What is it? The new film starring Geoffrey Rush that’s bound to tug on your heartstrings.
What’s It About? Liesel Meminger, a little girl sent to live with foster parents in Germany just before the outbreak of World War II.
Kids? World War II? Germany? This isn’t another Boy In The Striped Pyjamas situation is it? Not quite. It’s not that harrowing.
NOTHING is that harrowing. NOTHING: OK, calm down. It’s sad but it's not that sad. Promise.
So what happens to Liesel then? Basically Liesel's new foster father, played by Geoffrey Rush, teaches her to read. The problem is, she's only got one book, and the Nazis are having a ball getting rid of books left right and centre with their book-burning ceremonies. She does find a place to get them eventually, but it's a bit naughty.
Ah, the title suddenly makes sense. What else should we know about the film? Liesel's family harbour a Jew under their house, which makes for a few nail-biting moments.
What are people saying? 'Overall, the film’s strong performances overcome direction that could, and perhaps should, have taken more risks. The Book Thief tugs at the heartstrings and puts you right in the centre of Liesel’s journey, and provides an elegant portrayal of one of history’s most awful crimes.' – Entertainmentwise
What are we saying? You’re going to cry. Let’s just accept that. Sophie Nelisse is brilliant as Liesel, the wide-eyed and earnest little girl who guides us through the terrifying world she lives in with a childlike innocence. Geoffrey Rush is obviously brilliant as her foster father (it’s Geoffrey Rush, he’s always brilliant) but it’s Emily Watson, who plays Liesel’s grumpy foster mother that really gets our vote. Watching Liesel turn her from battleaxe to nurturing mother is something really special. Seriously, go and see but wear waterproof mascara.
Follow Jess on Twitter @jess_commons
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.