Unforgettable Film!

Rating: 9/10 (25 December 2013)

The Reader is a powerful film that delivers a gut-wrenching story and some powerful acting. This was the film that gave Kate Winslet her long overdue Oscar and boy did she ever deserve it. This film has many themes including eroticism, love, and friendship. This movie is simply not meant to be a tearjerker, but don't be surprised if you feel a tear or two.
Stephen Daldry's film is set in two phases. The first phase is a tale of romance that blossoms between a 15-year-old boy and a 36-year-old woman. The next phase is a gut-wrenching court case involving the woman, Hanna as one of the defendants for taking part in some heinous crimes as a member of the SS.
The acting is very, very powerful. Kate Winslet delivers a masterful performance and you can't expect more out of her. Her facial expressions and cold, stern manner truly defines the hardness of her character. Ralph Fiennes does a solid job as the older Michael Berg whilst the guy who played the younger Berg was so-so.
Overall, this is a great film that will surely wrench your gut. The final hour is very hard to watch as we a submission to guilt and how it affects the love between two people. This film is well-acted and they story is well-written. Despite Kate Winslet's bravo performance, it's really hard to sympathize with her character because of the crimes she performed. This is one powerful film. I rate this film 9/10.