Sky Is Gray

Rating:
Summary: FORCED TO SEE GRAY
Review: Young James' world is limited to the Negro Quarters of rural Louisiana until a tootache forces him into a world he never imagined. A trip into town to get a tooth pulled ends up as a classroom for life's lessons and ambiguities. Set in the early 1940's, "The Sky is Gray", is the film adaptation of Ernest Gaines' short story. It is a classic piece in that a young Black boy comes face to face with the contradictions in the black and white adult world. Seen through an adolescent's eyes you will feel his surprise, raise his questions and share his hurts. This wonderful film is sensitive in its portrayal of a young boy forced to grow up in a hostile world. Gaines' black and white characters move beyond the stereotypes of southern society. Through James' eyes you see a young man confronting the slave mentality of a preacher while waiting for his dental appointment. You see James' mother attempting to maintain her dignity and pride when she knows her earnings are meager.Yet you find a woman who is willing to accept kindness, on her own terms. She makes it clear to her son that they are not beggers but working people. Most of all this film teaches us the lessons youth must be forced to learn especially if they're in an environment that is determined to keep them poor, ignorant and disenfranchised. James' mother must force him to grow up fast before he is consumed by the world. James sees the grays in this adult world but there is hope that he will be able to overcome the obstacles. This is a beautiful story about adolescence, becoming a man and learning how to live with dignity and pride regardless of your status. You will enjoy this touching story that reaches into your heart and fills you with joy for James and all young boys who must walk a similar path.