The Book Thief 2013
"Courage beyond words."
Set against the chilling backdrop of WWII Germany, *The Book Thief (2013)* follows young Liesel, a spirited girl who discovers solace in the pages of stolen books.
Director: Brian Percival
Cast
Geoffrey Rush
Hans Hubermann
Sophie Nélisse
Liesel Meminger
Emily Watson
Rosa Hubermann
Nico Liersch
Rudy Steiner
Ben Schnetzer
Max Vandenburg
Heike Makatsch
Liesel's mother
Barbara Auer
Ilsa Hermann
Roger Allam
Narrator / Death (voice)
Rainer Bock
Mayor Hermann
Gotthard Lange
Grave Digger
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Book Thief (2013)* about?
This WWII-era drama centers on Liesel, a young girl who finds escape in stealing books, sharing them with her community, and secretly offering them to a Jewish refugee hidden by her adoptive parents. It's a story of survival, humanity, and the enduring power of literature in the face of war.
Who directed *The Book Thief*?
Brian Percival directed *The Book Thief (2013)*, bringing a delicate balance of warmth and gravitas to this wartime narrative.
Who stars in *The Book Thief*?
The film features a standout cast including Geoffrey Rush, Sophie Nélisse, Emily Watson, Nico Liersch, and Ben Schnetzer.
Is *The Book Thief (2013)* worth watching?
Absolutely—this drama distinguishes itself with its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances, particularly from newcomer Sophie Nélisse. Fans of historical dramas with emotional depth will find it a compelling watch, offering both poignant reflection and quiet inspiration.
How long is *The Book Thief*?
The runtime of *The Book Thief (2013)* is 131 minutes, or just over two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About The Book Thief (2013) — A Moving WWII Drama of Stolen Books and Silent Courage
Set against the chilling backdrop of WWII Germany, *The Book Thief (2013)* follows young Liesel, a spirited girl who discovers solace in the pages of stolen books. Directed by Brian Percival, this poignant drama weaves a tale of courage, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling amid unimaginable darkness. As Liesel navigates the horrors of war, she shares her forbidden literary treasures with neighbors and, under the cover of her adoptive family's home, with a hidden Jewish refugee. With Geoffrey Rush as her steadfast foster father and Sophie Nélisse delivering a soul-stirring performance as Liesel, the film balances raw emotion with quiet hope. Themes of loss, humanity, and the redemptive magic of words linger long after the credits roll, making it a haunting yet heartfelt cinematic experience.
Based on Markus Zusak's bestselling novel, *The Book Thief (2013)* is more than a war drama—it's a tribute to the voices that refuse to be silenced. Emily Watson shines as Liesel's compassionate foster mother, while the ensemble cast brings depth to a story where every stolen book becomes a lifeline. The film's somber yet lyrical tone captures the resilience of the human spirit, proving that even in the bleakest times, stories can be both shield and sanctuary.
