THE READER: REVIEW
Secrets
and lies are explored with a burst of erotica in this complex tale starring the
amazing Kate Winslet. Rightly Oscar nominated for this solid role, she plays Hanna
Schmitz, a stern but attentive woman that randomly comes to the aid of a boy in
the street who is physically ill. It's post World War 2 Germany and the boy is
suffering from scarlet fever. Time passes and after a full recovery, he goes back
to thank his would-be saviour.
Young and innocent Michael may
be only half her age, but an affair begins, mostly penetration with only brief
conversation. Soon he is required to read to her from a variety of classic novels
as a kind of foreplay which counteracts Hannah's natural seductive instincts.
During these early encounters, there is an abundance of nudity. However, the scenes
would rightly not be described as sexy, but dull. Two lost souls that share an
intense frivolity that is not known to anybody else.
She refuses
to speak of her past. He really wants to know more but is refused any insight.
They do grow close and form a unique bond. In what appears as a state of intellectual
curiosity, Michael falls for the older woman which only sparks a downward spiral
to the forbidden relationship. The virtue and love gets tough ending things abruptly.
A
decade later, now a law student, Michael encounters his former lover as she defends
herself on trial for war crimes. As an alleged former Nazi guard, Hannah is under
siege from the court and the public. Brought to the screen from a both celebrated
and controversial 1995 German novel, director Stephen Daldry and his playwright
partner David hare have crafted an articulate movie full of moral dilemmas and
heart rending dignity.
Slipping in and out of time-frames during
the 1950's & 1990's, the fierce and unnerving portrayal from Winslet goes
beyond acting. She commands an air of reality to the touchy subject matter. Ralph
Feinnes as the adult Michael in a set of fluid flashbacks is a man of torment.
It's another great recent performance from the once wooden actor now on a hat-trick
after impressive turns in 'The Duchess' and 'In Bruges'.
An
imperative scene towards the end of the film he shares with the veteran Swedish
actress Lena Olin is compelling drama that will divide viewers with sympathy and
despair of the holocaust circumstances.
Thought provoking
and interesting, Kate Winslet is unforgettable. Do not miss it!
Shane
A. Bassett
