Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.