Anne Frank - The Whole Story (2001)

Good TV movie

Ben Kingsley is one of the great actors of our time. His performance here as Otto Frank conveys quiet strength in the face of unfathomable sorrow. But the episodic nature (where the commercial breaks are too obvious) and the tour de force allotted to young Hannah Taylor-Gordon verges on becoming a pity-party. This is, after all, a Disney film.

Would I use it in the classroom? Probably not, because of (brief) bare breasts in the concentration camp, and because the teleplay by Kirk Ellis ["The Three Stooges" (2000)] plods toward the inevitable without capturing the irrepressible spirit that the unfinished diary leads us to believe ought to be there. One ought to feel uplifted by Anne's presence; instead, one feels, "What a waste; bad Nazis!" True enough, but that's only part of the story. July 8, 2008

love this movie

i received this movie in great condition and very promptly. this is a must see film. if you like this one, definitely check out schindler's list too. July 4, 2008

Excellent

This film is very realistic, and while it doesn't really shy away from the realities countless suffered during the Holocaust, it is "safe or proper enough" to show to eighth graders. I believe History teachers show stronger films to students, but as a Language Arts teacher, I don't really have the same allowances. I want to reiterate that it is very realistic and excellently executed. July 2, 2008

Riveting, but diappointing

Dramatic portrayal of the famous diary that showed the world what life was like for Anne Frank's family during an oppressive regime of terror.
The actress portraying Anne Frank overacts and I found the overall performance less than it should have been. The drama was well acted by Mr. Kingsley who saved the film from having been way too long and poorly acted. Supporting cast was not too bad, but the whole film is too long for most people to sit through. This one is for the History Buffs. June 18, 2008

Very moving and authentic.

Wonderfully made movie that touches the human spirit. My students better understood the tragedy that occurred in WWII. Careful - a few moments that will really need a teacher's guidance. Preview before you show to students. June 16, 2008

More reviews at Amazon.com ...