Editing a film is similar to editing a novel: To put the sentence in formal style, which is the best choice to replace the underlined phrase?

• A. a tearjerker that'll for sure grab the audience
• B. a yarn that's definitely gonna win awards
• C. a film that is guaranteed to rock
• D. a story that appeals to the audience

Answer: (D)

In formal writing, you pick language that is neutral, precise, and free of slang or exaggerated claims. The best replacement keeps the idea of a narrative that connects with an audience but uses standard, non-hyperbolic wording. “A story that appeals to the audience” fits this need: it uses a neutral noun, avoids contractions and casual terms, and states the effect in a measured way. The other options rely on informal words like tearjerker, yarn, and rock, or rely on emphatic adverbs like definitely or for sure, which pushes the tone away from formality and toward casual slang.