The Reader · written by David Hare · 2008

Michael waits for workmen to clear Hanna’s courtyard, then slips inside and climbs toward her apartment.

Scene 22 of 196 · ≈ 1 min on screen · Act one

Act oneAct two

Begins 8 min into a 1:21 film

The story so farBefore scene 22

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.
Scene 7
Hanna finds and comforts Michael while he is sick, creating their first connection.
Just before
Scene 19
A tram moves through the quiet street at dawn.
Scene 20
Michael gets out of bed and dresses quickly.
Scene 21
On the tram, Michael secretly watches Hanna collect tickets; she calls the next stop without noticing him.
Scene 22
This scene

22EXT. BANHOFSTRASSE. DAY

MICHAEL is standing on the other side of the street from HANNA’S courtyard. He is in two minds about whether to go in. The WOODWORKERS are loading a van. He waits for them to finish before he slips in through the archway, making his way to the stairs.