PINKY (1949) B/W 102m dir: Elia Kazan

w/Jeanne Crain, Ethel Barrymore, Ethel Waters, William Lundigan, Basil Ruysdael, Kenny Washington, Nina Mae McKinney, Griff Barnett, Frederick O'Neal, Evelyn Varden

Strong racial drama dealing with a young, light-skinned black woman who returns to the southern town of her birth.

From The Movie Guide: "Producer Darrel F. Zanuck, who had attacked anti-Semitism in GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT in 1947, tackled the subject of prejudice against African Americans in this film. ... Zanuck initially asked John Ford to direct PINKY, but he was reportedly relieved, nevertheless, when Ford (who didn't get along with actress Waters and felt little enthusiasm for the story) asked to be taken off the picture two weeks into shooting, since Zanuck had misgivings about Ford's ability to create credible black characters. After Ford's exit, Zanuck immediately called in Elia Kazan; eight weeks later the film was completed, Ford's footage totally scrapped. Today, PINKY is still remarkable for its sincerity and directness, especially when one considers its date of origin. This is a mature film, with great respect for the humanity of people who are able to transcend social barriers and care for one another."

PINKY received three Oscar nominations: Best Actress (Crain) and Supporting Actress (Barrymore, Waters).