Movie Review: The Book Thief (2013)

"The Book Thief" is a film-adaptation of a novel by the same name that focuses on young Lisel (Sophie Nelisse), and her adopted family (Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson) in Nazi-era Germany. Lisel learns to read and write, finding enjoyment in much books. She reads to the Jewish man, Max (Ben Schnetzer), the family hides in their home and even steals books from the mayor's home.

This film has a lot to like.  The story is good though it feels a little sanitized perhaps because we're seeing a lot of the story through Lisel's eyes.  It's PG-13 and probably appropriate for most.  There is a strong theme of showing and recognizing humanity even in the midst of Nazi Germany.  I also loved Lisel's love of books and the power of the written word.  The acting here is good by Rush, Watson, and Nelisse.  

Cute film with some strong themes - A-