A movie narrated by whimsical “Death” and set in Nazi Germany probably isn’t what you had in mind for this holiday season….
But THE BOOK THIEF, based on Marcus Zusak’s best selling novel, is a fascinating story of a young girl named Liesel who embarks on a journey marked by discovery, courage, friendship and the power to triumph over the most difficult human circumstances.
Make no mistake about it DEATH was extremely busy during those dark days.
Liesel, played by Canadian actress Sophie Nelisse, is uprooted and forced to live with a childless couple—kindhearted Geoffrey Rush and cranky Emily Watson.
Shades of Frau Blucher perhaps?
Against that backdrop Liesel befriends a jewish refugee who takes shelter in her new home. And then there is the budding love affair with the neighbor boy in bombed out surroundings
It’s a sentimental look at one of humanity’s lowest times……
Some may want to compare this film to THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK. Well, don’t.
It’s more of an exploration of the power of words—all backed by an unobtrusive musical score by John Williams.
As far as the film’s locations go it was filmed in Germany at Berlin’s fabled Babelsberg Studios.
And if some of the streets and locations appear familiar it’s because they are some of the same backlot locations used by Quentin Tarantino for his movie INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS.
I’m actually recommending this picture as an all FAMILY film as long as the kids are at least 12 years old.
THE BOOK THIEF grades out a B-.
(Reviewed at AMC Town Center)
JACK GOES TO THE MOVIES every Friday morning at 6:40 a.m. and 8:40 a.m. on KMBZ FM & AM / And anytime on Time-Warner Cable’s K.C. ON DEMAND, Channel 411.
Just what America has been asking for this Christmas season…another Holocaust movie.
Maybe Mel was partially right about them calling the shots. When you are celebrating the birth of Christ don’t forget to take in your quarterly Holocaust movie.