Do you love talking about Films?
Are you trying to watch more films in English?
Join Peter’s English Film Club!
Saturday 20th September at 13:00 UK Time
We will discuss… The Shawshank Redemption!
You can find more details on how to participate on Patreon and Discord!
What is Film Club? – The Shawshank Redemption
Film Language Document – Conversation Questions – Extra Resources
What is Peter’s Film Club?
The Film Club is a great opportunity to practice English speaking skills by talking about a film.
Peter invites Thinking In English Conversation Club members (Patreon levels: Learner and Master) to join him on Zoom one Saturday per month, for free!
If you are not a Patreon member, you can pay to join the film club on Peter’s website
But it’s not just about improving speaking skills. Every film has a different topic so talking about them is a really effective way to increase your vocabulary.
Also, you can practice your writing. After every meeting, you can write your thoughts about the film and Peter will read it amd give you detailed feedback!
How to Prepare the Film Club:
1. Watch the film!
2. Prepare by studying the Film Language Document.
(The Film Language Document contains 10 Themes, and 30 Vocabulary Items specific to the film. It also contains the 10 conversation questions we will discuss in the meeting!)
You can find the Film Language Document (and more) below…
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Here is a simple description of the film
The Shawshank Redemption is an epic drama stretching over 19 years in a prison. It is based on a short story by the legendary author Stephen King. It features very memorable acting performances from Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.
The main character, Andy Dufresne is sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his wife and her lover, a charge which he strongly denies. The story explores themes including prison life, morality, inner strength, acceptance, loyalty and… redemption.
It is emotionally powerful, at times mercilessly brutal, and yet deeply inspiring. It is often considered one of the best films ever.
In fact, on IMDb, it is ranked as the number 1 best film of all time!
Conversation Questions!
- What was your first impression of The Shawshank Redemption? What emotions did it make you feel?
- Talk about a character you found interesting. Why?
- Describe one scene that you found particularly memorable or moving. Why did it stick with you?
- How does the friendship between Andy and Red evolve? What makes their bond so meaningful?
- The film explores corruption within the prison system. How is power abused, and what are the consequences?
- Talk a little bit about Red’s idea of the three stages of prison acceptance. What do you think about it?
- Do you see any religious or philosophical images or lessons in the story? If so, what are they?
- Red says, “Hope is a dangerous thing.” Do you agree?
- How does Andy’s moral character compare to some of the characters around him?
- In what way is this a story about redemption? Who is redeemed, and in what way
(extra) This is often considered one of the best films ever made, it’s the number one highest rated film on IMDb. Do you think this is justified? Or is it overrated?
Do you have any more thoughts or questions?
Why not prepare 1 or 2 more of your own questions or opinions about the film?!
Extra Resources
If you want to do even more, you might want to look at the online resources:
IMDb Page
IMDb page where you can find everything about the film including: Videos, Characters, Cast and Crew, Plot Synopsis, Quotes, Reviews and more!
Film Trailer on YouTube
See if you like the look of the film by watching the trailer.
… and it might help you refresh your memory if you saw it a long time ago!
The Shawshank Redemption Vocabulary
Learn and practice the vocabulary for this film!.
Practice using 5 different study games and activities – including writing, listening, and memorisation techniques!
Flashcards
Matching Game
Learning Game
Test Yourself
Listening and Spelling
General Film Vocabulary
Learn and practice vocabulary for this Thinking in English Conversation Club.
Practice using 5 different study games and activities – including writing, listening, and memorisation techniques!
Flashcards
Matching Game
Learning Game
Test Yourself
Listening and Spelling
See you at the Film Club!
