The Reader

Like so many other movies about events and people involved with World War II genocide, the Holocaust, this movie may be difficult for some to watch. Not difficult in the "Sofie's Choice" sense or "Schindler's List", but more in same way as "The Good German" or "Downfall".

Don't get me wrong, there are funny parts, and touching parts. But overall, this is a bit of a disturbing story. The main characters are seriously flawed individuals, but likable just the same. It is easy, more or less, to relate to the boy and his older female lover. Both are needy and yet each is using the other. It is only late in the story that the audience discovers just how much.

Kate Winslet deserves all the praise and recognition showered for her performance here. This is the type to great work that legends come from. Ralph Fiennes is as complex here as his English Patient character. Young David Kross is amazing here and I hope we see him again soon on the big screen.

This story is not very fast-moving, but is very well-told. Nominated for Directing, Cinematography, Writing, AND Best Picture all attest to how well.

Watch this movie with someone who enjoys keeping a secret.