Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

Year: 1967

Runtime: 108 min

Director: Stanley Kramer

DramaComedy

A young couple with progressive ideals find their beliefs challenged when their daughter introduces them to her boyfriend, a successful and charming Black man. The ensuing visit sparks thoughtful conversations and humorous moments as the family grapples with racial prejudice and societal expectations, ultimately exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the evolving landscape of American identity.

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Timeline – Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)

Trace every key event in Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Joanna's Return

In 1967, Joanna Drayton returns to San Francisco after a delightful vacation in Hawaii. Her heart is full of love, but she soon finds herself in the midst of an unexpected situation.

1967 San Francisco
2

Whirlwind Engagement

Joanna reveals her engagement to Dr. John Prentice, a 37-year-old black widower, after a whirlwind romance that lasted only 10 days. This news disrupts her family's dynamics, causing tension and concern.

3

Maternal Acceptance

Christina, Joanna's mother, who owns an art gallery, begins to process the news of her daughter's engagement. Though initially surprised, she exhibits an open-minded approach, showing gradual acceptance of the interracial relationship.

4

Paternal Struggles

Joanna's father, Matt Drayton, a traditional newspaper editor, struggles deeply with the implications of his daughter's engagement to John. His conservative views create an underlying tension that complicates their family dynamics.

5

John's Ultimatum

John approaches Joanna's parents privately, making it clear he will withdraw his proposal without their blessing. This revelation intensifies the familial confrontation as they grapple with the societal expectations surrounding their relationship.

6

Dinner Invitation

In an attempt to unite both families, Joanna invites John's family over for dinner. Unbeknownst to her, John has not disclosed her racial background to his parents, setting the stage for potential conflict.

7

Support from Monsignor Ryan

The evening's tension escalates when Monsignor Mike Ryan arrives, a friend of Matt's. He offers his unwavering support for Joanna and John's relationship, aiming to diffuse the growing hostility.

8

John's Parents Arrive

John's parents arrive for dinner and are initially shocked to learn of Joanna's ethnicity. The unexpected revelation sparks a significant emotional discussion about love and acceptance within their family.

9

Heartfelt Conversations

During dinner, John and his father engage in a candid conversation where they reflect on the nature of true love. This moment of vulnerability allows both families to reassess their biases.

10

Matt's Revelation

Matt Drayton confronts his biases and acknowledges his lack of authority over his daughter's relationship. In an introspective moment, he decides to give his blessing to Joanna and John's union.

11

Reconciliation

The culmination of the evening sees both families, with the support of Monsignor Ryan, gathering around the dinner table. They stand united in their endorsement of Joanna and John's marriage, showcasing love's triumph over prejudice.

12

Future Challenges

As the night concludes, both families acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. However, they express their determination to navigate these hurdles together, reinforcing their commitment to the couple's future.

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 18:22

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Guess Who's Coming to Dinner Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

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