Pinky

Shattering racial drama which (unfortunately) has many contemporary resonances to modern day 2016 in its dealing with casual and deliberate racism, both person-to-person and societally. Crain is exceptional as the conflicted Pinky, and Barrymore and Waters both have powerful moments as opposing mother figures. Perhaps becomes a little too conventional and tepid in its second half dealing with a protracted court case, but still provides much food for thought.

69.000

Based on the novel "Quality" by Cid Ricketts Sumner, this is a very brave film, considering the time it was made in, with quite a modern approach and attitude, dealing with racial as well as gender issues. Convincing performances by all three important female actresses complete that movie. Unfortunately it upholds racial segregation. However, it is still recommendable, because a small step forward is better than no step forward.

The racial awareness was rising high in 1949. This is the third one from the year that tackles the racial hypocrisy in America. This one partly fails as they managed to cast a while actress in the role of the light-skinned black lady. I guess some needed to do baby steps in the wake of change. What's positive is that the film clearly takes aim at the lack of rights for black people, and Ethel Waters, who at least was black, became the second African-America woman to be nominated for an Oscar.