Cambridge English Exams
C1 Advanced Review Writing: Film Review
Example Exam Task
You see the following announcement on a website, Great Lives:
Send us a review of a book or film that focuses on somebody who has made an important contribution to society.
Did you learn anything new about the person’s life from the book or film? Did the book or film help you understand why this person made their important contribution?
Write your review (220 – 260 words) in an appropriate style.
C1 Advanced Review Example
A Portrait of Faith and Inner Strength – ‘Karol: A Man Who Became Pope’
‘Karol: A Man Who Became Pope’, directed by Giacomo Battiato, portrays the formative years of Karol Wojtyła, later known as Pope John Paul II. The story begins in 1939, when German troops invade Poland and a young student at the Jagiellonian University in Kraków witnesses the arrest of his professors and the brutal suppression of national identity. The role of Karol Wojtyła is played by Piotr Adamczyk.
Before watching the film, I had not fully understood how decisive these early experiences were. Faced with violence and injustice, Wojtyła chooses not to take up arms, but to devote his life to preserving the spiritual heritage of his nation. Having lost his father, friends and colleagues during the war, he resolves to bear witness to human dignity and the values of the Church. These scenes reveal the moral foundations that later shaped his leadership.
The film clearly explains why he made such an important contribution to society. His decision to become a priest, combined with his charisma and deep sensitivity to human suffering, demonstrates that his authority was grounded in empathy rather than power. By showing the inner struggles behind his public role, the film helps viewers understand that his impact on the world stemmed from personal loss, unwavering faith and a profound sense of responsibility. Overall, it presents a man whose moral courage and compassion left a lasting impression on those around him.
Moving and inspiring, ‘Karol: A Man Who Became Pope’ offers not just a biography, but also inspiration for viewers and a compelling lesson in courage and compassion. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, as it provides both a moving insight into the life of a remarkable man and a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and moral integrity in facing the challenges of life.