The Poll Diaries

Main Plot

The Poll Diaries follows the life of a young woman named Anna, who navigates the complexities of adolescence and the tumultuous landscape of post-war Germany. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, Anna grapples with her identity, relationships, and the societal expectations placed upon her. As she documents her experiences in a diary, she reflects on her struggles with family dynamics, her burgeoning sexuality, and the impact of historical events on her personal life. The film captures her journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of love, loss, and the quest for freedom in a changing world. Anna's diary serves as a lens through which the audience witnesses her growth and the challenges she faces, ultimately highlighting the universal search for belonging and understanding in a complex society.

Characters

• Paula Beer plays Oda von Siering, a young girl who discovers a wounded Estonian anarchist and secretly nurses him back to health amidst the turmoil of pre-World War I.
• Edgar Selge plays Ebbo von Siering, a German doctor whose controversial medical practices and political views significantly impact the story's tension and character dynamics.
• Tambet Tuisk plays Mechlenburg, a German officer. His character's actions and decisions significantly impact the protagonist's journey and the unfolding events in the story.

Ending Explained

In The Poll Diaries, the ending brings a poignant resolution to the central themes of identity and the quest for belonging. The narrative culminates in a powerful confrontation with the past, as the protagonist reflects on the complexities of her upbringing and the impact of her family dynamics. Throughout the film, the protagonist grapples with her sense of self amidst the chaos of her childhood experiences, particularly in relation to her parents and their expectations. As the story unfolds, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading her to confront the truths of her past. In the final scenes, she comes to terms with her family's legacy and the emotional scars that have shaped her. This acceptance allows her to reclaim her narrative, breaking free from the constraints imposed by her upbringing. The ending emphasizes the importance of understanding one's history to forge a new path forward. The protagonist's journey concludes with a sense of empowerment, illustrating that while the past cannot be changed, it can be understood and integrated into one's identity. This resolution not only ties up the personal conflicts but also resonates with the broader themes of resilience and the search for authenticity in a complex world.