Movie Review The Reader (2008)

 

The Reader | 2008 | 2h 4m
Genre: Period Drama/Steamy Romance/Drama/Mystery/Romance | Country: US - Germany
Director: Stephen Daldry | Writers: David Hare, Bernhard Schlink
Cast: Kate Winslet, David Kross, Ralph Fiennes, Bruno Ganz
IMDB: 7.6
My Rate: 9/10

Michael unexpectedly reunites with Hanna, his teenage love, under unforeseen circumstances when she is on trial for her crimes, after she abruptly disappears from his life.

Warnings:

Contains sexual content, nudity, and suicide.

 

Synopsis:

Michael (David Kross) feels unwell and decides to get off the tram he is riding. Hanna (Kate Winslet), the tram ticket inspector, accidentally finds him taking shelter in the building where she lives. Hanna helps clean Michael and takes him home.

Michael turns out to have scarlet fever and has to stay home for three months. After feeling better, Michael decides to visit Hanna and thank her. However, the encounter doesn't end well, as Hanna catches Michael peeking at her while changing clothes. Michael runs away.

The next day, Michael visits Hanna again. Hanna asks Michael to help her to bring coal to her house. Michael is covered in coal dust. Hanna offers to let Michael clean himself up at her place.

Hanna realizes Michael is attracted to her and opens the door for a relationship beyond mere acquaintance. A romantic relationship blossoms between them, and they spend a lot of time together. However, conflict arises after Michael returns to school and spends more time with his friends.

Hanna decides to leave, abandoning everything, including Michael, who is heartbroken. There is no clear explanation for Hanna's departure, but Michael feels guilty about it. This is amplified by an argument they had on Michael's birthday before her departure. There is no information about Hanna's whereabouts until years later, when Michael unexpectedly finds her.

Michael, who is studying law, participates in a seminar program. This program takes them to witness a trial related to Nazi crimes and a fire that killed 300 prisoners. Hanna is one of the defendants in this case.

Michael is shocked and secretly follows the case. However, everything points against Hanna, and she is found guilty. Michael learns some information that could save Hanna, but it would reveal their secret relationship.

Will Michael help Hanna clear her name?

 

Review:

The Reader is a film adapted from the novel of the same name by Bernhard Schlink, published in 1995. Based on the novel, this film explores a heavy and sensitive theme, the aftermath of the war in Germany. The story is wrapped in a teenage romance and various metaphors related to the issues prevalent in society at that time.

The romantic relationship depicted is somewhat sensitive as it involves a minor. The main character, Michael, is 15 years old and involved with Hanna, who is 36. This relationship can be considered somewhat inappropriate.

The casting choices for the respective characters are also a bit tricky. This is because many scenes show nudity and intimacy between the two. Kate Winslet was 33 years old at the time, and David Kross was only 18. It was quite brave of David Kross to take on this role, considering his age and the implications.

Both actors deliver captivating performances. Not only the main characters but also the supporting actors deliver optimal performances, fitting their roles perfectly. Everything flows beautifully.

The development of the story's background and characters is done exceptionally well. Both characters are depicted with their own problems. Michael is attracted to Hanna and feels he gets what he needs from her, possibly because he has trauma related to his family. Similarly, Hanna finds what she needs in Michael.

The conflict arises when Michael, still a teenager, spends a lot of time with his friends, creating distance in his relationship with Hanna. The conflict development is also done very well. The character development of each character is clearly visible.

The resolution of the story is also done very well, although slightly different from the novel. However, it is still acceptable. While the story uses a slow pace, it doesn't feel boring. It becomes an essential element for viewers to understand and immerse themselves in the story.

A crucial issue implied in this film is about the less educated, depicted through Hanna's character. If we understand the reasons behind Hanna's hiding her inability to read and write, we can understand her actions. From her decision not to accept a promotion, her departure from Michael, and even accepting accusations she didn't commit. This implies how shameful that status was.

The makeup of the characters is excellent. Michael at university looks different from teenage Michael, even though the same actor plays both roles. The age difference in Hanna is also visible and looks natural. The choice of actor for adult Michael also has some resemblance in facial features to young Michael.

One minor drawback is the lack of clarity regarding how the victim who wrote the book survived the fire. It is mentioned that the fire occurred in a locked church, preventing people from escaping. So how did they escape the fire? Additionally, there is no incriminating testimony against other suspects; only Hanna appears to be cornered.

Also, Hanna's house seems a bit illogical. How is it that the door is never closed, and everyone can easily enter? Especially considering the rooms inside don't have partitions between the bedroom, bathroom, etc.

Overall, this film has an engaging storyline and delivers a presentation that exceeds expectations. If you enjoy stories with romance themes and a hint of political background, this film might be a good addition to your watchlist.

 

Memorable Scene:

Michael, who seems indifferent, still harbors feelings for Hanna. When the judge reads the verdict on the charges against Hanna, Michael unknowingly sheds tears. This scene shows that sincere affection never disappears, especially when we realize that the person we love is not as accused.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

"I prefer being read to."

 
Ending:

Sad Ending

 

Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna)