Friday, April 18, 2014

The Book Thief

Caution: This Might Contain Spoilers!
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This film is based off the novel, of the same name, written by Markus Zusak. Liesel Meminger is taken to a new family and a new home in Germany during World War II. Liesel learns to read from her adoptive father, and finds comfort in stealing books. 

This film is directed by Brian Percival. Having not read the novel, I can not say how truthful the film is. The story of this film is very heartfelt and saddening. It takes the war era and gives it a wishful tone. This film contains all the fears that were experienced in Nazi Germany without making the full focus of the story. It keeps the horrors as secret; which makes the story more believable since it comes from a German child's perspective. The film does present a chilling view of how the Nazi's wanted to brainwash children to make them fight for their government. The film does keep a respectful image to those who had suffered during this time. The film is narrated by Death. Admittedly, in the opening Death reminded me of narrator for Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. Sophie Nelisse played the role of Liesel Meminger. She made her introverted character very likable. She was also able to convey a lot of emotion on screen. Unfortunately, they were unable to age her character well during the course of the film. Geoffrey Rush played the role of Hans Hubermann. He gave the film a child like spark, and light humor. Emily Watson played the role of Rosa Hubermann. She did great opposing Rush. It was easy to see her heart while she tried to be bitter. Ben Schnetzer played the role of Max Vandenburg. He did great in presenting the film's hidden darkness.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars! It is a great dark family film that tells about an era. It also shows that courage can exist in many forms.

Answer to last blog: Actress Rinko Kikuchi, 47 Ronin, also starred in the film Brother's Blomm.

Que: Who was the narrator, or the voice of Death, in this film?

Stephen Fry
Geoffrey Holder
Roger Allam 
Ricky Gervais

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