Based on Bernhard Schlink’s award winning novel, The Reader is a masterful (though graphic) work, depicting the difficulty of new generations to understand the Holocaust. David Kross plays teenage Michael Berg, is seduced by a 36 year old woman who had cleaned him up after being ill on a train ride home. When he goes to thank her months later, a steamy affair begins. It continues for months, until Hannah (played by Kate Winslet) disappears for no reason. Years later, Michael is a law student observing a criminal war trial (involving the death of hundreds of ‘protected’ Jewish women) and is surprised to find that Hannah is a defendant. He struggles with the need to understand her actions and whether or not she deserves forgiveness.
Of course, like all movies that have even a hint of Holocaust history, this one is going to make you cry. It is emotionally charged, risky and incredibly graphic. (Do not let your children see this one, no matter how mature they may be.) While it does the novel justice and is a truly unique story, it isn’t one for everyone.
The Spirit, while equally graphic, has an entirely different tone. Directed by Frank Miller, it’s another one that’s not for the kiddos. Chronicling the adventures of the masked vigilante, The Spirit tells of murdered rookie cop Denny Colt, who returns from beyond the grave to fight crime in Central City. The big bad guy, The Octopus, has plans to annihilate the entire city. While working to unravel The Octopus’ plans, The Spirit becomes involved with several women who all either want to love, or kill, him. Following the style of Miller’s Sin City, the film is bold and visually stunning.
Also new this week on DVD and Blu-ray:
1.Lost in Austen
2.Pride and Prejudice [Blu-ray]
3.Wings: Final Season
4.The Story of India [Blu-ray]
5.Mean Girls [Blu-ray]
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5 Responses to “New DVD Releases: April 14”
I have added the Spirit to my netflix queue. I forgot about this one. THanks for the reminder.
That’s why we’re here!
rented Doubt this week——worth renting—–since i missed it at the show
Hmmm, i am not for sure on this one.
I think I’ll watch it…….