The Review
A review describes and evaluates something — a film, book, restaurant, game, TV series, or place — and gives a recommendation. It is written for a specific publication (a magazine, website, or school newsletter) and uses an engaging, semi-formal style with a personal voice.
What can you review?
Structure
Recommended
An engaging title that names the thing being reviewed and perhaps hints at your verdict. It should make the reader want to read on.
- A feast for the senses — [Restaurant name]
- [Film title]: worth the wait?
- Not just a game — a masterpiece
1 paragraph
Introduce what you are reviewing, when/where you experienced it, and give a general first impression. Engage the reader immediately.
- I recently watched / read / visited…
- [Name] is described as… but the reality is…
- When I first heard about…, I was sceptical. Having now…
1–2 paragraphs
Describe the main aspects in detail. For a film: plot and acting. For a restaurant: food and atmosphere. Be specific — give examples. Don’t reveal spoilers in film/book reviews.
- The plot centres on… / The menu features…
- One particularly impressive aspect is…
- The highlight of the experience was…
Integrated
Don’t separate description from evaluation — weave your opinion into the description. Mention both positive and negative aspects for a balanced, credible review.
- While the… was excellent, the… left something to be desired.
- What sets it apart from similar… is…
- Despite one or two flaws,…
1 paragraph
Give a clear recommendation and specify who the thing is most suitable for. A good review always answers the question: ‘Should I bother?’
- I would highly recommend… to anyone who enjoys…
- This is essential viewing / reading / visiting for…
- If you are looking for…, look no further.
Useful language
Annotated model answer
Task: A student magazine has asked readers to write a review of a film they have seen recently. Include information about the plot and acting, and say whether you would recommend it.
I approached this film with some reluctance — slow-paced dramas are not usually my first choice. Two hours later, I left the cinema feeling genuinely moved in a way few films manage.②
The film tells the story of a retired teacher who reconnects with her estranged daughter during a power cut that traps them both in a remote train station. The premise sounds simple, but the script makes it anything but. Each conversation reveals something new about the two characters, and the tension between them builds in a way that feels entirely natural.③
The performances are extraordinary. Both lead actors carry the film almost entirely through dialogue, and not a single line feels forced. The setting — a dimly lit station buffet, filmed in long, unhurried takes — adds to the sense of intimacy. ④The one weakness is a slightly contrived final scene, but it does little to diminish the overall impact.
I would highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys character-driven stories. It is not a film that makes noise — but it is one that stays with you.⑤
The title names the film and gives a hint of the verdict (‘unforgettable’). It makes the reader curious without giving everything away.
Starts with personal expectations — then subverts them. This is a classic review opening technique that draws the reader in immediately.
Brief, specific, no spoilers. The writer explains what happens without revealing the ending. Notice how opinion is woven in (‘anything but simple’).
Praises performances and setting, then mentions one weakness. This makes the review credible — a review with no criticism sounds unreliable.
Specifies the target audience. Ends with a memorable phrase that captures the film’s quality. Avoids overused words like ‘great’ or ‘amazing’.
Before you submit — checklist
- I have written a title
- I have named what I am reviewing in the introduction
- I have described the main aspects specifically (not vaguely)
- I have included both positive and negative points
- I have NOT revealed a major spoiler
- I have used varied evaluative vocabulary (not just ‘good/bad’)
- I have given a clear recommendation
- I have specified who the thing is suitable for
- I have written between 140 and 190 words
- I have checked spelling and punctuation
Common mistakes to avoid
The film was really good and very interesting. The acting was nice and the story was amazing. I really liked it a lot.
The performances are exceptional, and the script builds tension gradually through carefully crafted dialogue. The pacing is near-perfect.
Everything about this restaurant was perfect. The food was incredible, the staff were amazing and the prices were brilliant. It has no faults at all.
The food was outstanding and the service impeccable. The one drawback is the price, which may put off casual diners — but for a special occasion, it is worth every penny.