Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Moving tale of woman who hid Anne Frank's family from Nazis.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
A Small Light
What's the Story?
A SMALL LIGHT is based on the true story of a young Dutch woman, Miep Gies (Bel Powley), who went to work for Anne Frank's father as a secretary and soon found herself playing an important role in the Nazi resistance movement, hiding the Frank family and other Jews for over two years.
Is It Any Good?
A deeply moving series that humanizes the story of Anne Frank through the eyes of Miep Gies, her father's loyal employee and the Frank family's protector. A Small Light captures the complexity of the time as Miep and others navigate the growing dangers of Nazi rule while trying to protect Jewish friends and new acquaintances. Excellent performances bring emotional depth and authenticity to the show; Miep (Bel Powley) draws the viewer in with her quick humor, frank self-assessments, and willingness to always do what needs to be done. Liev Schreiber conveys the torment Otto Frank feels throughout his family's ordeal, especially when putting others in danger by asking for help. By providing a poignant perspective on the Holocaust, A Small Light offers a compelling reminder of the consequences of prejudice and hate.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Miep and others show empathy toward their Jewish friends and acquaintances. What does Miep mean when she tells Otto she'll never understand the Nazis like he does?
Why do you think some people fought against the Nazis' treatment of the Jewish people while others stood by and did nothing? Point out ways that Margot, Miep, Jan and others display courage during the series. Why is this an important character strength?
Talk about who Anne Frank was and why she's become such an important symbol of the Holocaust. Read Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl together.
TV Details
- Premiere date : May 1, 2023
- Cast : Bel Powley , Joe Cole , Liev Schreiber
- Network : National Geographic Channel
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Gratitude , Integrity
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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