'The Reader' is a well-directed film, with great performances, but stands sole in terms of keeping the viewer gripped. A well-made film in all aspects, but not an endearing watch for the commoner. Sex goes on and on in the first 60 minutes, while the penultimate 30 minutes are the death of characters? The Reader works in bits and pieces, not in totality.

Pluses of the film: Well-directed. Sex Scenes are truly arousing. Performances are first-rate: Kate Winslet won the Oscar for this role, and rightly so. Ralph is outstanding. Others are passable.

Minuses: Lenghty.

on the whole 'The Reader' holds scant appeal.