A Patch of Blue

Selina D'Arcey, a blind young girl, lives in a cramped city apartment with her harsh mother, Rose-Ann, who works as a prostitute, and her grandfather, Ole Pa, an alcoholic. The atmosphere is tense as Selina copes with her mother's foul-mouthed outbursts and lacks the support of friends or formal education, often feeling isolated from the outside world.

To help make ends meet for her family, Selina spends her days stringing beads and carrying out household chores. Her responsibilities in the home grow more burdensome as she manages both the care of her mother and grandfather, further highlighting her challenging upbringing.

One day, Selina convinces her grandfather to take her to the park, where her life takes a turn when she meets Gordon Ralfe. Gordon, a kind and educated black man, works late hours and their friendship begins to form as they connect on a deeper level.

As Selina and Gordon continue to meet nearly every day, he learns about her tragic past. She shares the traumatic event that caused her blindness at the age of five, an explosion of rage from her mother, which forever altered her life.

Meanwhile, Rose-Ann's friend Sadie sees an opportunity in Selina's vulnerability. Together, they plot to abandon Ole Pa and relocate to a better apartment, intending to force Selina into prostitution to support their selfish desires.

Concerned for Selina's future, Gordon reaches out to a school for the blind, eager to secure her a position there. He envisions a brighter path for Selina, away from the toxic environment created by her mother and Sadie.

When Rose-Ann steps out, Selina escapes to the park to confide in Gordon about her dire circumstances. She reveals her fears regarding her mother's plans and seeks solace in their friendship, wishing for a way out of her bleak situation.

Rose-Ann soon discovers Selina's absence and confronts Gordon, demanding to know where her daughter is. In a decisive moment, Gordon asserts that Selina is no longer a child and takes her away, marking a significant step towards her independence.

During her stay at Gordon's home, Selina expresses her wish to marry him, showing her deep affection. Gordon gently explains that love can take many forms and that they may not be meant to be together romantically at this time.

As the day comes for Selina to leave for her new school, the two share a poignant farewell. Gordon gifts Selina a cherished music box, symbolizing both his affection and the hope he holds for her future.

Just as Selina is about to board the bus for her new school, she almost forgets the music box. Gordon attempts to rush after her but misses the bus, illustrating their poignant connection and the bittersweet nature of their parting.

Returning to his empty apartment, Gordon is filled with a mix of hope and heartache. While he wishes for Selina's success and happiness in her new life, he is left grappling with the reality of their separation and what the future holds.