Ep 4. Anne Frank
- May 27, 2019
Historical Roasts season 1 episode 4 revolves around the life and legacy of Anne Frank, a Jewish teenage girl who died in World War II. The episode explores her early life and how she came to write her powerful diary, which became a symbol for the Holocaust and the human cost of war.
Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through Anne’s life, from her childhood in Frankfurt, Germany, to her family’s move to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to escape persecution by the Nazi regime. The episode examines the harsh realities of Anne’s life in hiding, where she and her family were forced to live in secret for over two years in a small attic above her father’s business to avoid being discovered by Nazi soldiers.
Anne’s diary, which she received as a gift for her 13th birthday just before going into hiding, provided a comfort and outlet for her feelings during those difficult times. Her writing was an escape from the restrictions of her small space and the fear of being discovered. Tragically, Anne and her family were eventually discovered and sent to concentration camps. Only her father, Otto Frank, survived to see the end of the war and release of those who were imprisoned.
The Historical Roasts episode honoring Anne Frank is much like the previous episodes in this roast series. Famous comedians and actors take the stage and poke fun at the iconic figure of Anne Frank, who is portrayed by Peppermint, the fabulous drag queen and entertainer.
While it may seem controversial to make light of such a tragic story, the jokes and humor used on Historical Roasts are always in good taste and are intended to educate and honor each featured figure.
During the episode, the roasters use their comedic wit to examine Anne's life and legacy, from her powerful writing to her status as a cultural icon. The roasters explore the many ways that Anne has been portrayed in popular culture, from plays to movies to TV shows.
The episode features a panel of comedians and actors, including Hasan Minhaj, Rachel Feinstein, Gilbert Gottfried, and Fortune Feimster. Together they explore the life of Anne Frank while joking about her most personal experiences, including her crushes on boys and her relationship with her mother.
The humor is both irreverent and insightful, and the comedians do an excellent job of walking the tightrope between paying homage to Anne's legacy and having fun with the concept of a roast.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a mix of informative historical background, jokes, and performances. Controversial figures such as Adolf Hitler and Josef Mengele are also roasted in a satirical manner.
Ultimately, the Historical Roasts season 1 episode 4 celebrating Anne Frank features an emotional tribute to one of the most iconic figures of the Holocaust, while also bringing laughter and fun to the audience. By satirizing and showing respect to Anne Frank and her legacy, the show highlights the importance of acknowledging our past in a way that is both entertaining and enlightening.