80 years ago, in March 1945, Anne Frank died in the Bergen-Belsen camp. After hiding for 761 days in the “Secret Annex” in Amsterdam, she left behind a poignant testimony: her diary. An intimate account that has become universal.
Airing this Tuesday on France 2 from 9:10 PM, Anne Frank, Diary of a Young Girl offers a unique immersion into her story. Through excerpts from the diary, unseen photographs from the Anne Frank Fund, and colorized archives, this film gives a new dimension to her testimony.
An Ambitious Project
Patrice Gellé and Alexandre Moix wanted to provide a fresh perspective on Anne Frank. The film doesn’t just tell her biography. It delves into the intimacy of her adolescence, her hopes, and fears.
“When Alexandre Moix came to see me, it was with a strong idea: to tell Anne Frank’s story through Anne Frank. That it would be her own voice guiding the narrative,” explains producer Patrice Gellé. “It wasn’t about making a classic historical film but bringing her words, thoughts, and daily reality to life.”
To make this account come alive, an original choice was made: to embody Kitty, Anne’s imaginary friend. Five teenagers of today become the keepers of her memory. “Anne Frank wrote to Kitty, her imaginary friend. I imagined that this Kitty was all of us, including today’s youth,” adds director Alexandre Moix. “This dialogue between past and present allows us to reach a wider audience and reminds us that her message is timeless.”
Exclusive Access to Archives
The documentary benefits from unprecedented access to the archives of the Anne Frank Fund. Rarely used diary excerpts and personal photos are revealed. “We had to convince the Anne Frank Fund, which is extremely vigilant about how its image is used. But our approach won them over, especially our desire to speak to the youth,” notes Patrice Gellé.
These carefully preserved documents offer an intimate insight into Anne’s life. “Anne Frank’s father photographed her over 400 times,” specifies Alexandre Moix. “Some images are amazing; it feels like seeing a teenager from today.”
Notable Directorial Choices
The film relies on colorized archival images. A technique that enhances emotion and immersion. “Color allows for better identification,” affirms Alexandre Moix. “It gives a new dimension to historical images and brings Anne Frank closer to the viewers.”
Another significant element: the filming in Anne Frank’s actual house in Amsterdam. A rare opportunity. “Very few cameras have had the chance to enter there,” reveals Patrice Gellé. “We filmed at night, respecting the atmosphere of the place. It was a moment full of emotion.”
A Strong and Relevant Message
As antisemitism resurfaces in Europe, this documentary resonates with current events. It reminds us of the importance of memory and transmission. “Between 2022 and 2024, antisemitic acts quadrupled in France,” emphasizes Alexandre Moix. “We cannot look away. This film is a necessary reminder.”
Anne Frank is more than just a symbol. She was a young girl, with her dreams and doubts. Her diary continues to challenge, move, and question. “Her story touches us because it is deeply human,” notes Patrice Gellé. “This documentary is a way to keep her voice alive over and over again.”
A Broadcast Not to Be Missed
Anne Frank, Diary of a Young Girl will be aired this Tuesday, March 4th, at 9:10 PM on France 2. A poignant documentary that immerses us in the heart of a personal and universal story. An essential work, to never forget.
