Legendary black actor Sidney Poitier, known for being the first black actor to win the academy award for best actor and for his major contributions to the civil rights movement, passed away January 6, 2022. One of his many great films was the 1967 drama Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, directed by Stanley Kramer. In this film, Sidney Poitier plays charming doctor John Prentice as he navigates tension and racial prejudice when meeting the parents of his white girlfriend and soon to be wife Joey Drayton. 

While there were many other huge Hollywood stars such as Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, Poitier shone and represented the excellence of black acting that many in Hollywood refused to acknowledge. But more than just a look into racial prejudice and culture shock, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner is also an incredible meditation on parenthood and the meaning of love. The cinematography, writing, and acting is top tier, supporting this already timeless film. This is a must see movie for anyone, providing a unique perspective on many aspects of life. Rest in power Sidney Poitier.