Film and Book Review Examples - set 3

Film Review

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – Entering a World of Magic

Credits:

• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Family

• Director: Chris Columbus

• Based on the novel by: J.K. Rowling

• Lead Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint

• Release Year: 2001

• Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is a fantasy adventure film that introduces audiences to the magical world of Hogwarts. The story follows Harry, an orphan boy who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. With the help of his friends Ron and Hermione, Harry learns about friendship, bravery, and his mysterious past, while facing threats linked to the dark wizard Voldemort. Key themes include identity, courage, loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil.

Chris Columbus directs with warmth, innocence, and a child-friendly sense of wonder. His style is faithful to the book, focusing on world-building and character development rather than fast-paced action. The cast of young actors—Radcliffe, Watson, and Grint—create memorable and endearing portrayals of the main trio. The screenplay remains close to the original text, preserving its humour and charm. Set in modern Britain and the magical realm of Hogwarts, the setting blends medieval architecture with contemporary elements. Technically, the film is impressive for its time, featuring costumes that reflect wizarding traditions, atmospheric cinematography, and iconic background music by John Williams. VFX sequences such as the Quidditch match and the troll fight successfully bring magic to life for early 2000s cinema.

Compared to later films in the series, this instalment is lighter in tone and more childlike in wonder. It remains a strong introduction to the franchise due to its faithful adaptation, engaging performances, and imaginative visual design. Overall, it is a delightful fantasy film that continues to charm audiences of all ages. I recommend it highly as a must watch not only for the Harry Potter fans but also all those who love a heart-warming film which gives us feel-good positive vibes.

Book Review – Novel

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – The Boy Who Lived

Factual Details:

• Title: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

• Author: J.K. Rowling

• Publisher: Bloomsbury

• Year of Publication: 1997

• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

• Star Rating: ★★★★★

The novel tells the story of Harry Potter, a mistreated orphan living with the Dursleys. His life changes when he learns he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. There, Harry forms friendships, faces challenges, and ultimately prevents Voldemort from returning to power using the Philosopher’s Stone.

Rowling’s world-building is one of the greatest strengths of the novel. Hogwarts is rich with magical details—moving staircases, enchanted feasts, and secret chambers. Characters are vividly written: Harry is brave and humble; Hermione is logical and determined; Ron is loyal and witty. The themes explore friendship, courage, self-discovery, and good versus evil. The plot is simple yet captivating, structured through school events and mystery clues. A memorable quote—“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live”—reflects Dumbledore’s wisdom and the novel’s moral depth.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is an enchanting and timeless novel that shaped modern fantasy literature. With its imaginative world and relatable characters, it continues to inspire young readers and remains a classic of children’s literature. It’s a highly recommended book for the young readers as it helps them boost their creativity and imagination. 

Compering - Example 2

Q. Draft the script for the compering act of the dance competition organised in your college.

Answer: Good evening respected Principal madam, teachers, esteemed judges and my dear friends! A warm and energetic welcome to “Nritya Bharat – Dance Forms of India”, our college dance competition celebrating the rhythm, colours, and cultures of our nation. From classical grace to folk vibrance, dance in India is a language of emotions and traditions.

To mark the beginning of this cultural feast, I request our Principal madam to inaugurate the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Thank you, madam. Let’s give a big round of applause for a blessed beginning! 

Today we will witness performances based on Bharatanatyam, Lavani, Bhangra, Kathak, and Bollywood fusion. Each form represents a different corner of India and its unique spirit.

Our first entry is a soulful Bharatanatyam performance—an elegant blend of rhythm and expression. Please welcome Ms. Kamal Sheshadri on the stage. 

Performance 1 

What a spectacular performance. Such a treat for the audience. Please appreciate the performers with applause!  

The second entry brings the fiery beats of Maharashtra through Lavani. Get ready for grace and power! Ms. Gayatri Sonkar please come on the stage. 

Performance 2 

Wow! It was fabulous. What a graceful performance. Applause please! 

Before we continue, a quick thought: “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” and our performers are proving it right through showing us the soulful performances. 

Next, the third entry—a lively Bhangra that will make you want to tap your feet! Cheer for them! Let's welcome a team of 6 wonderful dancers from the energetic Punjab. 

Performance 3

We are completely moved by this power packed performance. What a beat! Audience please show your love and support through a loud round of applause. 

Our fourth entry is a captivating Kathak recital filled with spins and storytelling. Let's welcome Nitha Ayyar on the stage. 

Performance 4 

Let’s appreciate this mesmarising dance performance! Show your appreciation with a big round of applause. 

Finally, the fifth entry, a fun Bollywood Fusion bringing modern sparkle to traditional charm with the next performance by Mr. Kishore Joshi. 

Performance 5

That was wonderful. I'm sure all are movie-buffs enjoyed it thoroughly. Loud applause everyone! 

Now after the last performance, I call upon the judges to declare the Prizes. 

Prize declaration and distribution by the judges and the principal. 

Congratulations to all the winners. Keep your talent alive and shining. 

To conclude I would say, today’s performances showcased true unity in diversity through these dance performances. 

Now I want to share my deep feelings of gratitude towards all the people who have contributed to the success of this program. First I want to thank the technical team for coordinating all the support. A heartfelt thanks to our Principal, teachers, judges, participants and last but not the least, you all, our energetic and enthusiastic, thank you audience for making this event memorable. Thank you all and keep dancing! 

Blog Writing - An Example

Film Review - Example 2

Film Review

Avengers: Endgame – The Final Battle for the Universe

Credits:

• Genre: Superhero, Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi

• Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo

• Screenplay: Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely

• Studio: Marvel Studios

• Lead Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth

• Release Year: 2019

• Star Rating: ★★★★★

Avengers: Endgame is a grand culmination of over a decade of Marvel cinematic storytelling. 

The film begins after the catastrophic events of Infinity War, where half the universe has vanished due to Thanos’s snap. The surviving Avengers devise a risky plan to undo the tragedy through time travel. 

Themes of sacrifice, responsibility, teamwork, and closure dominate the narrative, making the film both emotional and heroic.

The Russo Brothers deliver an ambitious narrative with remarkable clarity and emotional depth. Their direction balances intricate timelines, cosmic scale action, and intimate character arcs. Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark is unforgettable, while Chris Evans brings dignity and strength to Captain America. The characterization highlights personal loss and heroism rather than mere spectacle. The screenplay is dense yet engaging, with humour, nostalgia, and emotional dialogues. Set across different timelines and locations—from New York to Vormir—the setting enriches the storytelling. Technically, the film excels with cutting-edge VFX, detailed costumes, and impressive makeup. Alan Silvestri’s soundtrack and background score elevate action sequences, especially the final battle. Editing, sound effects, and CGI integration are superior compared to earlier Marvel films.

Compared to previous Marvel films, Endgame stands out for its emotional intensity and narrative closure. It successfully honours beloved characters while delivering satisfying resolutions. Epic in scale and poignant in tone, Endgame is both a cinematic spectacle and a heartfelt farewell to an era of superheroes. I highly recommend the movie as it's worth it and the best of the series so don't miss it especially if you are already an AVERAGES fan. 

Film and Book Review: Examples - set 2

Film Review

The Girl on the Train – A Journey into Memory, Mystery, and Obsession

Credits:

• Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Drama

• Director: Tate Taylor

• Based on the novel by: Paula Hawkins

• Lead Cast: Emily Blunt, Rebecca Ferguson, Haley Bennett

• Release Year: 2016

• Star Rating: ★★★☆☆

The Girl on the Train is a psychological thriller that explores themes of memory, loneliness, guilt, and perception. The story revolves around Rachel Watson, a troubled woman who travels daily by train and becomes obsessed with a couple she observes from the window. When the woman she watches goes missing, Rachel finds herself entangled in a complex mystery, forcing her to confront her own past and fractured memories.

Director Tate Taylor presents the narrative in a slow-burning and atmospheric style, focusing on psychological tension rather than fast-paced action. Emily Blunt delivers a powerful and emotionally intense performance as Rachel, convincingly portraying vulnerability and confusion. Rebecca Ferguson and Haley Bennett support the story with strong performances. The characterization is realistic, especially in showing flawed and unreliable narrators. The screenplay uses fragmented storytelling and sharp dialogues to reflect Rachel’s unstable mental state. Set in suburban New York in contemporary times, the film’s gloomy locations enhance the suspense. Technically, the film uses muted colour tones, effective background music, and subtle sound effects to build tension. Costumes and makeup are kept natural to suit the realistic tone. In the movie the is focus on human psychology.

In conclusion I would say that, compared to similar thrillers like Gone Girl, this film is slower and more introspective. Though predictable in parts, it succeeds due to strong performances and mood. Overall, The Girl on the Train is an engaging psychological drama that keeps viewers thinking till the end.

Book (Novel) Review

The Girl on the Train – Seeing Is Not Always Believing

• Title: The Girl on the Train

• Author: Paula Hawkins

• Publisher: Riverhead Books

• Year of Publication: 2015

• Genre: Psychological Thriller

• Star Rating: ★★★★☆

The novel follows Rachel Watson, an emotionally broken woman who takes the same train every day and observes people from her window. She becomes particularly interested in a couple she names “Jess and Jason.” When the woman disappears, Rachel’s life intersects with the investigation, revealing dark secrets about relationships, trust, and memory.

The novel’s strongest feature is its characterization. Rachel is deeply flawed yet relatable, making her a compelling protagonist. The story is narrated through multiple viewpoints, creating suspense and uncertainty. Major themes include alcoholism, domestic abuse, identity and the unreliability of memory. The plot is tightly constructed with gradual revelations. A striking quote from the book is: “There is a pile of clothing on the side of the train tracks.”—a line that immediately sets the tone of mystery.

In conclusion my overall opinion is that, ‘The Girl on the Train’ is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers hooked with its suspense and emotional depth. It is a thought-provoking novel that questions truth and perception, making it a highly recommended read.

Film and Book Review: Examples - set 1

Film Review

Gone Girl – A Marriage Wrapped in Mystery

Credits:

• Genre: Psychological Thriller, Crime, Drama

• Director: David Fincher

• Screenplay: Gillian Flynn

• Lead Cast: Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris

• Release Year: 2014

• Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Gone Girl is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the dark complexities of marriage, trust, and media manipulation.

The story begins with the sudden disappearance of Amy Dunne on her fifth wedding anniversary. Suspicion quickly falls on her husband, Nick Dunne, whose behaviour and media image make him appear guilty. The central idea of the film revolves around deception, power dynamics in relationships, and the contrast between public image and private reality.

David Fincher’s direction is sharp, cold, and methodical, perfectly suited to the film’s unsettling tone. Ben Affleck delivers a controlled performance as Nick, while Rosamund Pike shines as Amy, giving a chilling and unforgettable portrayal that dominates the film. The characterization is complex and layered, especially Amy’s transformation. The screenplay is tight and intelligent, with impactful dialogues and clever narrative twists. The setting is a small town in Missouri in contemporary times, adding realism to the crime narrative. Technically, the film is outstanding—moody cinematography, precise editing, and Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s haunting background score intensify the suspense. Costumes and makeup subtly reflect character psychology rather than glamour.

In conclusion my opinion is that, compared to other Fincher films like Se7en and The Social Network, Gone Girl is more intimate yet equally disturbing. It stands apart from typical thrillers due to its psychological depth and social commentary. Dark, intelligent, and provocative, Gone Girl is a powerful cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Book (Novel) Review

Gone Girl – A Twisted Tale of Truth and Lies

Factual Details:

• Title: Gone Girl

• Author: Gillian Flynn

• Publisher: Crown Publishing Group

• Year of Publication: 2012

• Genre: Psychological Thriller, Crime

• Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Gone Girl tells the story of Nick and Amy Dunne, whose seemingly perfect marriage collapses when Amy mysteriously disappears. The narrative alternates between Nick’s present-day account and Amy’s diary entries, gradually revealing shocking secrets. The novel examines how love can turn into manipulation and how appearances can be dangerously deceptive.

The strongest aspect of the novel is its characterization. Amy Dunne is one of the most complex and disturbing female characters in modern fiction, while Nick is flawed yet believable. Major themes include marriage as a performance, gender expectations, media influence, and revenge. The plot is cleverly structured with unreliable narrators and sudden twists that constantly challenge the reader’s assumptions. A memorable quote, “What are you thinking, Amy?”, captures the novel’s haunting psychological tension.

Readers who enjoy Gone Girl may also like The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins and The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.

My Overall Opinion is that, Gone Girl is a dark, intelligent, and thrilling novel that redefines the psychological thriller genre. With its sharp writing and bold themes, it keeps readers engaged till the final page. It is a must-read for lovers of suspenseful and thought-provoking fiction.

Film Review - Example 1

Avatar: Fire and Ash – When Pandora Faces Its Darkest Flames

Credits:

• Genre: Science-fiction, Fantasy, Action

• Director: James Cameron

• Lead Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver

• Release: 2025

• Rating: ★★★★☆

Avatar: Fire and Ash continues James Cameron’s epic saga set on the moon Pandora. The film explores a darker chapter where the Na’vi face internal conflict and a new threat symbolised by fire and destruction. The central theme revolves around power, survival, and the moral consequences of progress. Jake Sully and Neytiri struggle to protect their people while confronting a more aggressive clan and renewed human intervention.

James Cameron’s direction is visionary and immersive, maintaining his signature style of grand storytelling blended with ecological concerns. Sam Worthington portrays Jake Sully with maturity, while Zoe Saldaña’s Neytiri emerges as emotionally intense and powerful. The characterization is layered, especially the newer fire-clan leaders. The screenplay is gripping, with impactful dialogues that reflect cultural conflict. The setting remains Pandora, but shifts to volcanic regions, adding a dramatic time and place contrast. Technically, the film excels with breathtaking VFX, realistic motion capture, rich costumes, and stunning action sequences. The background score enhances the emotional depth.

Compared to earlier Avatar films, Fire and Ash is darker and more complex in tone. It stands out for its visual brilliance and strong message. Though slightly lengthy, it is a cinematic spectacle worth watching. I highly recommend it to all who are the fans of the franchise and love animated movies with a twist of fantasy and science. 

Compering - Example 1

Q. Prepare the script of compering for the 'Cultural Harmony Day' celebration. 

Answer: 

Good morning respected Principal madam, teachers, and my dear friends. A warm welcome to everyone present here. 

Harmony in society fosters a sense of community and cooperation, leading to mutual respect and understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds. Harmony promotes peaceful resolution of conflicts, reducing violence and promoting stability in communities and worldwide. When people and nations are in harmony, they can focus on progress and development, leading to improved quality of life and economic growth. Harmony encourages cultural exchange and understanding, breaking stereotypes and building bridges between different societies and nations.

Today we have gathered here to celebrate “Cultural Harmony Day”, a programme that reflects unity in diversity and gives our students a platform to express their talents through art, music and words.

Let us begin this auspicious event with inauguration. I request our respected Principal to inaugurate the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. (Lighting of the lamp) 

Thank you, madam. Let’s give a big round of applause.

Friends, today’s programme includes a prayer song, a classical dance, a patriotic speech, a group song, and a short skit. Each performance carries the message of harmony and hope.

Our first entry is a melodious Prayer Song by the college students, reminding us that every great beginning starts with gratitude. 

Entry 1 

What a beautiful song which I'm sure touched every heart around here. A big applause please! 

The second entry is a Classical Dance portraying Indian culture through graceful movements. 

Entry 2 

I'm sure all of you enjoyed the rhythm and graceful performance of the dance. I request you to give them a huge round of applause! 

Before the next performance, here’s a thought: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

The third entry is a Patriotic Speech that will surely ignite pride in our hearts. 

Entry 3 

Wow! Every word said here has made us all think about the greatness of our country and it's tremendous contribution to the global harmony. Applause please! 

Next, we have a Group Song spreading joy and togetherness. 

Entry 4 

This melodious song has deeply touched our hearts and their in sync team spirit was evident in their performance. Encourage them with your applause! 

Our final entry is a Short Skit delivering a social message with humor and insight. 

Entry 5

Along with being entertaining, I'm sure the performance was an eye opener as well. A loud round of applause for the great performance is what they truly deserve! 

As we come to the end, today’s programme truly showcased talent, teamwork, and positivity. I sincerely thank our technical team for arranging the program so well. I also thank our Principal madam, teachers, participants and last but not the least, I thank our wonderful audience for making this event a grand success. With this, I conclude the programme. Thank you and have a wonderful day!