Reviews

A review is a special type of article written for publication in a magazine, newspaper, etc giving a brief description and evaluation of a film, book, play, TV/radio programme, etc. It may be formal or semi-formal in style, depending on its intended readership, and is usually written using present tenses.

A successful review should consist of:

a) an introduction (paragraph 1) which mentions the title, the type of book/play/film/etc, the setting (when/where), the theme, the main characters, etc.

b) a main body of two more paragraphs containing the mian points of the plot (without revealing the ending), and evaluating such features as the acting, writing style, direction, characters, etc.

c) a conclusion (final paragraph) which includes an overall assessment of the work and/or a recommendation, usually with justification.

You may also be asked to give reasons why someone should see the film/play or read the book, how it has influenced you, etc. Note that the number and lenght of paragraphs varies depending on the topic.

Useful Language

To begin reviews

This well-written/informative/fascinating/thought-provoking book is...

The film/book/play/etc is set in.../is place is.../tells the story of.../is based on...

The film/play stars.../is directed by.../is the sequel to...

To end reviews

You should definitely see/read...

Don't miss it/You might enjoy...

All in all, it is well worth seeing/reading, since...

On the whole, I wouldn't recommend it, in view of the fact that...

It is a classic of its kind/It is sure to be a hit/best-seller...

To explain the plot

The plot revolves around.../involves.../focuses on.../has an unexpected twist.

The story begins with.../unfolds/reaches a dramatic climax with...

Evaluating various features

The play/film/series has a strong/star-studded/mediocre cast.

The acting is moving/powerful/excellent/weak/disappointing/unconvincing.

               |gripping/dramatic/fascinating/suspense-filled/fast-moving.

The cast is|

               |far-fetched/predictable/confusing/dull/unimaginative.

The script/dialogue is touching/witty/hilarious/boring/mundane.

It is beautifully/brilliantly/sensitively/written/directed.

Example: Write a film review.

Night at the museum

Night at the museum, a comedy directed by Shawn Levy, is set in New York and tells the story of Larry (Ben Stiller) who is divorced and has a son.

The film begins with Larry looking for a job. Very soon he begins to work in the Natural History Museum as a night guard. Everything at the museum (miniatures, stuffed animal and statues) gains life when night comes.

Although the plot is oversimplified, and predictable for some critics, it makes you forget your problems and have a good time. This film, which has been a box-office hit, has a star-studded cast: you can see famous actors such as Robin Williams and Owen Wilson among others as supporting actors. As regards Ben Stiller,he is not a magnificent actor and does not deserve an Oscar but he makes you laugh your head off.

Special effects are impressive because they seem so real when all the items of the museum gain life and behave as living creatures.

On the whole, I would recommend it for those who enjoy watching comedy films, in view of the fact that this film is enjoyable and amusing: you will not know what getting bored means.