The Reader Movie Review (2008)

The Reader is not at all what I thought it would be. Two imperfect people at different times of their lives, still connected, but still strangers. I found it captivating.

I absolutely love when I go into a movie blind and it turns out to be something so spellbinding that I am not only completely satisfied while watching it, but I can’t stop thinking about it afterward. Those are the gems.

The Reader is about Michael Berg who, as a young man of 15, meets an older woman named Hannah who helps him when he is sick, and they proceed to have a sexual relationship for several months. After the affair, they encounter each other several times – once by accident, when he observes a court trial in which she is the defendant for her actions during the Holocaust, and the second time, on purpose.

This movie (based on a book of the same name) is fascinating. The premise is unusual and gives a perspective of war crimes from a very different vantage point than most films offer.

You find Hannah somewhat sympathetic, but you fight yourself because you can see the awful choices that she makes with full justification. In your gut, you know things are wrong, but the film sets the scenarios up so that you find yourself with lurking pity for her – much like Michael’s experience.

Michael, who is clearly a victim due to his age during the “affair” with this older woman, leaves a trail of people in his wake. He is scarred, but even he isn’t aware of how much or how his history has affected him.

It is the story of two flawed people, both holding secrets – some obvious, some hidden. You know almost nothing about Hannah, but she has a huge impact – on both you and Michael.

I connected with this film greatly. There are a good many secrets to learn and I won’t tell you what they are here. Watch the film and then come back and talk to me. I would love to discuss it.

Runtime: 124 minutes

Motion Picture Rating: R

Languages Spoken In The Film: English, German, and Latin with English subtitles

Should You Watch It? Yes, definitely

Did I Cry? No, but I was captivated

My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Available: To rent on Prime Video or may be available for free on other streaming platforms