A free showing of the Oscar Award-winning film, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” will be featured at the Silver Screeners Classic Movie Matinee on Sunday, February 26, 1:30 p.m. at the Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County, 201 N. Mulberry Street, Mount Vernon.
In a 1968 review, film critic Roger Ebert called it a “delightfully old-fashioned film” “a joy to see…” and “a magnificent piece of entertainment.”
Director Stanley Kramer took on controversial subjects of the day—interracial marriage and cultural stereotypes—with star performances by acting legends Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, Sidney Poitier and Katharine Houghton, Beah Richards and Roy Glenn Sr, Cecil Kellaway, and Isabel Sanford.
Poitier’s character is a noble, rich, intelligent, handsome, ethical medical expert who serves on United Nations committees when he’s not hurrying off to Africa, Asia, Switzerland, etc. During a vacation in Hawaii, he falls in love with Houghton, and they return home to break the news to the parents. Both parents have their misgivings for a variety of reasons, including concerns over an interracial marriage.
In one poignant scene, Tracy gives a heart-wrenching soliloquy about how true love can and will endure through the years—even when facing trials and tribulations. Real tears filled Hepburn’s eyes during the scene as this was the last film to feature the on and off-screen chemistry of longtime lovers, Tracy and Hepburn. Tracy died 17 days after filming ended.
Film buffs Steve Moore and Mickey Shire will share insight and behind the scenes trivia prior to the showing and then will lead a group discussion following the film.
The film is free and open to the public. Popcorn will be provided by the Friends of the Library. For more information, call the main library at 740-392-BOOK (2665), visit www.knox.net or email communityrelations@knox.net.