Anita B. 2015
Directed by
Roberto Faenza
Made by
Diginext Films
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Anita B. (2015). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
As the world starts to emerge from the shadows of World War II in 1945, we meet Anita, a 16-year-old Hungarian Jewish girl who navigates the treacherous landscape of post-war Zvíkovské, Czechoslovakia. Orphaned after enduring the horrors of Auschwitz, Anita seeks refuge with her aunt Monika, along with her uncle Aron, infant cousin Roby, and Eli, Aron’s brother-turned-brother-in-law. Their home, which was seized from German expellees by the Czechoslovak government, serves as a stark reminder of the war’s brutality and the upheaval it caused in their lives.
Despite the refuge she finds, Anita’s journey is fraught with challenges, predominantly stemming from Monika’s frigid demeanor and strict rules. Monika disallows any discussions about Anita’s traumatic past at Auschwitz, fearing the repercussions of her undocumented status. Driven by an intrinsic curiosity and a longing for connection, Anita defies her aunt’s orders and attends a party, where she is confronted by two policemen. They arrest her for being an “undesirable,” leading to several days of imprisonment until she manages to secure her identification papers.
Upon her release, Anita starts working at a local tailor’s shop, where she forges a meaningful connection with David, a fellow dreamer. Meanwhile, an intense and tumultuous romance develops between her and Eli, characterized by passionate affection and possessive tendencies. However, when Anita learns of her pregnancy, she turns to Eli for support, only to be met with contempt and a suggestion to abort the child. Torn and unsure, Anita reluctantly accompanies Eli to Prague, where her understanding of their relationship takes a dark turn, pushing her to make a desperate attempt at securing her autonomy.
Anita’s world spirals into chaos, but she finds a glimmer of hope in the empathetic words of a doctor who performs the abortion procedure. Recognizing Anita’s fierce resolve to keep her baby, the doctor administers a sedative instead of the expected procedure. This pivotal moment allows Anita to seize her chance at freedom as she and Eli retreat to their hotel room. However, the illusion of safety quickly shatters as Anita discovers Eli’s true intentions, leaving her feeling isolated and betrayed.
In a moment of profound clarity, she breaks free from Eli’s manipulative grasp, seeking refuge at a Jewish reception center in Prague. This marks the beginning of a transformative journey that leads her to Marseilles and ultimately to Palestine, joined by other Jewish youth heading towards Jerusalem. As Anita gazes out over the sea, she embraces the renewal of her cultural heritage and the promise of a brighter future. With nothing but resilience and unwavering hope in her heart, she sets forth into a world that, despite its scars, holds the possibility of healing and rebirth.
Timeline
Track the key events of Anita B. (2015) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
End of World War II
The world begins to emerge from the devastating effects of World War II in 1945. This period marks the start of recovery and rebuilding for many nations, particularly affecting the lives of those who survived the horrors of the war.
Anita's Ordeal
Anita, a 16-year-old Hungarian Jewish girl, finds herself orphaned after surviving the atrocities of Auschwitz. This traumatic experience leaves her yearning for a sense of belonging and peace in the aftermath of the war.
Finding Refuge
Anita seeks refuge with her aunt Monika, uncle Aron, and cousin Roby in Zvíkovské, Czechoslovakia. Their home, once occupied by German expellees, serves as a reminder of the war's brutal impact on their lives.
Struggles in Refuge
Despite finding a place to stay, Anita faces emotional challenges due to Monika's cold treatment and strict household rules. Monika forbids any discussions about Anita's past, leaving her feeling isolated.
The Party Incident
Driven by a desire for connection, Anita attends a party against her aunt's wishes. Her excitement turns to fear as she is confronted by police and arrested for being an 'undesirable,' illustrating the dangers faced by those without documented status.
Imprisonment
Anita spends several days in prison before managing to secure identification papers. This experience deepens her understanding of the precariousness of her situation and the impact of the war's aftermath.
Working at the Tailor's Shop
Upon her release, Anita finds work at a local tailor's shop, where she begins to form a meaningful bond with David, a fellow dreamer. This job provides her a semblance of normalcy and stability.
Love with Eli
Anita enters a passionate and tumultuous romance with Eli, who becomes possessive. As their relationship deepens, it highlights the complexities of love amid trauma and uncertainty.
Anita's Pregnancy
Upon discovering her pregnancy, Anita turns to Eli for support, but is met with contempt and pressure to abort the child. This moment marks a turning point in her personal struggles, increasing her sense of isolation.
Trip to Prague
Anita reluctantly accompanies Eli to Prague, hoping to find clarity in their relationship. Instead, she faces emotional turmoil, questioning her choices and her future.
The Doctor's Choice
In a moment of desperation, Anita meets a doctor to discuss her pregnancy. The doctor, recognizing her fierce desire to keep her baby, administers a sedative instead of performing the abortion, empowering her choice.
Aftermath of Betrayal
After escaping Eli's manipulative grasp, Anita feels a profound sense of betrayal. This realization forces her to seek refuge in a Jewish reception center, starting her journey towards autonomy.
Journey to Freedom
Anita embarks on a transformative journey from Prague to Marseilles, accompanied by other Jewish youth. This journey symbolizes her fight for freedom and a new beginning.
Embracing Cultural Heritage
As she gazes out over the sea in Marseilles, Anita reflects on her cultural heritage. This moment signifies her acceptance of her identity and the hope for a reunited Jewish community.
Setting Forth for Jerusalem
Anita sets her sights on Palestine, travelling alongside other Jewish youth. Their dreams of reaching Jerusalem reflect a broader hope for healing and a brighter future.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Anita B. (2015) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Anita
Anita is a determined 16-year-old Hungarian Jewish girl whose life has been drastically altered by the war and her experiences in Auschwitz. She is characterized by her fierce resolve to identify and assert her existence, despite the harsh realities imposed by her circumstances. Her emotional journey reveals her vulnerability and strength in seeking love, acceptance, and autonomy.
Monika
Monika is Anita's aunt who provides her with shelter but is emotionally cold and strict. Her fear of the consequences of discussing Anita's past reflects the broader societal anxiety of the time. Monika's unwavering rules and disapproving nature create an obstacle for Anita as she seeks to process her trauma and find a sense of belonging.
David
David is a fellow dreamer that Anita meets while working at the local tailor's shop. He represents hope and potential friendship in Anita's life post-Auschwitz. His character contrasts with Eli's jealousy, showcasing a healthier, supportive connection that underscores the importance of companionship during difficult times.
Eli
Eli is a complicated character who represents both love and betrayal in Anita's journey. His possessiveness and eventual contempt for Anita when she learns of her pregnancy starkly contrast with the initial passion of their relationship. Eli's failure to support her during a critical moment showcases his darker side and the manipulation inherent in their connection.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Anita B. (2015), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1945
The film is set in the year 1945, shortly after the conclusion of World War II. This period was marked by the struggles of many, including survivors of the Holocaust, who sought to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins of war. The socio-political landscape was turbulent as nations grappled with the consequences of the conflict and life began to slowly emerge from its shadows.
Location
Zvíkovské, Prague, Marseilles, Jerusalem
Zvíkovské is a small town in Czechoslovakia deeply affected by the aftermath of World War II. It serves as the initial refuge for Anita and her family after the horrors of Auschwitz. The narrative later shifts to Prague, a city steeped in history and culture, where Anita's life takes several critical turns. Her journey ultimately leads her to Marseilles and Jerusalem, representing hope, renewal, and the quest for a safe haven.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Anita B. (2015). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Resilience
Anita embodies resilience as she navigates the traumas of her past and the adversities of her present. Despite the strictures imposed by her aunt and the challenges she faces in society, her determination to seek freedom and connection drives her journey. Her experiences highlight the strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.
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Love and Betrayal
The theme of love is intricately woven into Anita's journey, particularly in her romantic entanglements with Eli and her friendship with David. However, love is often shadowed by betrayal, as Eli's possessive nature ultimately leads to heartbreak. This theme explores the complexities of relationships in times of distress.
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Identity
Anita's search for identity is central to the narrative, particularly as a young Jewish girl in a post-war environment. The film addresses her struggle to reconcile her traumatic past with her desire for a new self in a world that often marginalizes her. Her journey towards Jerusalem symbolizes not just a physical relocation but also a reclamation of her identity and heritage.
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