"Much sharper focus, intelligence and wit are apparent in "Anne Frank Superstar," in which a 10-year-old girl (Betsy Salkind) is exploited by TV executives for a sitcom (yes, a sitcom) based on Anne Frank's diaries. Salkind, a TV veteran who has written for "Roseanne," aims to expose the banal stupidity of those running the business. When executives become skittish at the thought of the show becoming controversial, their brilliant idea is to add a deaf cast member because "handicapped is in." If she tends to rely too much on bathroom humor, you're willing to forgive her because you can see she is an intelligent performer who has much more in mind. She has constructed a sharp, insightful satire, and delivers a wicked performance. Don't be surprised if "Must-see TV" executives buy the rights to this piece, just so they can make sure you'll never see it."

September 27, 2000

---