As a law student, Michael sees Hanna, his former lover, on trial for war crimes and must face the secret that shaped their teenage relationship.
- Scenes 1–6
In 1995, Michael prepares breakfast for Brigitte, then is alone in his apartment and looks out the window.
- Scenes 7–24
The sick schoolboy Michael accepts Hanna’s help and returns to her.
- Scenes 25–35
Michael enters an intimate relationship with Hanna, organized around his reading to her.
- Scenes 36–96
Michael alternates between time with Hanna and school; their reading ritual and cycling trip continue while he also spends time with friends.
- Scenes 97–104
At the trial, Michael finds Hanna among the defendants and hears her admit involvement in selections.
- Scenes 106–137
Testimony reveals Hanna’s role; Michael’s discovery of her illiteracy cannot prevent her conviction.
- Scenes 138–189
Michael returns to adult life, sends tapes, and eventually visits Hanna before release.
- Just before
- Scene 191
Michael’s taxi arrives at an expensive Fifth Avenue apartment building, and he goes inside.
- Scene 192
Michael tells Ilana about Hanna’s death and their affair. He proposes donating the money to a literacy organization; Ilana approves, tells him to find a Jewish organization and send the money, and keeps the tin.
- Scene 193
Ilana watches Michael leave, then places the tin beside a photograph of herself with her mother.
- Scene 194
This scene
