Pinky (1949)

A "light-skinned" negro returns to her southern town after passing for white while studying as a nurse up north.

It was a little difficult to get into the groove of this movie at first. Not only is the prejudice coming from the whites around town, but from the Pinky's own grandmother who tells her she ought to be ashamed for pretending she's something she's not. Which is what, exactly? Every bit as intelligent and worthy of respect as white women? I've never considered myself particularly "politically correct" -- but this movie made me cringe. I suppose it's possible it's accurate, but it also seemed rather ridiculous. One minute Pinky's being treated with respect and concern by shop owners/police/men driving by -- but the minute she identifies herself as colored, disdain and harrassment are in order for the "swamp bunny."

The acting is commendable, and all three of the main women were justifiably nominated for Oscars.

C+