Guess Who's Coming to Dinner

In 1967, Joanna Drayton, a bright-eyed 23-year-old, returns from her Hawaiian getaway to San Francisco, where she's met with a surprise visit from her parents' acquaintance, Dr. John Prentice (37), a charming black widower. The two had embarked on a whirlwind romance that culminated in a 10-day engagement, leaving Joanna's family in a state of shock. Her liberal-minded but ultimately accepting mother, Christina, owns an art gallery, while her father, Matt Drayton, a newspaper editor, is reeling from the news. Though Christina gradually warms up to John, Matt remains steadfast in his objections, citing the insurmountable obstacles the couple will face due to their racial differences.

Unbeknownst to Joanna, John has confided in her parents, insisting that he'll call off the engagement unless they give him their blessing. This revelation sets the stage for a series of tense confrontations, as John's impending three-month stint with the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, hangs precariously in the balance. Will Joanna follow him to Europe, or will she find a way to stay behind and fight for their love?

As the drama unfolds, Joanna invites John's parents to join them for dinner, unaware that he's kept his fiancée's racial identity from them. The evening takes a surprising turn when Monsignor Mike Ryan, Matt's golf buddy, arrives and offers his unwavering support for the couple. Meanwhile, Christina stands firm in her acceptance of Joanna, despite the potential challenges ahead.

The arrival of John's parents, the Prentices, brings a new level of tension to the table. Stunned by Joanna's race, they initially struggle to come to terms with their son's choice. However, after an emotional intervention from Monsignor Ryan and some sage advice from Christina, they ultimately decide to put aside their reservations and support their children.

As the night wears on, John's father has a heart-to-heart with his son, acknowledging that they've lost touch with what it means to truly fall in love. Joanna's father, Matt, eventually reveals his true feelings, admitting that he's been blinded by his own biases. In a moment of profound introspection, Matt comes to realize that he has no right to dictate the course of their relationship and ultimately gives his blessing for the couple to marry.

As the evening draws to a close, the families and Monsignor Ryan gather around the dinner table, united in their support for the young lovers. Despite the seemingly insurmountable challenges ahead, they're determined to find a way to overcome them and build a life together.