The English Teacher (2020) - AWARD WINNING Short Film | Drama

Blake Ridder

22 May 202012:15

Summary

TLDRIn a dramatic twist, a student named Jin Ying, who is learning English from his teacher Robert, reveals a shocking secret. Initially, the conversation revolves around basic English phrases and expressions, with Jin Ying showing eagerness to learn and improve. However, the tone shifts dramatically when Jin Ying confesses to being the cause of a tragic accident involving Robert's wife, Amelia. The revelation comes with an offer of financial compensation and an apology, adding a layer of complexity to their teacher-student relationship.

Takeaways

📚 The script is a dialogue between Jin Ying, a student, and Robert, her English teacher.
🗣️ Jin Ying is learning English and has an upcoming exam in two weeks, which is why she is seeking help from Robert.
🔠 Jin Ying initially struggles with basic English phrases and pronunciation, but Robert helps her practice.
🚗 Robert mentions being late due to London traffic, indicating his location and the common issue of traffic in the city.
🙏 Jin Ying expresses gratitude to Robert for his teaching and shows improvement in her English skills.
💰 There is a misunderstanding where Jin Ying offers Robert money, which he refuses, indicating ethical standards as a teacher.
🎓 Jin Ying suggests that if she passes the exam, Robert should keep the money, but Robert sees this as a bribe and does not accept it.
😢 Towards the end of the script, Jin Ying reveals a tragic secret: she was involved in the accident that led to the death of Robert's wife, Amelia.
🚨 Jin Ying's confession implies guilt and a desire to make amends, offering to send money to Robert as a form of compensation.
🤝 Despite the shocking revelation, Jin Ying refers to herself as Robert's friend, indicating a complex relationship dynamic.
📝 The script explores themes of language learning, cultural misunderstandings, ethics, and the consequences of one's actions.

Q & A

Who is Jin Ying in the script?
-Jin Ying is a student who is learning English from Robert, the teacher.
What is the reason Jin Ying gives for wanting to learn English?
-Jin Ying wants to learn English because they have an English exam in two weeks.
What does Jin Ying initially use to communicate in English?
-Jin Ying initially uses a translator to communicate in basic English.
What is the first exercise Robert asks Jin Ying to do in English?
-The first exercise Robert asks Jin Ying to do is to repeat after him, stating their name.
What is the misunderstanding that occurs when Robert is late?
-Jin Ying misunderstands the word 'pardon' and uses it incorrectly, thinking it's a way to ask for a repeat of something.
What does Jin Ying offer to Robert in exchange for English lessons?
-Jin Ying offers to transfer 700 pounds to Robert, which is implied as a bribe.
Why does Robert refuse to accept the money from Jin Ying?
-Robert refuses the money because he believes it is a bribe and it's not ethical for him to accept it.
What is the shocking revelation Jin Ying makes at the end of the script?
-Jin Ying reveals that they were the one who caused the accident that resulted in the death of Robert's wife, Amelia.
How does Jin Ying attempt to make amends for the accident?
-Jin Ying attempts to make amends by offering to send money to Robert and by learning English to communicate their remorse.
What is the emotional impact of Jin Ying's confession on Robert?
-The emotional impact is profound, as it brings Robert face to face with the person responsible for his wife's death.
What is the final message Jin Ying tries to convey to Robert?
-Jin Ying's final message is an apology and an attempt to express friendship, despite the tragic circumstances.

Outlines

00:00

🗣️ English Learning Introduction

In this paragraph, we are introduced to a conversation between Jin Ying, a student, and Robert, her English teacher. Jin Ying expresses her desire to learn English and mentions an upcoming exam in two weeks. Robert begins teaching her basic English phrases, such as introducing oneself, and they engage in a practice session. The interaction is friendly, and Jin Ying shows gratitude for Robert's help.

05:05

🤔 Misunderstandings and Moral Dilemmas

This paragraph delves into a series of misunderstandings and a surprising revelation. The dialogue starts with a lesson on socializing phrases, but it quickly takes a turn when Jin Ying offers Robert money, which he refuses, recognizing it as a bribe. The conversation culminates in a shocking confession where Jin Ying admits to being involved in an accident with Robert's wife, Amelia, which resulted in her death. Jin Ying's intention to compensate Robert with money and learn English to express his remorse is revealed.

10:07

😔 A Tragic Confession and Friendship's Test

The final paragraph presents a dramatic and emotional confession from Jin Ying, who admits to being the cause of Robert's wife's death. He expresses his remorse and attempts to make amends by offering to send money, which Robert has already refused earlier. The paragraph ends on a somber note, with Jin Ying claiming to be Robert's friend despite the tragic circumstances, leaving the audience to ponder the complexity of their relationship and the weight of the confession.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡English teacher

An 'English teacher' is a professional who instructs students in the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills. In the script, Robert, the English teacher, is helping Jin Ying improve her English, which is central to the theme of language learning and cultural exchange.

💡translator

A 'translator' is someone who converts written or spoken content from one language to another. The script mentions the use of a 'translator translator,' indicating the reliance on technology to bridge language gaps, which is a significant aspect of the story as Jin Ying learns English.

💡English exam

An 'English exam' is a test designed to evaluate a person's proficiency in the English language. The script reveals that Jin Ying has an English exam in two weeks, which is a driving force behind her desire to learn English quickly and effectively.

💡basics

The term 'basics' refers to the fundamental elements or principles of a subject. In the context of the script, Robert starts teaching Jin Ying the basics of English, such as introducing oneself, which is essential for beginners learning a new language.

💡repeat after me

To 'repeat after me' is a common instruction used by teachers to help students practice pronunciation and mimic the correct way of speaking. In the script, Robert uses this phrase to guide Jin Ying in learning English phrases, emphasizing the interactive nature of language learning.

💡friend

A 'friend' is a person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically one exclusive of sexual or family relations. The script uses the term 'friend' in a language lesson context and later in a dramatic twist, where the relationship between Jin Ying and Robert takes on a deeper, more complex meaning.

💡pardon

'Pardon' is a polite request for someone to repeat something they have said, often because it was not heard or understood clearly. In the script, the misunderstanding of 'pardon' leads to a humorous moment and also serves as a cultural lesson in English communication.

💡bribe

A 'bribe' is a sum of money or another form of payment given or received in exchange for favors, especially one that is illegal or unethical. The script includes a conversation about a transfer of money that Robert perceives as a bribe, highlighting ethical considerations in professional relationships.

💡exam results

'Exam results' refer to the outcomes or grades received after taking an examination. The script mentions keeping the money if Jin Ying passes her exam, tying the stakes of her language learning journey to a tangible reward or consequence.

💡sorry

To express 'sorry' is to convey regret, sympathy, or a polite acknowledgment of a mistake or offense. In the script, the word 'sorry' is used in multiple contexts, from a simple apology for a minor mistake to a profound expression of remorse for a life-altering event.

💡accident

An 'accident' is an unforeseen and unplanned event or circumstance often resulting in injury or damage. The script concludes with the revelation of an accident involving Jin Ying, which is a pivotal moment that adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Highlights

Jin Ying introduces herself and her reason for learning English - preparing for an English exam in two weeks.

Robert, the English teacher, agrees to teach Jin Ying and starts with basic English phrases.

Jin Ying practices repeating her name and asking 'What is your name?' with Robert's guidance.

Robert corrects Jin Ying's pronunciation and encourages her progress.

Jin Ying learns the word 'pardon' and its usage in English conversation.

Robert clarifies his role as a teacher, not accepting money from Jin Ying.

Jin Ying offers money to Robert as a bribe, which he refuses.

Jin Ying expresses gratitude for Robert's teaching and her improvement in English.

Jin Ying reveals she was the driver involved in the accident that killed Robert's wife Amelia.

Jin Ying expresses remorse and offers to send money to Robert as compensation.

Robert is shocked and saddened by the revelation of Jin Ying's role in his wife's death.

Jin Ying tries to connect with Robert by calling herself his friend.

The conversation highlights the complexity of language learning, cultural misunderstandings, and personal connections.

Robert's patience and teaching methods are demonstrated through the dialogue.

Jin Ying's determination to learn English despite her tragic past is evident.

The transcript explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the power of communication.