MOVIE REVIEW: THE BOOK THIEF

“THE BOOK THIEF” PRESS REVIEW

For people who love a good cry and a touch-my-soul family story, then don’t miss “THE BOOK THIEF”. The sporadic suspense keeps you going.

Its advertising slogan politely reminds us that the theme is “Courage beyond Words”.

Right.

“THE BOOK THIEF” is all about a plucky young girl called LIESEL who lives with her foster family during the throes of World War 2 Germany.

Intrigued by her only possession of a single book she brings with her, her fascination grows and she begins collecting more books whenever she can find them or steal them. With literary support from her foster parents and a personable Jewish refugee who takes refuge under the stairs, her determination to master the written word opens up a bold new world that’d transform her persona forever.

SOPHIE NELISSE takes on the lead role of the quick-tempered heroine Liesel. Her petulant and unfriendly looks may stir the audience with the notion that she is a wrong bet for the role. The director BRIAN PERCIVAL should know better as he helms the production.

GEOFFREY RUSH plays Hans, the genteel and understanding adoptive father.

EMILY WATSON who portrays Rosa the mother is way tops, so you can expect strong performances from the veterans.

“THE BOOK THIEF” stays close to Markus Zusak’s World War II story, but less the gore and violence you’d normally notice in films screaming murders and battle cries.

This is a Holocaust film crafted for a primary young adult audience. The mature group may find the pace irksome and the build-up a trifle slow.

Raised in 1930s Germany, Liesel has seen people die before her, other horrific happenings and experiences her fair share of pain at such a tender age. Her kid brother is dead and her mother mysteriously disappears leaving behind a trial of dark memories instilling in her a vacuum of insecurity.

She is adopted by the Hubermanns, an impoverished couple living in a small village. Rosa (Emily Watson) is sharp-tongued with a motherly concern. Hans (Geoffrey Rush) has a heart and time to spare to groom Liesel to read.

“THE BOOK THIEF” may not be a prescient masterpiece, but there are enough heartbreaking albeit humane moments to share.

Let’s say that with all odds emerging, this one is a quiet winner.

But for fans who are looking for high voltage thrillers, then this would not be your cup of tea.

Touch my soul, chum.

Rating: 3 out of 5

(Now, click here for the awesome Movie Trailer)

THE BOOK THIEF Movie Trailer

THE KING’S SPEECH” Movie Review. A SMASHING FILM, by any means.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” Press Preview

Not everyone shares the same divine craving for the British filmfare.

This is a staunch fact.

But there’s always a standing ovation for the deserving ones, out here in ASIA.

For non-fans, British films can be deemed as hard and boring, that is, if you do not know where to rest your artistic tolerance.

The younger minds who are ever mindful of action and excitement may not be as appreciative,

but for matured audiences, it’s a joy to behold when the right one comes along.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” is one such gem, packaged within a stand-offish title.

Sieving through you’ll surely find remarkable traces of

aristocracy, pomposity, stiff-upper-lip British blather, and all things such.

But then ….

“THE KING’S SPEECH” is dressed in style -

packing in a heavenly script.

Le manifique, folks.

The combination of sterling performances and masterful direction turns this movie into an all-consuming emotional experience.

This one is a powerful drama that you’ll quietly enjoy.

It’s a buddy story about a stutterer and would-be-king played by COLIN FIRTH and his speech therapist GEOFFREY RUSH with a decent amount of sugary toppings.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” explores the intensity of human relationships, making up for all the endless onslaught of violent and sex driven cinematic junk that is perpetually drowning us all the time.

It’s a true story about King George VI, who took over the throne just prior to World War II. George, ever mild mannered, had a serious speech problem and had an awful time speaking in public.

Colin Firth plays George and he displays the gentleness, wisdom and humor of the King.

He delivers a magnificent performance.

Geoffrey Rush plays Lionel Logue who ultimately helps the King overcome his speech impediment.

The interaction between Firth and Rush is top notch.

Helena Bonham Carter, in the role of Firth’s faithful screen wife demonstrates a steely presence with her grace, look and gestures.

Here’s a heartwarming, soulful film that plays out on the battlefield of words, not action.

It’s a perfect film fodder for discerning audiences starved for literate entertainment.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” is directed by TOM HOOPER, (THE DAMNED UNITED ,HBO’s award-winning mini-series and JOHN ADAMS). HOOPER quickly gets you emotionally immersed in the characters and storyline.

Overseas critics I know are lauding praises on this award-winning film.

Right.

So don’t miss it for the like of the world.

“THE KING’S SPEECH” is a smashing film by any means.

It’s one peach of a gem that will render you absolutely speechless.

You can count on this one.