Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
A character from a story/ film/ TV programme - Cue Card # 697
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]
Describe a character from a story/ film/ TV programme.
You should say:
- who/what this character is
- when you first saw/read about this character
- what kind of person this character is
and explain how much you like this character.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
I like to watch all kinds of movies just for the fun of it, but I don’t necessarily remember any particular movie characters or care to consider them any more special than the others. However, there is one character, which deserves special attention from some unworthy critics like me, because of its very distinct appeal and universal acclamation.
The name of this character is “Vito Corleone” from one of the best movies, ever made in the history of films, called “The Godfather”. After watching “The Godfather” about 8 years ago for the first time, I wanted to watch the movie again after a few weeks. Later, I watched the movie once again after a month or so. It was that there was just something mysterious and unexplainable about that movie which drew me to watch it again and again.
Then, a few months later, I realized that it was the special character of “Vito Corleone”, played by one of the best actors ever in Hollywood - Marlon Brando. Anyway, Vito Corleone's character was inspired by a real-life mafia boss “Frank Costello”, who is presented as a very cunning and intelligent mafia boss at the same time that made him to this day a very quotable character – a character which has become a quintessential part of popular American culture.
However even though Vito Corleone is portrayed to be a very ruthless and cunning mafia boss, he also seems to be a very caring father, who wants to keep his family and sons safe from all kinds of dangers of the mafia world. Vito also seems to be too soft-spoken for a mafia boss in the movie who believes in brevity as much as justice and honour.
Anyway, I really like this Vito Corleone character because he seems to be a very complex personality, who cares about his family so much, and yet, he has so much interest in all kinds of organized crimes just to keep the control of mafia underworld. Vito Corleone is essentially the “man”, so many male persons would like to become, who is always able to see through the best and the worst.
Model Answer 2:
I am so grateful to you for the opportunity that you have given me to talk about a character from a book, movie or TV show. In my opinion, one of the most iconic and intriguing characters in literature is Sherlock Holmes, a fictional detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, whose unparalleled intellect and deductive prowess have captivated audiences for generations. I have always been a big fan of Sherlock Holmes.
Sherlock Holmes is a brilliant and enigmatic detective based in London during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is renowned for his exceptional powers of observation, logical reasoning, and keen attention to detail, which enable him to solve even the most perplexing mysteries.
I first encountered the character of Sherlock Holmes while reading Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective stories during my high school years. From the moment I delved into the pages of "A Study in Scarlet," the first novel featuring Holmes, I was instantly drawn to his sharp intellect, eccentric demeanour, and unparalleled ability to unravel complex mysteries.
Sherlock Holmes is depicted as a complex and multifaceted character, possessing a sharp wit, a razor-sharp intellect, and a penchant for unconventional methods. He is portrayed as a solitary figure, often immersed in his work and consumed by his pursuit of truth and justice. Despite his aloof and eccentric nature, Holmes demonstrates a deep sense of loyalty to his close friend and confidant, Dr. John Watson, and exhibits a strong moral compass in his quest to uphold justice.
I am immensely fond of Sherlock Holmes as a character due to his remarkable intellect, unparalleled deductive abilities, and unorthodox approach to problem-solving. His uncanny knack for piecing together seemingly disparate clues and arriving at logical conclusions never fails to impress me, and I find myself continually intrigued by his complex personality and insatiable thirst for knowledge. Moreover, Holmes' unwavering commitment to seeking truth and justice, even in the face of adversity, serves as a timeless reminder of the power of intellect, perseverance, and integrity in overcoming challenges and unravelling life's mysteries.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
When asked to describe a character from a book (story), film (movie), or TV programme, you can choose a character that left a strong emotional impact, represents admirable qualities, or entertained you greatly. Below are some well-known characters from different genres and mediums that you can base your answer on:
1. Atticus Finch – (To Kill a Mockingbird | Book & Movie):
Atticus is a lawyer and a single father known for his moral courage and sense of justice. I first read about him in high school. He is thoughtful, calm, and highly principled. I really admire his bravery in standing up against racism in the courtroom.
2. Sherlock Holmes – (Sherlock Holmes | Books & Movie):
This iconic detective character is known for his incredible intellect and logical reasoning. I first watched him in the BBC series "Sherlock." He is eccentric, analytical, and deeply focused. I like how his intelligence always helps solve complex cases.
3. Eleven – (Stranger Things | TV Series):
She’s a mysterious girl with supernatural powers and a traumatic past. I first saw her when the series was released. She is brave, loyal, and emotionally strong despite her young age. Her story really touched me.
4. Iron Man (Tony Stark) – (Marvel Cinematic Universe | Movies):
Tony Stark is a genius billionaire who becomes a self-made superhero. I watched his first movie as a teenager. His wit, charm, and deep personal transformation made him one of my favourite characters. He teaches that even flawed people can do great things.
5. Anne Shirley – (Anne with an E | TV Series):
Anne is an imaginative and outspoken orphan who finds a home in Avonlea. I watched the series during lockdown. Her creativity, resilience, and ability to find beauty in everything make her an inspiring character.
6. Walter White – (Breaking Bad | TV Series):
Walter is a chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin. I saw the show last year and found his transformation both disturbing and fascinating. He’s complex, intelligent, and morally conflicted, which makes him an unforgettable character.
7. Harry Potter – (Harry Potter series | Books & Movies):
A young wizard who discovers his identity and destiny while fighting evil. I read the book as a child. He is brave, kind, and always stands up for what is right. He grew up with me, and that’s why I love this character.
8. Lisbeth Salander – (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Book):
She is a hacker with a traumatic past but incredible intelligence and resourcefulness. I read the novel two years ago. Her independent and fierce personality really impressed me, and I admire her strength and determination.
9. Forrest Gump – (Forrest Gump | Movie):
A kind-hearted man with a low IQ but an inspiring life journey. I watched this film in a cinema. His honesty, innocence, and ability to touch others' lives make him a truly lovable character.
10. Katniss Everdeen – (The Hunger Games | Books & Movies):
She is a strong, rebellious teenager who volunteers to save her sister. I watched the film trilogy during school holidays. Her bravery, loyalty, and leadership make her one of my favourite female characters.
11. Jay Gatsby – (The Great Gatsby | Book & Movie):
Jay Gatsby is a mysterious and wealthy man who throws extravagant parties but hides a tragic past. I read the novel during my literature class. His deep longing for love and the illusion of the American Dream make him a fascinating character.
12. Elizabeth Bennet – (Pride and Prejudice | Book & Movie):
Elizabeth is an intelligent and witty young woman who values honesty and independence. I first read about her during my high school years. Her strong opinions and sense of humour make her one of the most admired female characters in classic literature.
13. Holden Caulfield – (The Catcher in the Rye | Book):
Holden is a teenager who narrates his life story filled with confusion and disillusionment. I read this book a few years ago. His raw honesty and struggle to find meaning in life made a lasting impression on me.
14. Woody – (Toy Story | Movie):
Woody is a loyal and responsible cowboy doll who always puts others first. I watched Toy Story as a child and again recently. His leadership and selflessness make him a memorable animated character.
15. Simba – (The Lion King | Movie):
Simba is a young lion who overcomes personal tragedy to reclaim his place as king. I first saw this film as a child. His journey from guilt and fear to courage and leadership makes his story both emotional and inspiring.
Model Answer 3:
Who/what this character is:
One of the most memorable characters I’ve come across in a movie is "Po", the lead character from the animated movie Kung Fu Panda. He’s a clumsy yet lovable panda who, despite all odds, ends up becoming a kung fu master. What makes Po so special is not just his unexpected journey but also the depth of his personality.
When you first saw/read about this character:
I first watched Kung Fu Panda around five or six years ago during a family movie night. I wasn’t expecting much initially - just some laughs and typical animation. However, within the first 20 minutes, I was completely drawn in by the humour, the visuals, and especially Po's character.
What kind of person this character is:
Po is an unlikely hero - overweight, insecure, and easily distracted by food. But beneath that goofiness lies a deeply determined and kind-hearted character. He’s genuinely humble, always trying to improve himself, and he never gives up, even when others doubt him. What I found inspiring is how he turns his weaknesses into strengths, using his love for food, for instance, as motivation to train harder in kung fu.
And explain how much you like this character:
I absolutely admire Po. His journey is full of humour, setbacks, and emotional moments, and it reminds me that success is not about being perfect but about embracing who you are. His story sends a powerful message - that greatness can come from the most unexpected places. Every time I rewatch the movie, I laugh, feel inspired, and come away with something new. Po isn’t just a cartoon character to me; he’s a symbol of perseverance and self-belief, and I think that’s what makes him so likeable and unforgettable.
Vocabulary for this Candidate Task Card / Cue Card topic:
Talking about a character from a story (book), movie, or TV programme gives you a great chance to showcase descriptive and expressive language. The following vocabulary includes useful words and phrases to describe appearance, personality, impact, and your emotional response. These will help you speak fluently and confidently about a memorable character.
Protagonist – The main character or hero of a story.
Antagonist – The character who opposes the main character or creates conflict.
Complex character – A character with many layers, emotions, or flaws.
Iconic – Widely recognised and admired; symbolic.
Witty – Clever and funny, especially in speech or humour.
Compelling – Very interesting and able to hold your attention.
Flawed – Imperfect or having weaknesses, often making a character more realistic.
Character arc – The transformation or growth a character undergoes throughout a story.
Morally grey – A character who does both good and bad things, not easily judged.
Heroic – Brave, noble, and admired for courageous actions.
Charming – Pleasant and likeable in a way that makes others feel attracted or impressed.
Animated character – A character from a cartoon or computer-generated film.
Symbolic – Representing a bigger idea or theme through a character.
Enigmatic – Mysterious or hard to understand.
Empathetic – Able to understand or share someone else’s feelings.
Legendary – Extremely well known and admired, often across generations.
Transformation – A major change in the character’s personality or actions over time.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a character from a story/ film/ TV programme", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a character from a movie you like.
2) Describe a character from a book or a TV programme that impressed you.
3) Describe a book or movie that you like.
4) Describe a film or a TV programme which has made a strong impression on you.
5) Describe a television programme that you watch.
6) Describe a book or movie that had a major influence on you.
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