3. The Setting
There have been many films depicting life in Nazi Germany; many have succeeded in being thought-provoking, moving and respectful. The Book Thief seems set to follow in their footsteps. It also seeks to provide a different angle on the events of the Second World War by depicting them through a child's eyes. The story is set in the small German town of Molching, on the outskirts of Munich. In the novel, Zusak emphasises the commonplaceness of Molching and its inhabitants, thus making the realities of life under the Nazi regime all the more disturbing. The film will also mirror a technique used in the acclaimed novel and film The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. By depicting the Nazi propaganda, cruelties and institutions through Liesel's eyes, it contrasts her childlike innocence with the Nazi cruelty. There are many films and television series charting the effect of the Blitz in Britain. There are far fewer depicting the effect the allied bombing had on Germany. The threat of an air raid is a constant one in The Book Thief and the threat becomes even more alarming for the Hubermanns once they are hiding Max, who cannot join them in the safety of the air raid shelter. The setting of The Book Thief is integral to the story's themes and plot and the trailer indicates the utmost attention to detail has taken place to ensure the period will be portrayed accurately. The Book Thief's historical setting allows it to tackle its very current themes of injustice, humanity and hope.