The movie Passing is based on the novel of the same name by Nella Larsen. It tells the story of two Black women, childhood friends Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry, who are reunited by chance in New York City in the 1920s. Clare has been passing as white for years, and she is married to a wealthy white man who knows nothing of her Black heritage. Irene, on the other hand, is married to a successful Black doctor and is deeply involved in the Black community.
As Irene and Clare reconnect, their lives become increasingly intertwined. Irene struggles with her own feelings of inferiority and jealousy towards Clare, who seems to have everything she desires: wealth, social standing, and the ability to pass for white. Meanwhile, Clare is torn between her desire to be accepted by white society and her longing for her Black identity.
As the two women navigate their complex relationship, the themes of identity, privilege, and societal expectations come to the forefront. Passing offers a poignant and thought-provoking examination of race, class, and gender in early 20th century America. The film is directed by Rebecca Hall and stars Tessa Thompson as Irene and Ruth Negga as Clare.