Pinky

source: Pinky

Pinky

The characters are all carefully presented and the story is simple yet complex in this thought-provoking film. But while Jeanne Crain is a fabulous actress, she is perhaps wrong for this part. Her Irish heritage cannot be concealed by the black-and-white cinematography, because her bone structure and eyes are very distinctly non-African in appearance. Apparently, Gene Tierney was first considered for the part, and so was Linda Darnell. But this role requires a real-life mulatto actress. Perhaps having a white actress in the lead helped Fox tell the story without a black, or partially black woman, kissing a white man-- in the film, Pinky kisses her fiancé, played by William Lundigan. Despite the uneven casting of the lead, the rest of the players are well selected. Improving on the supporting actresses would not be necessary. The two Ethels are perfect: Ethel Waters as the grandmother; and Ethel Barrymore as the old southern belle.

I've just seen this film for the 3rd time although I'm sure I hadn't seen it for at least 10 years. I had forgotten the depth and intensity of the prejudice displayed in the film. It is taking nothing away from Jeanne Craine's sensitive and beautiful performance to say that the star of the film is Ethel Waters - she is simply a magnificent presence throughout. It is one of those performances where every fibre of being is transmitted thru to the viewer - you cannot help but feel that the character is one of the strongest and bravest women ever shown on screen. Considering the shocking 1950's world of Amos and Andy and the in-every-sense-white-bread fiction world of Hollywood - Father Knows Best, The Donna Reed Show, etc - it is startling to see how movies so transcended the comfort-food level of TV and challenged audiences. This movie belongs, I believe, in the highest echelon of social commentary films - such as To Kill a Mockingbird, Gentlemen's Agreement. Absolute must see!!!