January 2022               

Movie Discussion of “Passing” Thursday, February 17^th

Dear MHC ’63 Classmates:

    Following the very positive feedback from our class discussions of “Nomadland” and “Minari”, we are making plans for another Class of 1963 discussion in February, this one of the movie “Passing.”

   “Passing”, the film, released in late 2021 is based on a book by Nella Larsen, published in 1929. Larsen was part of the literary Harlem Renaissance circle, and the story takes place in 1920’s Harlem. It centers on the protagonists, Irene and Clare, two women who meet accidentally on hot, steamy afternoon in the lounge of a hotel tea parlor. Clare recognizes Irene as a friend from childhood and reminds Irene that they had gone to school together in Harlem.

   Irene, who doesn’t initially recognize Clare because Clare is now “passing” as a white woman, is discomfited by the encounter.  The story evolves as the two women’s lives become intertwined in intense and complicated ways.  Masterfully acted by Tessa Thompson as Irene and Ruth Negga as Clare, the movie is directed by Rebecca Hall.  Dealing with issues of identity, women’s roles, and the complexities of relationships, “Passing” also offers an examination of race in the 20^th century that is increasingly important today.  Much more than a period piece, “Passing” offers much to contemplate, excellent acting and a powerful presentation.

   If you would like to join the discussion, first watch “Passing” and plan to join our Zoom discussion on Thursday, February 17th at 8pm to 9:30 pm ET. 

   “Passing” can be seen on Netflix. If you are not a subscriber to Netflix, their Help Center describes the cost for viewing “Passing.” You will need to subscribe. A minimum subscription is $8.99 per month that can be canceled at any time. 

   Please note there is another movie called “The Passing” which should not be confused with “Passing.”

   If you are interested in being part of the discussion, please email Mary Ann Searles Weiss weissma@nku.edu as soon as possible.  At the end of January, the Zoom link will be emailed to everyone who has shown interest. At that time, we will also send the Zoom link and details re the format of the discussion.

   We look forward to another valuable discussion and another opportunity to continue our connections and to create new ones. 

Alice Andrus

Jenni DeWolf

Karel Koenig

Steph Smith

Mary Ann Searles Weiss

Judy Widmann

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*** Please check out our class President's latest message to us under Class Business/President's letters. Elaine updates news about our upcoming DC reunion. More to come to this website soon.

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