Movie Review Number 1: The Book Thief

I got so impressed with the production of the movie that's why I'm writing a good review of it even if I have not read the book itself.

THE BOOK THIEF  (2013)

Cast: Sophie Nelisse, Geoffrey Rush, Rudy Steiner, Ben Schnetzer

Director: Brian Percival 

Synopsis: The Book Thief revolves around the life of Liesel who was adopted by a childless German couple at the break of World War II.   The tough situations she had to suffer made her turn into reading books and created that desire in her to share them with others and eventually, even sharing her own stories of despair and triumphs with others. 

Review:  

The movie has a unique format because the story unfolds from the perspective of Death. In the story, Death is relating how he chooses his victims, so to speak, however, since it was the World War 2 era, Death was very relevant and everywhere. His first victim was Liesel's brother and the story becomes complicated after that.  

This is probably one of the war pictures that will keep you guessing what happens next as the scenes are very unpredictable.  The surprises keep coming and there is always a glimpse of how life continues despite Germany being in a state of war in those years.   

The characters in the movie all had an impact in the development of Liesel's character until the end when Death would eventually catch up with Liesel after the many brushes Liesel had with Death.  Liesel had lived her life well and had lived till maturity.  Her love for books guided her in the tough times she needed to endure.

The actors were perfect for their roles especially the young Liesel, who can camouflage her emotions easily.  Geoffrey Rush (a favorite of mine, especially in Quill) as the doting father and devoted husband was not overly dramatic and over-acting.  His underacting method worked very well, as the atmosphere was so strained like Death was just in the next corner.  


The story or plot is not really complicated itself, but the challenges of the characters were, so it is easy watching, if you ask me.  The plot is a simple narrative of what Germany was like in the war era and it's Death's humorous observation regarding his job, being the grim-reaper, that was somehow philosphical and highlighted in the entire movie.  It was Death that tied all ends up. 

I would recommend children (to be accompanied by parents or someone who can provide more explanation after) to see "The Book Thief" so that it will teach them the value of reading and know the role that books played in the life of the child Liesel.   


Rating:  Can be enjoyed by all ages, educational and informative.