Viewed through the eyes of Liesel, (Sophie Nelisse), a young girl beginning a new life with foster parents, we see her trying to make sense of World War II. From her new small town she learns how to read and seeks solace in books. Meanwhile, her strict stepmother, (Emily Watson) and kind hearted stepfather (Geoffrey Rush) take in a young Jewish boy who hides in their basement.
In other words…
Anne Frank through the eyes of a Nazi youth.
The main men and leading ladies…
Looking like a young Drew Barrymore, Nelisse is certainly one to watch out for. Her delicate yet strong portrayal of Liesel conveyed just how confusing and challenging life was like for a young girl in Germany at that time. A typically excellent performance from Watson showed Rosa as the callous woman she was on the surface, and the touching show from Rush was lump of the throat stuff…even if you’re not a daddy’s girl.
In the chair…
Brian Percival is best known for his work on Downtown Abbey and was still working on the TV series when he began his first major cinematic offering. In fact, he was so much involved with the show he read the script to the movie before the novel and was instantly captured by the plot.
So…?
Being based on the novel it was always going to lack the depth of some characters – in this case Max being the main victim, but arguably Liesel’s friendship with her next door neighbour Rudy is even more touching. To view this era through the eyes of a German child is a refreshing take on a storyline that’s both deep and emotional. Interestingly narrated by Death (Roger Allam), the storyline immediately takes you on a tense journey. But despite the tears you’ll be choking back by the end, it will be remembered for its heart, soul and ultimate warmth through such a dark and chilling period.
Worth the money?
Yes, yes and yes again.
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