Review of The Reader (2008) by Jim F — 09 Sep 2012
Kate Winslet is unbelievably good in this seductive, smart, and enticing film. I like the way it pulls the viewer in one direction for about the first hour and then completely turns around for the remainder of its running time. Ralph Fiennes does a great job of using simple facial expressions to tell the story, but the story doesn't really need telling when it's done this well. I was touched by the ending and I knew that I had never seen another movie like it. That said, there is some predictability here and there are some moments that the viewer feels could have been left on the cutting room floor, but it's still a very, very good movie about racial indifferences and fighting for what you believe in.
Critics who agree:
Carrie Rickey, Philidelphia Inquirer: "With this film Daldry, previously the director of "Billy Elliot" and "The Hours," proves himself the screen's reigning master at showing passion thwarted or repressed. 3 stars.".
Peter Rainer, Christian Science Monitor: "Fiennes brings to the role a shimmering subtlety. 3 stars.".
Peter Travers, Rolling Stone: "Winslet's fierce, unerring portrayal goes beyond acting, becoming a provocation that will keep you up nights. 3 stars.".
Claudia Puig, USA Today: "Though the effort is uneven, it's a well-acted romance that becomes a less compelling courtroom drama. 3 stars.".
This review of The Reader (2008) was written by Jim F on 09 Sep 2012.
The Reader has generally received positive reviews.
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