As 2013 comes closer to ending, we’re starting to see a lot of solid Oscar contender films hitting the scene. One that should be on everyone’s radar is THE BOOK THIEF, adapted from the novel by Markus Zusak. Directed by Brian Percival (Downton Abbey) and starring Geoffrey Rush and Sophie Nélisse, this film tells the story of Germans living under Nazi rule in World War II, and one brave and curious young girl who must adjust to a new family. What I most respected about the production was its sincerity and honesty that never felt forced. It should also be said that while Geoffrey Rush is (as one would expect) quite good, young Sophie Nélisse turns in an absolutely stellar performance as “Liesel” in the film. I had a chance to sit down with author Markus Zusak, Academy Award-winner Geoffrey Rush, Sophie Nélisse and director Brian Percival during their recent press stop in Dallas, and you can see that interview below. We talk about Markus’ reaction to the finished film, Brian’s approach to the material, and Geoffrey and Sophie’s familial chemistry, among other things. This was a real treat, especially since the movie we’re discussing is so very good. Check it out in theaters this weekend (in select cities) and tell us your thoughts on it. As a side note, not related to the film but just worth mentioning, I had a chance to chat with Geoffrey Rush the night before this interview at a private party. We actually talked a lot about Craig Ferguson, as I had just seen his appearance on The Late, Late Show, and we both seemed to admire the unique and wonderfully weird quality of Ferguson’s talk show style. Rush is without a doubt one of the most humble and laid back actors I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting, which makes his effective performance in the film that much more of a joy to behold.
Many thanks to the lovely Rachel Parker for shooting and editing this video.
Born and raised in Dallas, Mark has been a movie critic since 1994, with reviews featured in print, radio and National TV. In 2001 he started the Entertainment section of the Herorealm website, where he contributed film reviews and celebrity interviews until 2004. After three years of service there, he started Bigfanboy.com, which has become one of the Dallas film community's leading information websites. Bigfanboy hosts several movie screenings in the Texas area, and works closely with film and TV studios and promotional partners to host exciting events and contests. The site also features a variety of rare celebrity and filmmaker interviews, and Bigfanboy.com regularly covers the film festival circuit as well. In addition to Hollywood reporting, Mark has worked for many years as an advertising and sci-fi/comic book artist. Clients have included Lucasfilm Ltd., Topps Trading Cards, The Dallas Mavericks and The Dallas Stars. From 2002 until 2015 he managed the Dallas Comic Con, Sci-Fi Expo and Fan Days events in the DFW area. He currently catalogs rare comic books and movie memorabilia for Heritage Auctions, and runs the Dallas Comic Show conventions, but remains an avid moviegoer and cinema buff. 
