Moving and unexpected

Rating: 10/10 (11 May 2014)

There are quite a few surprising things about this movie.
Firstly it's not childish at all. The title and poster seem to imply that it's a children's movie about the war and books. Although the central character is a child - it's not a childish movie at all. It's a movie for adults too. And books aren't the main thing.
Secondly although there is a Jewish character, the Holocaust is not the main subject here. Rather it's about good Germans - civilians who were just helplessly caught up in the events.
Thirdly it's very moving and quite emotional in an unexpected way.
Fourthly the acting is good. Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson are always good. Sophie Nelisse is cute and not annoying at all. Her acting is just right - restrained but effective.
Overall this was one of the most moving less violent WWII movies ever made and deserved more acclaim than it got. Liked it more than Life is Beautiful, Boy in the Striped Pajamas etc.