The Reader

Watched The Reader with Derrick, Edwin and Shiqi at vivo today. The synopsis and review are as follows.

Michael Berg becomes ill and is helped home by Hanna, a stranger twice his age. Michael recovers from scarlet fever and seeks out Hanna to thank her. The two are quickly drawn into a passionate but secretive affair. Michael discovers that Hanna loves being read to and their physical relationship deepens. Despite their intense bond, Hanna mysteriously disappears one day and Michael is left confused and heartbroken. Eight years later, while Michael is a law student observing the Nazi war crime trials, he is stunned to find Hanna back in his life - this time as a defendant in the courtroom. As Hanna's past is revealed, Michael uncovers a deep secret that will impact both of their lives. The Reader is a story about truth and reconciliation, about how one generation comes to terms with the crimes of another.

I must say that i am very impressed with Kate Winslet and David Kross acting chops. Their performances definitely deserve more than two thumbs up for me. The affair is torrid, passionate and definitely engrossing with the gaping differences in their personalities as well as the huge difference in their age. The story is immensely engaging with the strong character developments and the fluid movie progression.

There is even on-site location shooting of the Auschwitz and Birkenau Camps in Poland. This movie tells audiences of a man whose life is changed forever due to his meeting with Hanna. It is richly layered, full of subtle emotions, subdued passion and longing. The impressive performances, the engrossing storyline, the lovely score, and the assured direction explain why this movie is nominated for Best Picture in the Academy Awards this year.

****

We had a fervent discussion after the movie and we cleared most of the doubts that we had over some of the actions taken by the actors and actresses in the movie.

Trailer for The Reader