The Diary of Anne Frank

The Diary of Anne Frank

Year: 1959

Runtime: 180 min

Language: English

Director: George Stevens

BiographyDramaHistoryWarFamily

During World War II in occupied Holland, a shopkeeper and his wife risk their lives to hide the Frank and Van Daan families in a concealed annex behind their business. For over two years, they live in fear and confinement, facing constant danger from the Nazis. Anne Frank’s poignant diary entries offer a deeply personal account of their experiences, exploring themes of hope, despair, and the complexities of human connection within the confines of their hidden existence, while also documenting her evolving relationship with Peter Van Daan.

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Timeline – The Diary of Anne Frank (1959)

Trace every key event in The Diary of Anne Frank (1959) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Otto Returns to Amsterdam

In 1945, Otto Frank returns to Amsterdam after the end of World War II. He ascends to the empty attic where he and his family had hidden, greeted only by Miep Gies and Mr. Kraler, who had risked their lives for his family's safety.

1945 Amsterdam
2

Finding Anne's Diary

As Otto searches the attic, he asks Miep for his youngest daughter Anne's diary. Miep retrieves it, providing Otto with a sense of comfort as he begins to read Anne's heartfelt words written three years prior.

Attic
3

The Franks Go into Hiding

In July 1942, Anne begins her diary, chronicling the oppressive restrictions that forces Jewish families, including the Franks, to go into hiding. They take refuge in a concealed attic above a spice factory, accompanied by the Van Daans and their son, Peter.

July 1942 Amsterdam
4

Establishing Silent Rules

The group is warned by Kraler, who works in the office below, to maintain absolute silence during the day when the factory is operational. This agreement marks the beginning of their harrowing life in hiding, living in constant fear.

5

Daily Life in Hiding

As time passes, Anne's lively personality begins to flourish, often playfully teasing Peter, the anxious son of the Van Daans. Otto takes on the role of teacher, working to keep spirits high amidst the constraints of their new life.

Attic
6

Introducing Albert Dussell

As tensions rise in the confined spaces, Kraler introduces another person into their hiding place—a Jewish dentist named Albert Dussell. He brings news of the grim fate that has befallen their friends outside, intensifying the fear and anxiety of the group.

7

Hanukkah Tensions

During a particularly tense Hanukkah celebration, arguments break out over food and stress amplifies. Just as Peter tries to catch the family cat, Mouschi, the sound alerts an intruder, leading to frightening moments for everyone hiding.

Hanukkah Attic
8

Dreams of Concentration Camps

Following a nightmare about her friend being in a concentration camp, Anne wakes in panic, facing the harsh reality of their situation. The group's morale is tested further with news of bombings intensifying around Amsterdam.

9

Hope Amidst Despair

By January 1944, Anne becomes emotionally attached to Peter, who supports her dreams of becoming a writer despite the grim reality surrounding them. As food shortages grow, conflicts arise, but their relationship blossoms quietly in the attic.

January 1944
10

Allied Invasion News

When news breaks of the Allied invasion in France, the mood briefly lifts among the group. However, the continuing conflicts and arguments reveal the growing stress, leading Anne to dream of a return to normalcy and school.

11

Increased Danger

In July 1944, the health of Kraler deteriorates as ulcers take a toll on him amidst the strain of hiding. Tensions escalate with food shortages while the looming threat of discovery by the police grows more imminent than ever.

July 1944
12

The End of Hiding

As the situation becomes increasingly precarious, the police arrive, breaking down the door unexpectedly. The families are taken away, shattering the fragile hope they upheld while living in hiding.

Attic
13

Otto's Hearbreaking Return

Back in 1945, Otto's return is bittersweet as he reflects on the lost lives of his family and friends. He learns through a woman from Bergen-Belsen about Anne's tragic death, carrying the weight of grief and memory forward.

1945 Amsterdam
14

The Power of Anne's Words

As Otto reads Anne's diary after her death, he finds comfort in her optimistic final thoughts. Her belief in the goodness of people shines through even amidst the darkness of their experiences, reminding Otto of her spirit.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:15

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Diary of Anne Frank

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