🎬 How to review a film
Sunshine on Leith
When you watch the film Sunshine on Leith, you'll see Edinburgh as you've never seen it before ... as a musical! Follow the adventures of Ally and Davy, two soldiers returning to Edinburgh from Afghanistan and sing along to The Proclaimers greatest hits.
🎥 Watch: Sunshine on Leith trailer
This is a feel-good Scottish musical based on songs by The Proclaimers
As you watch, think about:
- What emotions does the film focus on?
- Would you enjoy watching it? Why or why not?
🗣️ 5 useful phrases for writing a film review
- 1. The film is set in…
→ “The film is set in Edinburgh, and shows life in the Leith area.”
- 2. One of the highlights was…
→ “One of the highlights was the final scene, where everyone sings together.”
- 3. The characters felt real / believable / flat / exaggerated.
→ I thought that the characters were very believable and relatable.
- 4. On the one hand… / On the other hand…
→ Great for showing contrast
- 5. I would recommend this film to people who enjoy…
→ Use this to wrap up your opinion
A review from the Guardian - authentic reading practice
👀 While you read, answer these questions:
- 1. Does the reviewer enjoy the film overall?
- 2. What words does the writer use to describe the mood and style of the film?
- 3. What does “shameless crowdpleaser” mean in this context?
- 4. Do you agree or disagree with their opinion? Why?
📝 Writing task: Review a film you’ve seen recently
Write a short review (120–150 words) of a film you’ve seen — in English or in your own language. Include:
- Title and short summary (no spoilers!)
- What you liked and didn’t like
- Who you’d recommend it to
- One cultural or emotional theme in the film
💡 Try to use 2–3 phrases from the list above.
💬 Speaking prompts (for group work or class discussion)
- • Would Sunshine on Leith be popular in your country? Why / why not?
- • What makes a good film — the story, the music, the acting, or something else?
- • What’s one film you love that others don’t understand?
- • Have you ever changed your opinion about a film after watching it again?
🎓 Study with ECS Scotland
Would you like to practise real English by talking about films, culture and opinions?
Our Communication at Work and Experience Edinburgh courses help you do just that.
