MY BEST FRIEND ANNE FRANK

This is a gripping and chilling drama that gives you a close view of the horrors Hannah, Anne, and many others endured under Hitler’s National Socialist regime. It also offers a heartwarming story of friendship and courage as Hannah risks her life to help Anne.

The film’s strongest qualities are its moral seriousness, biblical themes, excellent cinematography, and stellar performances from Aiko Mila Beemsteroer and Josephine Arendsen. Its historical setting is painful by nature, and the disturbing violence, obscenities, implied sex, lewd references, and brief nudity make it unsuitable for children and young teens.

Adults can take this journey, and parents may consider it for older teenagers with careful guidance. For a younger family, choose something else.

Before the Holocaust, Anne Frank and her best friend Hannah share games, movies, jokes, and promises of lifelong friendship. When Nazi Germany invades the Netherlands and begins persecuting Jewish families, war separates the girls and changes everything.

Eventually, both girls face internment in a Nazi labor camp. There, Hannah learns that Anne is nearby and must decide what she is willing to risk for her friend.

Three stars means this is a strong, worthwhile drama with some flaws. The performances by Aiko Mila Beemsteroer and Josephine Arendsen are stellar, and the cinematography makes striking use of bright colors before the camp and dark, grayish colors within it.

The wardrobes and sets add authenticity. The emphasis on Hannah’s life gives the familiar story an informative historical twist, while the flashbacks and flashforwards keep the plot moving through unexpected turns. The film is gripping and moving, though its subject matter is deeply disturbing.

The film presents a strong moral, biblical worldview. Its characters believe that God will take care of them, that He is in control, and that He decides their fate. They also speak about God delivering them from their dire circumstances, and several scenes show Jewish characters praying in Hebrew.

The movie strongly condemns the horrors of National Socialism and honors courage, friendship, sacrifice, and devotion. Hannah’s willingness to risk her life for Anne reflects the film’s belief that love can sustain people through terrible suffering. The source review does not identify a specific departure from this biblical moral framework.

The film’s central longing is for deliverance in the midst of suffering. Scripture says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

This is a gripping, morally serious Holocaust drama with strong performances, excellent cinematography, and a moving portrait of friendship. Its disturbing content demands care. For discerning adults—and older teenagers with parental guidance—it is WORTH THE TRIP — ADULTS ONLY. For younger viewers, choose.