The Reader
Terri
. . . We actually saw this movie a few weeks ago, before the Golden Globe Awards, but I couldn't remember the date. What worked for me so well was the acting, not just Kate Winslet, but David Kross, as well.
Ralph Fiennes also did a commendable job, but had a relatively minor role. Kate Winslet had me completely sold on the validity of her portrayal of a very complex, somewhat heartless, yet vulnerable woman. That part was masterful. And, for "masterful," unless something else is missing, you get some form of an A from Dan.
. . . Another thing I liked was being transported to Germany, post holocaust and witnessing the tension among a conflicted populace as to their collective responsibility for the Holocaust. That part seemed credible to me.
. . Also, the cinematography and the mood it created was splendid. I did agree with Terri that there was too much raw sex near the beginning. It started to become tiresome and boring.
There were times when the story lacked immediate drama or tension and that is one reason why my grade is not higher. I'm not a thumb way up on this one, but it clearly points towards the sky. (Thumbs up for Dan.)
. . . Oh, there was one serious flaw in the script in that what one person would do for pride did not smack of reality to me, nor did what another person would allow to happen to someone that he/she cared about--at least at one time. By that, I mean I didn't buy some critical events at a significant level and that in turn detracted from the power of the movie for me.
A-
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. . . "I can't make up my mind whether it's a thumbs up or down, it was very slow at times and I had a hard time paying attention.
. . . ."There was too much sex at the beginning and that grew tiremsome."
. "The scenery was beautiful and that Fiennes guy is always steamy. He's not very good looking, but he sure seems to woo the women in his films. You can feel the tension.
Thumbs neutral. "I can't say up or down on this one."
. . . Thumbs neutral for Terri.
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