Rating M
An adaptation of author Markus Zusak’s novel of the same name, this World War II drama explores the turbulent Nazi reign through the eyes of a young orphaned girl, Liesel, who finds comfort in reading with her adoptive father.
Complex characters resist typical stereotypes, thanks to strong acting by the film’s leads, and seeing everyday struggles from within Germany offers a fresh perspective on the war. But the book’s unique narrator, Death, is very weakly transposed on to screen, leaving the viewer to feel confused and distracted.
Stars: 3/5
