The Reader (2008) is a drama film directed by Stephen Daldry and based on the 1995 novel of the same name by Bernhard Schlink. The film stars Kate Winslet, Ralph Fiennes, and David Kross.

The story unfolds in post-World War II Germany and revolves around Michael Berg (played by David Kross and later by Ralph Fiennes), a teenager who has an affair with an older woman named Hanna Schmitz (played by Kate Winslet). Their relationship is complicated by Hanna’s secretive nature and eventual disappearance. Years later, Michael discovers that Hanna is on trial for war crimes, which forces him to confront their past and the moral complexities of her actions during the Holocaust.

Kate Winslet’s performance as Hanna Schmitz earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film is noted for its powerful exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the impact of historical trauma on personal lives. The narrative structure, which shifts between Michael’s teenage years and his later life, adds depth to the story and allows for a nuanced exploration of the characters’ psychological and moral struggles.

Overall, The Reader is praised for its strong performances, particularly Winslet’s, and its thought-provoking narrative that examines the intersection of personal and historical responsibility.