I read the book shortly after, written by Bernard Schlink, and I would have to say it is one of the most poigniant stories as it draws you initally into this bizarre love affair between a young boy (Michael Berg) and an older, working class woman (Hanna Schmitz).
Right from the beginning she seems like a rather complicated, private character, capable of much more than what is on the surface. But the companionship and the trust she has in Michael, does depict her to be a kind-hearted character, and their bond through reading creates a truthful sense of closeness as they embark upon classics like 'The Odessy' and 'The Lady with the Little Dog.' When Hanna mysteriously vanishes, Michael is left heart broken and confused, blaming her disappearance on himself. 
Eight Years Later, Michael finds himself sitting in a 'Nazi War Criminal Trial' as a Law Student, watching as Hanna sits in the defendants chair, accounting her revealing past.
It is such a memorable moment in the film, as it almost deludes the viewer into empathising with her actions, as one has seen her life from such contrasting sides.
Directed by Stephen Daldry, it is in my opinion an affecting and powerful film. The cast is fantastic, the majority being German with the exceptions of Ralph Fiennes and Kate Winslet. David Kross, playing the character Michael does a spectacular job, and it is incredible how he spoke such little english before being cast for the role. He brings such a vulnerability and honestly to the character which Ralph Fiennes sustains later on, playing Michael as an adult.
The music score by Nico Muhly, a very young, new composer is spectacular... here is a link..
Here is one of my favourite sections, Kate Winslet fully deserved her award and the credit she got for her role as Hanna... put please watch the entire film first so it is not spoilt...
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