This is Germany 1938 and young Liesel (Sophie Nelisse) adopted by Hans (Geoffrey Rush) and Rosa (Emily Watson) who explain that her birth mother “Would have kept you if she could have.” Says young Liesel to her classmates “Just because I can’t read doesn’t mean I’m stupid.” And so a special bond with her Papa (Rush) begins. He teaches her to read and she begins to find solace amidst the horrors of World War II Germany, by stealing books that she’ll share with others. This must be the reason that the library card was invented.
She bonds with her family friend, Max- a young Jewish refugee being concealed in the basement.
Feeling part “Heidi” meets the Von Trapp family in a dark Sound of Music they don’t make movies like this anymore. ..a film without 3D, special effects, swearing, violence of the belaboring type, or even sex. A simple kiss will suddenly have such rich significance. The movie rides on its depth of heart and soul through the naïve and inquisitive eyes of young Liesel part vulnerable and part confident.
This is an intelligent film for moviegoers, brought to you by the same people who did Life of Pi where inner turmoil provokes action and in this case, the backdrop of the film is grainy, so it’s the performances and direction of Brian Percival (Downton Abbey) that brings the Nazi-era film to life.
Sorry 12 Years a Slave, you were the best movie, but while you’re great you’re so sad. 12 Years a Slave lacks that sweeping journey that’s just been stolen… by the Book Thief. ♔ ♕ ♚ ♛