Review of The Diary of Anne Frank (1959) by Matthew D — 24 Nov 2018

As important to watch now as when it was released.

The Diary of Anne Frank (1959) is a tearful and poignant take on Anne Frank tragic brief life. It is so suspenseful and will make you hold your breath. The sound design is phenomenal as you hear all the grand silence and the quiet whispers to the loud crashes and incessant bombings with stunning sound choices.

Director George Stevens uses every clever directorial move to build suspense from slow panning shots, tender close-up shots, sudden edits to new rooms, and sweeping shots to change viewpoints. Stevens also masterfully lit his black and white world. The soft lighting at night, illuminating people partly in shadow, moving silhouettes, light flashing in the darkness, and lighting up faces in the darkness. All of these techniques are still effective while watching The Diary of Anne Frank.

The main star here is Millie Perkins as the energetic and spirited Anne Frank. You completely sympathize with her curiosity and wonderment of her situation. Perkins delivers an all time great performance as Anne Frank. You believe her accent, sweet voice, mesmerizing eyes, and upset tantrums alike. She is compelling to the last.

Anne's father Otto Frank is portrayed so beautifully by Joseph Schildkraut. His tender teachings and wisdom are much appreciated in this dour story. Schildkraut makes you care for the father as he had to be so supportive and strong for Anne and his family. He is certainly an empathetic character.

Legendary actress Shelley Winters also gives a wonderful performance as Mrs. Van Daan. Her hysterics are fun as they are upsetting. Winters makes sure that even though you do not like her character as a person, she is also humanized as she reminisces about her loving youth. Winters brings so much depth to her characters and she is naturally interesting to watch in The Diary of Anne Frank.

This is a classic film for its careful construction, beautiful artistry, standout performance from Millie Perkins, likable supporting cast, and timeless message of finding empathy for people in the worst situations. The harrowing story of Anne Frank is not easy to watch, but you should try to anyways as it will make you feel something real.