The Reader

A fine example of both Ralph and Kate's ability. A difficult love story that goes beyond normal physical/emotional love. Be prepared for cringe, heartache, but above all else yearning. Yearning for the happy ending that seems impossible. You will come to the conclusion that you will accept closure and absolution as an acceptable compromise.

Once the viewer has travelled past the stage-setting erotic images, the angst of the heroine becomes very vivid. Hers is a supremely formidable intellect shackeled by the inability to READ!! Ther is also a smidgeon of "Third Reich" mystic in her initial defense of the total lack of empathy shown to the early incineration of the victims of the "Final Solution" with which she is charged. The contrast of the failure of her lover to attempt any rescue is also descriptive of post-WW2 Germany. The cinematography is excellent, but the time shifting can be a little confusing. In total, the film-and Winslet's portrail--are Oscar-worthy.

Liked it! You will have to get past the sex and nudity in the beginning that sets the relationships. I had to stop the movie but couldn't wait to get back to it to see where it was going. Makes you think about what is important to you and consequences of your decisions.

This is a great movie because of Ralph Fiennes and Kate Winslet.Unfortunately, the character of the "young kid" (16 year old) is portrayed by a different actor.It is a capable performance, but just not Ralph Fiennes.There is some pretty raw sexuality in the first 45 minutes of the movie that may not appeal to some viewers.But if you stay with it the plot will take you someplace you totally never expected.

Good movie to watch and discuss. I had no idea what the movie was about before watching it. The first hour -- more or less -- don't quote me on the time, was really misleading. It moves from what looks like it may be some sort of melodramatic romance movie into a more serious topic. I thought it was well done, including poetic justice.

Good movie

I didn't have any idea what this movie was about. That was the best way to watch the plot unfold. Kate Winslet was great. At the end, the jailer said she had no intention of leaving. Maybe I'm a romantic, but I think things would have turned out differently if the hero had showed the slightest emotional connection with her. But of course he couldn't, and that was the point of the film. Very well made movie that gives you a lot to think about.

Good movie about love & romance between a young man & a much older woman. Off beat message about illiteracy & the time enduring quality of heartfelt relationships. The power of helping people overcome fundamental challenges also rings through. Of course every movie has twists if they properly represent life...This is no different but you will have to watch it to find out.

Excellent movie!There is some nudity, which may disturb some people. Most interesting was the mental attitude of some of the individuals. I do not want to say more or it may give too much of the story away. It was hard to decide if it was a 4 or 5 star.

What do you call a film with nudity, excitement, valor, sadness, and winner of an academy award. You may not like all the nudity yet the storyline forgets the indecent nudes and you concentrate on what this film portrays. 300 murders.