C2 REVIEW

✅ ¿Qué es una Review?

Una review (reseña) es uno de los tipos de texto que puede aparecer en la Writing Part 2 del examen C2 Proficiency, aunque es una opción menos común. Se trata de un texto semi-formal o informal que tiene como objetivo:

Describir y valorar una experiencia, obra o producto (película, libro, espectáculo, restaurante, lugar…)
Analizar aspectos positivos y negativos
Expresar una opinión personal bien argumentada
Recomendar (o no) a un público concreto

Una buena review combina descripción objetiva, expresión subjetiva y estilo atractivo.

🧩 Estructura típica de una Review

Sección	Función principal	Frase útil de ejemplo
Title	Atractivo y claro, a veces con un toque personal	“A Book That Changed the Way I See the World”
Introduction	Presenta brevemente lo que vas a valorar	This film is based on… / Last weekend I went to see…
Description	Resume los aspectos clave de la obra o experiencia	The story centres on… / The venue was…
Evaluation	Analiza lo bueno y lo mejorable con argumentos personales	What I liked most was… / One drawback was…
Recommendation	Indica a quién lo recomendarías (o no) y por qué	I would highly recommend this to anyone who…

✨ Expresiones útiles de nivel C2 para Reviews

The plot revolves around… / The story is set in…
What really stood out for me was…
One particularly strong aspect is…
Another point worth mentioning is…
Although the pacing was uneven… / While the acting was convincing…
This may not appeal to everyone, but…
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys…
All in all, it was a truly memorable experience.

A continuación verás ejemplos que te ayudarán a interiorizar el estilo adecuado para obtener la nota más alta en el Writing del nivel Proficiency.

10 ejemplos:

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 1

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently read a book that had a lasting impact on you. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for a student magazine.

Write a review of the book, explaining what it is about, what you found particularly powerful, and whether you would recommend it to other students.

Review: The Book Thief – A Story That Stays with You

It is not often that a book manages to be both deeply moving and surprisingly uplifting, but The Book Thief by Markus Zusak achieves exactly that. Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who finds solace in books during a time of fear and destruction. What makes this book exceptional is not just the plot, but how it is told.

The story is narrated by Death – yes, the character – who observes the events with both detachment and unexpected tenderness. This narrative voice is one of the most original aspects of the book, offering philosophical insight without losing emotional depth.

The plot follows Liesel as she builds relationships, suffers loss, and discovers the power of words. The writing is poetic without being pretentious, and the author’s use of metaphor and imagery is consistently striking. At times, the pacing slows down, but this allows the reader to absorb the atmosphere and the weight of the historical context.

What truly stood out for me was the way the novel balances horror with hope. In a setting filled with violence and fear, the characters manage to retain kindness, humour and dignity. This emotional complexity is what makes the book linger in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the final page.

That said, this is not an easy read. The themes are heavy, and some scenes are emotionally intense. However, it is precisely this unflinching honesty that makes the book so powerful and necessary.

I would strongly recommend this novel to any student interested in history, literature or simply human resilience. It is a rare book that not only tells a story, but also teaches you how to feel it.

(282 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 2

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently watched a film that made a strong impression on you. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school magazine.

Write a review of the film, explaining what it is about, what made it memorable, and whether you would recommend it.

Review: Arrival – A Film That Redefines Sci-Fi

At first glance, Arrival might seem like just another alien encounter film, but it is anything but ordinary. Directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Amy Adams, this thought-provoking film blends science fiction with philosophy, linguistics, and emotion in a way that few mainstream productions have achieved.

The story follows Dr. Louise Banks, a linguist recruited by the military when twelve alien spacecraft appear around the globe. Her task is not to fight, but to communicate—to understand the purpose of the visitors. This premise alone sets the film apart, shifting focus from action and fear to language, time, and human understanding.

What truly stood out for me was the film’s emotional depth. Amy Adams delivers a powerful performance filled with nuance and vulnerability. The narrative unfolds non-linearly, drawing the viewer into a puzzle that gradually reveals its full meaning. When the pieces come together, the impact is both cerebral and emotional.

Visually, Arrival is stunning. The cinematography is understated but elegant, with subdued colours and atmospheric lighting that create a sense of mystery and awe. The sound design and haunting musical score heighten the experience without overwhelming it.

If I had to point out a drawback, some viewers might find the pacing slow. This is not a film for those expecting explosions or high-speed chases, but for those who appreciate subtlety and reflection.

I would highly recommend Arrival to anyone who enjoys science fiction with substance, or who simply appreciates films that ask big questions. It’s a film that stays with you, not because of what happens, but because of what it makes you think—and feel.

(316 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 3

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently started using a mobile application that helps users build healthy habits. Your teacher has asked you to write a review of the app for the school blog.

Write a review describing the app, evaluating its usefulness, and saying whether you would recommend it to others.

Review: Habitica – Turning Self-Discipline into a Game

If you’ve ever struggled with staying motivated or sticking to your goals, Habitica might be the app you didn’t know you needed. Unlike most habit trackers, this free app transforms your daily tasks into a role-playing game, where real-life achievements turn into rewards for your character in a fantasy world.

The concept is simple but clever: users create a custom avatar and set up daily habits, long-term goals, and one-time tasks. Completing these earns you gold and experience points, while skipping them—or checking off bad habits—costs your character health. This gamified system encourages daily discipline and builds momentum, all while keeping the process enjoyable.

What truly impressed me was the community element. Users can join parties, embark on group quests, and form guilds based on shared goals (e.g. learning a language, exercising regularly, or staying organised). This creates a sense of accountability and shared motivation, which is often missing from more traditional productivity tools.

Visually, the app features a charming 8-bit design that evokes nostalgia. While it may not appeal to everyone, the pixelated graphics are surprisingly effective, and the user interface is intuitive after a short learning curve.

One drawback is the initial complexity. New users may find the number of features overwhelming at first, especially those unfamiliar with role-playing games. However, there is an active help community and plenty of tutorials available.

I would strongly recommend Habitica to students, professionals, or anyone who wants to improve their daily routine in a fun, interactive way. It combines structure with creativity and turns self-improvement into something you actually look forward to.

It’s more than just an app—it’s a mindset shift. By turning discipline into adventure, Habitica makes habit-building both achievable and enjoyable.

(285 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 4

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently visited a city that left a strong impression on you. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school travel blog.

Write a review describing the city, what made it memorable, and whether you would recommend it to other students.

Review: Lisbon – A City That Surprises You at Every Turn

If you're looking for a destination that blends tradition with a youthful energy, Lisbon should be at the top of your list. Located on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, this vibrant city offers history, art, food and fun—all wrapped in stunning scenery and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

What struck me most about Lisbon was its unique character. With its tiled façades, steep cobbled streets, and vintage trams still in use, the city feels like a living postcard. At the same time, modern cafés, creative co-working spaces, and street art give it a youthful, cosmopolitan feel. This contrast is one of Lisbon’s biggest charms.

There’s no shortage of things to do. The historic neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto offer endless corners to explore, each with its own personality. You can spend the day listening to fado music, watching the sunset from São Jorge Castle, or simply getting lost in the narrow alleys filled with the smell of grilled sardines.

From a student’s perspective, Lisbon is also incredibly affordable compared to other European capitals. Public transport is efficient and cheap, food options range from traditional bakeries to vegan bistros, and there are numerous free walking tours, museums, and cultural events happening throughout the year.

The only downside I found was the steepness of the hills, which can be tiring after a full day on your feet. That said, the panoramic viewpoints at the top of every climb make the effort worthwhile.

I would highly recommend Lisbon to students who want to experience a city that is both laid-back and stimulating. Whether you're into architecture, music, cuisine or just wandering without a map, Lisbon offers something for every kind of traveller.

(280 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 5

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently took part in a cultural workshop organised by your local community centre. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for an online student newsletter.

Write a review describing the event, what you learned, and whether you would recommend it to other students.

Review: Discovering Flamenco – More Than Just Dance

When I signed up for a flamenco workshop at my local community centre, I expected an entertaining afternoon at most. What I experienced, however, was a deeply immersive encounter with Spanish culture that far exceeded my expectations—and left a lasting impression.

The workshop was led by a professional dancer from Seville, whose passion and charisma set the tone from the very beginning. We started with a short but engaging introduction to the history and social roots of flamenco, tracing its development from a regional tradition to an internationally recognised art form. This context gave the experience real depth and made the dancing feel meaningful rather than superficial.

The practical part was accessible even for complete beginners. We learned basic footwork, posture and hand movements, gradually building up to a simple routine. What stood out most was the emphasis on expression—how flamenco is as much about attitude, emotion and storytelling as it is about technique. Our instructor often reminded us that we were not just moving, but communicating.

The session also included live music: a guitarist and a singer joined us during the final part, adding authenticity and energy. Even those who were hesitant at first became visibly more confident, and the atmosphere by the end was joyful and inclusive.

If there was one drawback, it was the size of the group. With nearly thirty participants, there was limited time for individual feedback. However, the instructor managed the class with humour and encouragement, making everyone feel seen and supported.

I would strongly recommend this type of cultural workshop to any student, particularly those interested in language, performance or global traditions. It offers a rare chance to explore a culture from the inside out, and to connect through movement, music and emotion. In just two hours, I gained not only new skills but genuine admiration for a beautiful and powerful art form.

(312 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 6

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently attended a contemporary theatre performance with your class. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school magazine.

Write a review describing the play, what you thought of it, and whether you would recommend it.

Review: Disconnected – Theatre That Reflects Our Reality

If you think theatre is outdated or disconnected from modern life, Disconnected will prove you wrong. Performed by an emerging local company in a small black-box venue, this play about technology and human connection was one of the most surprising, relevant and emotionally honest productions I’ve seen in years.

The plot centres on four strangers who live in the same building but rarely interact, until a sudden internet blackout forces them to connect in person. What begins as awkward encounters evolves into moments of empathy, humour and tension, exposing the ways we hide behind screens to avoid real intimacy. The play cleverly mirrors the audience’s own behaviours, which made it especially impactful.

The script was sharp, witty and refreshingly natural, filled with realistic dialogue that never felt forced. There were no elaborate sets—just minimal props and shifting lighting—but the creative use of sound design and carefully timed silences brought real atmosphere and emotional weight to each scene. Background noises like phone vibrations and distant sirens were used to build tension or highlight emotional distance between characters.

The acting was consistently strong, but one performance in particular stood out. The actor portraying the socially anxious coder created a compelling and multilayered character, whose transformation over the course of the play was both believable and moving. His monologue near the end received spontaneous applause and was a highlight of the evening.

If I had to criticise anything, it would be the somewhat abrupt ending. The final scene felt rushed, and a bit more resolution would have helped wrap up the emotional arcs more completely.

That said, I would highly recommend Disconnected to students and young adults, especially those curious about how digital life affects human interaction. It’s rare to find theatre that feels so immediate and relevant—you’ll leave the show reflecting on your own connections, both online and off.

(310 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 7

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently visited a contemporary art exhibition as part of a class project. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school’s online newsletter.

Write a review describing the exhibition, what you thought of it, and whether you would recommend it.

📝 Review: Shifting Perspectives – A Bold Exploration of Modern Identity

Contemporary art can often be hit-or-miss, but Shifting Perspectives, a recent exhibition at the Modern Gallery, delivered a powerful, immersive and thought-provoking experience. Curated by emerging artist Maya León, the show explored themes of identity, memory and perception through a bold combination of sound, image and interaction.

The exhibition space itself felt like an installation, with low lighting, ambient sounds and projected visuals that reacted to the movement of visitors. One particularly striking piece featured dozens of suspended mirrors etched with handwritten memories collected from anonymous participants. This created an intimate atmosphere, inviting each viewer to reflect on their own experiences while literally seeing themselves in the artwork.

What impressed me most was the range of artistic mediums on display: photography, sculpture, video, live performance and even digital interaction through an app developed specifically for the show. Each room presented a distinct sensory experience, yet everything was connected by the underlying question: how do we construct identity in a world of constant visual input?

That said, some works may not appeal to those seeking clear narrative or explanation. The exhibition prioritises emotional impact over literal meaning, and not every visitor will feel comfortable with ambiguity. However, short texts beside each piece provided helpful context without being overly didactic.

One area for improvement would be the lack of a guided audio option, especially for those unfamiliar with contemporary art. While freedom of interpretation was refreshing, a curated narrative could have added depth and helped visitors make fuller connections between works.

Overall, I would strongly recommend Shifting Perspectives to anyone interested in the intersection between art and social psychology. This is not just an exhibition to look at—it’s one to feel, question, and remember. It challenges viewers to reconsider how they see others, and how they see themselves.

(297 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 8

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently watched a documentary as part of a school project on global issues. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school magazine.

Write a review describing the documentary, what you learned from it, and whether you would recommend it to other students.

Review: The Social Dilemma – A Wake-Up Call We Can’t Ignore

If you’ve ever wondered how social media affects your thoughts, habits, and even your sense of self, The Social Dilemma provides disturbing but essential answers. This eye-opening documentary blends interviews with former tech insiders and dramatic reenactments to expose the hidden mechanisms behind the platforms we use every day—and rarely question.

What makes the film particularly impactful is the credibility of its sources. We hear from former executives and engineers at major tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter—individuals who helped build the very systems they now criticise. Many of them speak with disarming honesty about the unintended consequences of their work. They explain, in accessible terms, how algorithms are used to monitor, predict and manipulate user behaviour, often in subtle ways we barely notice.

Intercut with the interviews is a fictional narrative depicting a typical family affected by social media addiction. While the acting is serviceable at best, these scenes help visualise real-world issues like teen depression, online radicalisation, and broken attention spans.

The documentary doesn’t just point fingers—it educates. It reveals why fake news spreads faster than truth, how polarisation is amplified by recommendation engines, and what this means for public discourse and mental health. The editing is dynamic, the pacing effective, and the message urgent.

If there’s a flaw, it’s the tone. The film tends toward alarmism, and a more balanced look at positive innovation in the tech world could have strengthened its credibility and left viewers feeling more empowered.

Nevertheless, I would strongly recommend The Social Dilemma to any student interested in digital media, ethics, or psychology. It’s not just a documentary—it’s a reality check. Once you see how much influence your feed has over you, you may never scroll quite the same way again.

(293 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 9

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently watched a film that stood out for its visual style and storytelling. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school magazine.

Write a review describing the film, analysing its strengths and weaknesses, and saying whether you would recommend it.

Review: The Grand Budapest Hotel – A Visual Feast with a Heart

It’s not often that a film manages to be hilarious, visually stunning, and unexpectedly touching all at once, but The Grand Budapest Hotel achieves that rare combination. Directed by Wes Anderson, this quirky comedy-drama tells the story of Monsieur Gustave, a legendary hotel concierge, and Zero, his loyal apprentice, as they become entangled in a whirlwind of murder, art theft and war—set against the backdrop of a fictional European republic.

What immediately stands out is the film’s unmistakable visual identity. Every frame feels like a painting, composed with near-obsessive precision. The pastel palette, symmetrical camera angles and miniaturised model sets create a whimsical, almost storybook atmosphere. Anderson’s stylised aesthetic might not be to everyone’s taste, but it’s undeniably one of the most visually original films of the past decade.

The performances are equally noteworthy. Ralph Fiennes is outstanding as Gustave, blending arrogance, charm and deep vulnerability. His comedic timing is impeccable, and his rapid-fire delivery contrasts beautifully with moments of unexpected tenderness. Tony Revolori, as the young bellboy, provides a grounded, quietly moving counterbalance, and their on-screen chemistry drives much of the emotional resonance.

The film’s structure is multilayered, told through a series of nested flashbacks. While this could easily feel convoluted, it actually enhances the film’s themes of memory, nostalgia and the fleeting nature of elegance and civilisation. Some viewers might find the tonal shifts—from farce to melancholy—unsettling, but this blend is part of what gives the story its emotional complexity.

Ultimately, The Grand Budapest Hotel is more than a stylish comedy—it’s a tribute to storytelling itself. Beneath the eccentricity lies a reflection on friendship, loyalty and the beauty of small moments.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this film to anyone with an eye for design or a love for character-driven tales. It’s a rare gem that manages to be both playful and profound.

(308 words)

✍️ Review C2 – Ejemplo 10

Part 2 – Writing
Write your answer in 280–320 words in an appropriate style.

You recently read a non-fiction book that made you think differently about something. Your teacher has asked you to write a review for the school blog.

Write a review describing the book, explaining what you learned from it, and saying whether you would recommend it.

Review: Educated – A Memoir of Defiance, Discovery and Identity

Some books entertain, others inform—but a rare few change how you see the world. Educated by Tara Westover belongs to that last category. This memoir chronicles the author’s journey from growing up in a survivalist family in rural Idaho—with no formal education—to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.

The story is as gripping as any novel, yet every detail is true. Westover was raised by parents who distrusted institutions, including schools and hospitals. As a result, she never entered a classroom until the age of seventeen. The book details her struggle to educate herself, facing not only academic challenges but emotional and psychological ones, as she began questioning her identity and loyalty to her family.

What makes Educated so powerful is its honesty. Westover never paints herself as a victim or hero, but rather as someone constantly torn between two worlds. Her writing is lyrical without being sentimental, and her ability to reflect on traumatic experiences with clarity and grace is remarkable.

The memoir raises important questions about education, truth, and the power of perspective. It also challenges assumptions about what it means to be “educated.” Is it knowledge, critical thinking, or the courage to think for yourself?

If there is a minor drawback, it’s the emotional intensity. Some scenes are so raw that they can be difficult to read, especially those involving violence or manipulation. That said, these moments are essential to understanding her journey.

I would strongly recommend Educated to anyone interested in personal growth, psychology or the transformative power of learning. It is not just a story about school—it’s about the human capacity to redefine one’s life through knowledge and self-awareness.