering a sense of national identity.

Historical films are quite popular because they resonate with the audience's inherent pride in national heritage. People are drawn to these stories as they offer a window into the past, helping to contextualize current cultural identity. When executed with high production value, these movies transform dry historical facts into compelling human narratives, which not only educate the younger generation but also instill a profound sense of cultural continuity.

inherent pride in national heritage /ɪnˈhɪərənt praɪd ɪn ˈnæʃnəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ n phr niềm tự hào vốn có về di sản dân tộc
compelling human narratives /kəmˈpelɪŋ ˈhjuːmən ˈnærətɪvz/ n phr những câu chuyện nhân văn đầy lôi cuốn

4. Do you think films with famous actors or actresses would be more popular?

A While star power is a powerful marketing tool, it is not the only factor for popularity.
R Audiences are increasingly prioritizing a strong, unique storyline over the cast list alone.
E A movie with a weak script will fail regardless of how many A-list celebrities are featured.
C Therefore, fame might guarantee an initial audience, but the quality of the content determines long-term success.

Undeniably, casting well-known stars acts as a magnet for initial interest, ensuring a high turnout on opening weekend. However, star power alone rarely sustains a film's success. Modern audiences are quite discerning and often prioritize a coherent, high-quality narrative over star appeal. If the script is weak, even the most legendary actor cannot rescue the film, proving that content remains the ultimate driver of long-term popularity.

magnet for initial interest /ˈmæɡnət fər ɪˈnɪʃl ˈɪntrêst/ n phr thỏi nam châm thu hút sự quan tâm ban đầu
coherent, high-quality narrative /kəʊˈhɪərənt haɪ ˈkwɒləti ˈnærətɪv/ n phr câu chuyện mạch lạc, chất lượng cao

5. Why are Japanese animated films so popular?

A They are renowned for their exceptional storytelling and unique aesthetic style.
R Unlike much Western animation, they often explore mature, complex themes that appeal to adults as well as children.
E Works like those from Studio Ghibli, which blend fantasy with deep emotional resonance, have a universal appeal.
C This depth allows them to transcend cultural boundaries and find a global audience.

Japanese animated films have achieved global acclaim because they offer a unique blend of artistic depth and mature storytelling. Rather than being strictly confined to 'children's entertainment,' these films frequently explore existential questions, human emotions, and complex moral dilemmas. This sophisticated approach to animation allows them to captivate a multi-generational audience and create an emotional connection that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers.

unique blend of artistic depth and mature storytelling /juːˈniːk blend əv ɑːˈtɪstɪk depθ ənd məˈtʃʊə(r) ˈstɔːritelɪŋ/ n phr sự kết hợp độc đáo giữa chiều sâu nghệ thuật và cách kể chuyện trưởng thành.
sophisticated approach to animation /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd əˈpraʊtʃ tu ˌænɪˈmeɪʃn/ n phr cách tiếp cận tinh tế đối với hoạt hình

6. Should the director pay a lot of money to famous actors?

A It depends on the director's vision and the project's overall budget.
R Paying high fees can secure a brand name, but it may also drain the budget for production, visual effects, or script development.
E Some films might succeed by allocating their funds to revolutionary cinematography instead of high-priced actors.
C A director needs to strike a balance; prioritizing cast costs over production quality can sometimes backfire if the movie ends up feeling hollow.

This is a delicate balancing act for any director. While a famous face can guarantee visibility, prioritizing salary over production value can lead to a lopsided film that lacks depth in other areas. I believe that funds should be allocated based on the project's specific needs; sometimes, investing in technical excellence or creative scriptwriting is a far more strategic move than paying astronomical fees to a single star.

balancing act /ˈbælənsɪŋ ækt/ n phr sự cân bằng (giữa các yếu tố)
technical excellence or creative scriptwriting /ˈteknɪkl ˈeksələns ɔː(r) kriˈeɪtɪv ˈskrɪptˌraɪtɪŋ/ n phr sự xuất sắc về kỹ thuật hoặc kịch bản sáng tạo

Enjoyable Movie

1. Why do people prefer to watch movies in the cinema?

A Watching movies in a cinema provides an immersive experience that a home screen cannot replicate.
R The combination of a massive screen, high-quality sound system, and the shared energy of an audience enhances the emotional impact.
E Experiencing a blockbuster's intense action sequences or a horror movie's suspenseful atmosphere feels much more powerful in a dark, dedicated theater.
C This makes cinema-going a special event rather than just a routine activity, justifying the extra cost and effort.

The preference for cinemas stems from the immersive sensory experience that simply cannot be replicated at home. The sheer scale of the screen combined with state-of-the-art surround sound creates a visceral impact, making viewers feel as though they are part of the unfolding story. Moreover, sharing this environment with an audience adds a unique social energy; the collective reaction to a plot twist or an action sequence makes the experience feel much more significant and memorable.

immersive sensory experience /ɪˈmɜːsɪv ˈsensəri ɪkˈspɪəriəns/ n phr trải nghiệm giác quan đắm chìm
visceral impact /ˈvɪsərəl ˈɪmpækt/ n phr tác động mạnh mẽ đến cảm xúc/bản năng (thực sự "chạm" đến người xem)

2. Do you think successful movies should have well-known actors or actresses in leading roles?

A While star power is a major draw, it is not the sole determinant of a movie's success.
R A strong script and directorial vision are often more critical to the overall quality of the film.
E Many critically acclaimed movies have succeeded with lesser-known actors because the story was compelling enough on its own.
C Relying solely on big names can sometimes overshadow a poor-quality production, but a talented newcomer can create a breakout hit.

While casting A-list celebrities is a strategic marketing tactic to guarantee initial viewership, it is certainly not the only path to success. Ultimately, audiences are increasingly drawn to a coherent, gripping narrative rather than just the faces on the poster. A film anchored by a brilliant script and a visionary director can turn relatively unknown actors into global stars, demonstrating that talent and storytelling depth are frequently more pivotal than brand recognition.

strategic marketing tactic /strəˈtiːdʒɪk ˈmɑːkɪtɪŋ ˈtæktɪk/ n phr thủ thuật tiếp thị chiến lược
pivotal than brand recognition /ˈpɪvətl ðæn brænd ˌrekəɡˈnɪʃn/ adj phr mang tính quyết định hơn là việc dựa vào sự nổi tiếng của thương hiệu (tên tuổi diễn viên)

3. Do you think only well-known directors can create the best movies?

A No, great art can come from anyone, regardless of their established reputation.
R Emerging directors often bring fresh perspectives and innovative techniques that challenge traditional filmmaking norms.
E Many modern independent films that win major awards are directed by individuals who were unknown just a few years prior.
C This openness to new voices ensures that the film industry remains creative and continues to evolve.

Absolutely not. While established directors have a proven track record, emerging filmmakers often bring much-needed innovation and fresh perspectives that push the boundaries of cinematic art. The history of film is filled with breakthrough directors who stunned audiences with their debut works. By welcoming new talent, the industry avoids stagnation and ensures that a diverse range of creative voices can continue to shape the evolution of storytelling.

proven track record /ˈpruːvn træk ˈrekɔːd/ n phr bề dày thành tích đã được kiểm chứng
breakthrough directors /ˈbreɪkθruː dəˈrektəz/ n phr những đạo diễn đột phá/tài năng mới nổi

4. Do Viet Nam people prefer to watch domestic movies or foreign movies?

A The market is quite balanced, but there is a clear trend toward appreciating high-quality domestic productions.
R While blockbuster foreign movies still lead the box office, Vietnamese films have seen a massive surge in quality and popularity.
E The rise of locally produced romantic comedies, horrors, and family dramas that resonate with local culture.
C This growing pride in local cinema encourages more investment and artistic risk-taking in the domestic film industry.

It is a competitive landscape where both have their place, but there is a clear, positive surge in the popularity of Vietnamese cinema. While international blockbusters continue to dominate in terms of sheer spectacle and box office numbers, local audiences are increasingly prioritizing stories that reflect their own cultural nuances and social experiences. This shift indicates a growing maturation of the domestic film industry, with creators becoming more confident in producing content that resonates deeply with local viewers.

positive surge /ˈpɒzətɪv sɜːdʒ/ n phr sự gia tăng tích cực
growing maturation /ˈɡrəʊɪŋ ˌmætʃuˈreɪʃn/ n phr sự trưởng thành ngày càng tăng

5. What are the factors that make a successful movie?

A A successful film usually relies on the "trinity" of script, direction, and acting.
R These elements must work in perfect harmony to create a believable and engaging world.
E A compelling plot that keeps the audience guessing, a director who knows how to pace the film, and actors who deliver authentic performances.
C When these factors align, the movie not only performs well commercially but also resonates long after the credits roll.

A truly successful movie is usually the result of a harmonious synergy between a compelling screenplay, precise direction, and authentic performances. It is not just about having a high budget; it is about creating a world that the audience finds credible and emotionally engaging. When these factors align, the film transcends mere entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and frequently attaining both commercial success and critical acclaim.

harmonious synergy /hɑːˈməʊniəs ˈsɪnədʒi/ n phr sự hợp lực hài hòa
lasting impression on the audience /ˈlɑːstɪŋ ɪmˈpreʃn ɒn ði ˈɔːdiəns/ n phr ấn tượng khó phai đối với khán giả

6. What kinds of movies do you think are successful in your country?

A Comedies, action-packed thrillers, and relatable family dramas are consistently successful.
R These genres tap into the audience's desire for both pure escapism and shared social experiences.
E During festive seasons, feel-good family movies often break ticket records, while action films remain a staple throughout the year.
C Understanding these audience preferences helps producers tailor their content to achieve the best possible market outcome.

In my country, genres that offer high entertainment value—specifically action-thrillers and light-hearted comedies—are consistently the most successful. These films often serve as a form of accessible escapism for a busy populace. Additionally, family-oriented dramas that highlight relatable cultural values tend to perform exceptionally well during major holidays, proving that movies that effectively mirror the local social fabric are the ones most likely to capture the hearts of the public.

accessible escapism /əkˈsesəbl ɪˈskeɪpɪzəm/ n phr sự giải trí/thoát ly thực tại dễ tiếp cận
mirror the local social fabric /ˈmɪrə(r) ðə ˈləʊkl ˈsəʊʃl ˈfæbrɪk/ v phr phản chiếu cơ cấu/đời sống xã hội địa phương

Speaking Part 3 Film

1. Do you think (watching) films have (has) educational benefits?

I think films can be an integral part of education, just not in the traditional sense. Through films we enable people to learn visually, which can be beneficial to people who simply do not work well with books. We create empathy, show a different perspective or give insight into a character’s life or a different place in the world. As a teaching aid, people will probably respond better to a film than a text as it will hold their attention better. Even if a film is not educational at its core, you can use subtitles to improve reading and literacy skills, and with the multitude of books turning into films nowadays I think it makes it easier for people to be moved to read the book after watching an entertaining film.

integral /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ adj thiết yếu
empathy /ˈempəθi/ n sự đồng cảm, thấu cảm
perspective /pəˈspektɪv/ n góc nhìn
insight /ˈɪnsaɪt/ n sự hiểu biết sâu
core /kɔː(r)/ n bản chất, cốt lõi
subtitle /ˈsʌbtaɪtl/ n phụ đề (phim)
multitude /ˈmʌltɪtjuːd/ n rất nhiều

2. In what ways are documentary films and films only for entertainment different?

I think the key difference between both of them is imagination, the goal of a documentary is mainly to inform about a particular topic set in reality, films for entertainment have more of a leeway to play with facts, characters and storylines. But as dissimilar as they can be one from the other, they can both tackle the same subjects just through different methods perhaps. Because at the end of the day, both should be entertaining or rather both should be captivating enough that an audience will want to watch it and finish it. I would also think that usually a documentary film will have a much lower production cost than an entertainment film will, so you’ll have smaller crews working on recording it and producing.

leeway /ˈliːweɪ/ n sự dư thừa thời gian, sự tự do khi làm điều gì
dissimilar /dɪˈsɪmɪlə(r)/ adj không giống nhau
tackle /ˈtækl/ v đối phó với

3. How are films and real life different ?

I’ve never really thought about this, but I would say unlike in films there is no script to life and you are not always in control of what happens. Films have a very definite start, middle and end. Life has a fixed start and an end, but you can also see it as a continuous series of stories linked together haphazardly, some stories never end in our life simply fade away, some are short and boring. That would be the biggest difference I think, films are entertaining all the way through, life has lulls.

script /skrɪpt/ n kịch bản
in control of /ɪn kənˈtrəʊl əv/ adj phr / idiom kiểm soát được
haphazardly /hæpˈhæzədli/ adv lẫn lộn, ngẫu nhiên

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

I think it is because it forces people to look at reality and reality is often dissapointing. We watch films for entertainment, to disconnect in a sense from what is happening around us. A documentary places a mirror in front of the society with current issues, and that is not everyone’s cup of tea. If I live in a crime-ridden place, I don’t necessarily want to see the reality behind it, but I would rather see a cop show up instead, which is more glamorous. There’s also the fact that documentary quality seems to be all over the place, some are excellent, heart-wrenching, beautifully produced pieces of work, while others are terribly-lit and painfully edited pieces of garbage. So one bad experience could make people more hesitant to jump into documentary films in general.

disconnect /ˌdɪskəˈnekt/ v tách ra khỏi, ngắt kết nối với cái gì
place a mirror /pleɪs ə ˈmɪrə(r)/ v phr bắt người ta phải soi lại
cup of tea /kʌp əv tiː/ idiom ý thích
crime-ridden /ˈkraɪm ˌrɪdn/ adj nhiều tội phạm
hesitant /ˈhezɪtənt/ adj lưỡng lự

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