The Reader's revealing of contemporary real life
Reader is a 2008 German film directed by Stephen Delbleger and based on the novel of the same name by Benhard Schellinger. The film tells a complex and moving story that touches on themes such as war, love, morality and personal responsibility.
Set in post-World War II Germany, the protagonist, Michael, is a young lawyer who begins a relationship with Hannah, a female convict twice the age. However, the relationship is not just a simple love, but is connected by a past that Hannah secretly guards.
Hannah was a former guard in a Nazi concentration camp and treated prisoners with cruelty. However, she also has a secret that she is illiterate and cannot read. Michael began reading to Hannah every day, and this reading became their way of interacting and intimacy. However, one day, Hannah suddenly disappeared, leaving Michael in deep doubt and guilt.
Years later, Michael participated in a trial as a legal intern, and Hannah reappeared in his life, but this time she was charged with war crimes. Michael discovers a secret that Hannah has guarded, which puts him in a moral dilemma. He must decide whether to reveal Hannah's secret and take responsibility for her actions.
The Reader delves into topics such as personal responsibility, sin, conscience, and moral choice. It provokes the audience to think about war, Nazi crimes and human nature. Through Michael's experience, the film shows an examination of past wrongdoing and a commitment to the consequences of his choices.
The far-reaching impact of society. Director Stephen Dale Browleg skillfully uses lens language and editing techniques to interweave the storyline and emotions, allowing the audience to deeply experience the inner world and conflicts of the characters.
Reading aloud in the film is seen as a symbolic act, representing understanding, communication and acceptance. Michael conveys knowledge, education and culture to Hannah through reading aloud, while also bringing inspiration and growth to himself. Reading aloud becomes an emotional bond that connects two very different people, while also highlighting the power of reading and words.
Through Hannah's character, Reader also presents the phenomenon of collective silence and self-preservation in post-war Germans. Hannah's silence about her role and involvement in crimes also represents the shame, guilt and concern about responsibility for history brought about by war. The film provokes the audience to think about historical responsibility, personal morality and collective memory.
Awards and accolades: The Reader has received numerous awards and accolades, including Kate Winslet winning the Academy Award for Best Actress for her outstanding performance. The affirmation of these awards has made the film receive more attention and recognition, further enhancing its influence.
Discussing War and Morality: The film delves into important themes such as war, personal responsibility, and moral choices. It sparked moral debate and discussion among viewers and critics about war crimes and personal conduct. Through the complex relationship between the plot and the characters, "Reader" allows people to reflect on the choices made by individuals in extreme situations and the attitude towards historical responsibility.
Stimulate interest in literature and reading: The theme of reading aloud in the film and the emphasis on the importance of literature and books stimulate the audience's interest in reading and literature. It prompts people to think about the power of words and stories, and the impact of reading on individuals and societies.
Exploring History and Personal Memory: The film explores the relationship between history and personal memory through the memories of characters and the unfolding of stories. It provokes the viewer to reflect and examine the importance of historical memory and past behavior.
German film revival: As a German film, the success of Reader on the international stage has also had a significant impact on the German film industry. Its commercial and artistic success injected new vitality and attention into the revival of German cinema, and promoted the development of German cinema in the international market.
conclusion
The Reader's influence at the time was mainly reflected in the moral and cultural discussions it sparked, as well as its role in promoting the German film industry. Through its complex storyline and excellent performances, as well as deep reflections on war and human nature, it deeply touches and contemplates ethical and moral issues in life.
