*The Reader* (2008) is a German-American drama directed by Stephen Daldry, based on the acclaimed novel by Bernhard Schlink. The film stars Kate Winslet, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Hanna Schmitz, alongside Ralph Fiennes and David Kross. Set in post-World War II Germany, the story follows a complex and haunting relationship between a young teenager, Michael Berg, and Hanna, an older woman. After an intense summer romance, Hanna suddenly disappears, leaving Michael heartbroken. Years later, as a law student observing a Nazi war crimes trial, Michael is shocked to see Hanna among the defendants, leading him to confront painful truths about guilt, shame, and moral responsibility. Through its layered narrative, *The Reader* examines themes of love, betrayal, the legacy of the Holocaust, and the ethical complexity of personal and national memory. Winslet’s performance, along with the film’s exploration of forgiveness and justice, received widespread critical acclaim, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally impactful film that raises profound questions about human choices and accountability.