Passing Explained | Ending Explained

[@lucasblue20]

Hope this is helpful! What were your thoughts and ideas about Passing? I would love to discuss! Let me know below!!

[@Richard-rb7mm]

Option 4. Irene pushed Claire from the window because Irene realized that John would divorce Claire and as Claire said earlier she would move to Harlem, disrupting Irene's life and would be free to steal Brian.

[@lucasblue20]

@@Richard-rb7mm yeah this is also a really good interpretation! Irene really looked like she was at her breaking point by the time of that party, so considering all the factors you mentioned, this is certainly a plausible way of looking at it. Thank you for this and thank you for watching!!

[@skywalker6648]

Not a good movie. I think this movie was portrayed in a way that was too simplistic for such a complex topic. For example, there are many examples of this happening in the past and is often different for many who have passed for White. For example, from your review, you seem to get from the movie that if you choose to pass, it could end up being a horrible outcome. Yet, we know from history and perhaps our own lineage that is not true. In fact, I have relatives who passed with no problem and it was not even an issue. That said, I also have relatives (and friends I heard about) who chose not to pass and ended up being isolated by both Blacks and Whites. Not always automatically accepted social butterfly like Clare. So the movie could have did a better job at approaching the topic of passing by actually focusing more on Clare's life and her difficulty with living a lie. Especially, since as you said, it was apparent that Irene appeared to feel more free. Though on the contradictory, she sometimes passed herself in order to feel free around White people. Which is actually problematic for the movie too because that kind of muddles up whatever point the director was trying to make in comparing how they handled being light skinned. So altogether, it just didn't come together to well and the ended up just being about the cliché storyline of the tragic mulatto with nothing unique or interesting going on. It's too bad too as the director wasted an opportunity to tell a compelling story that effectively explored what was really going on with the characters as they navigated the challenges of racism, classism, and sexism and it's impact on there lives or decisions.

[@caroline1557]

very helpful! great job!!

[@Bronzed_In_Elegance]

@@lucasblue20 could it also be that Irene was passing with her sexuality? There were a few moments in the film where Irene longed to touch Claire. Also she struggled to connected physically and emotionally with her husband and children…just a thought.

[@XOXODANiE]

This movie beautifully covered every definition of passing: 1. Passing for white 2. Passing for straight 3. Passing by one another 4. Passing away

[@lucasblue20]

I love this! The title has so much breadth, even as just one word. Thanks for this and thank you for watching!!

[@smithfabulosity]

You're so on point! I definitely felt that Irene was passing for straight. Her husband always complained of lack of affection. Irene made a comment that everyone is passing as something. She grabbed at her friend's hand when she was at that event. The list goes on! Lots of symbolism in this film.

[@XOXODANiE]

@@smithfabulosity yes! I noticed that too, and the scenes where they seemed much too intimate to just be friends made me question if Irene was jealous of her husband receiving Clare's attention ..wishing she was in HIS place!

[@wilky7920]

@@smithfabulosity I got the impression that during their childhood something more intimate occurred between the two ladies. So they were both passing for straight. Irene look really worried when she first recognized Claire.

[@kaiacane3354]

@@wilky7920 yes!! I thought this too. And in that era that would not be something a middle class black woman would have rehashed...unless perhaps Clare brought it up first, and honey Clare was not about to do that, everything about Clare was ambivalent.....

[@snich8551]

I think Irene's husband's story was also interesting. At first he thought of Claire as a horrible woman, but then became enamored with her, and even fiercely defended her. It seemed as if he, and the boys enjoyed the idea of Clare, of the freedom she represented, like they could live vicariously through her. When around her they could experience some of what it would be like to be carefree and white. He wanted to leave the constraints of life as a black person in America, and go to Brazil. In Claire he saw someone brave enough, braver than Irene, who wasn't afraid to leave one world for another, and admired her for it.

[@anistrecker3527]

This is such a good theory!!

[@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist]

It makes me sad, that everyone relates Claire personality to her skin tone. I watched this movie for times because I very much related to it. To the end when her husband pushed her. Claire had a magnetic personality, having nothing to do with her skin. I am not prejudice and very much impartial to all races. It really saddens me that everyone sees her skin tone, not her soul!! You attribute carefree to white?

[@whoome1638]

@@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist I believe the OP meant that back then and even today, yes, there is carefreeness ingrained it what it means to be white. I will only discuss black and white, as this is what the topic is in the movie. I think it’s harder for non black people to understand that even laughing loudly is a privileged for black people in white spaces. I now understand why my grandmother constantly glanced around after she scolded us lil girls for speaking or laughing just as loud as the other lil white girls. I also understand how something so small could relate to someone’s races. Claire’s actions and attitude had a lot to do with her race and her secret. The movie itself is called “passing” so race is going to be entrenched in everything the characters do and feel.

[@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist]

@@whoome1638 I am bit lost by your words. I understand the movie is about a black woman passing. When we observed and analyze stories we look at the big picture and all the nuances. Your words about speaking loudly and being carefree really disturbs me. It is time for liberation. I am an American, and I should not be treated differently then any other.

[@whoome1638]

@@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist I agree with being liberated but that’s not the reality we live in. As a black American I understand why they associated her race and the ability to “pass” in correlation with liberty and freedom. It’s quite hard to explain my experience to another white American. If you are indeed white. However, I understand the nuance of skin color and freedom

[@designmydevine4974]

I believe when Irene dropped the teapot and was numbly explaining how she was happy she dropped it because she had been trying to find ways to get rid of it, that was her telling her true feelings about wanting to get rid of Clare. To me, that explains why when Clare actually fell, Irene didn’t budge or show any emotion at all. If she truly cared for her well being and if the fall had been accidental, why didn’t she rush down to help like everyone else? Her state of shock seemed more like guilt shock.

[@ashlabelle]

I love that the film also doesn't forget to remind us of the disparity in privilege between light skin vs. dark skin especially in women. Both of the heroines are light skinned enough to pass for white, they get to be in high society and experience respect and fairness, while the maid is dark skinned and doesn't have that privilege in fact even her black employer is very strict to downright harsh with her. There's a scene where Irene's husband says "I like my women dark" but do you really, considering your wife is being played by Tessa Thompson? It's like dark skinned black women are invisible.

[@lucasblue20]

This is such a great observation. Most certainly. Like you said, it’s more of a spectrum of privilege rather than a matter of one or the other. And sadly that spectrum still exists today in media and in everyday life. I feel like so many of this movie’s themes run parallel with modern day

[@HeMcLoveit]

i also noticed that!!!

[@skywalker6648]

@@lucasblue20 Some could also say that it some ways it's the opposite now in that oftentimes you now see more dark skinned actresses with the natural hair on ads, tv, and movies. More so than Lighter skinned, really. If only they could strike more of a balance. Like the movie, Dune in which you can see both dark and light skinned Black actresses.

[@schristine159]

So true! There is a scene when Clare and Zu are talking, Irene greets Clare and immediately tells Zu to pick up her groceries, no hello or anything. That’s why I never really felt bad for her.

[@Earthomo]

The socialite hosting the party at the end of the movie was a dark skinned woman

[@OohpreddynailsAngie]

I just want to throw out something that I noticed. Brian was often tired and napping in the beginning of the movie. Then later it was Irene. I think there was latent sadness in Irene's marriage from the start due to lack of genuine love and intimacy. Irene's depression grew deeper once her childhood love, Claire resurfaced. Then she began sleeping alot. Claire turned her world upside down.

[@lucasblue20]

This is a fantastic observation! Your points add a lot of context to Irene's most isolated scenes, especially the ones that are purposely shot out of focus and in slow motion. Thank you for this and thank you for watching!!

[@r.mcrina213]

Yes Angie! Irene was captivated by Claire's veil of secrecy and whatever latent attraction as evidence by how she came home turned on and was unexpectedly intimate with her husband in the living room chair after being around Claire and a second time after they left the club and got busy in the bedroom. Once that veil was lifted, Irene became deflated, resented Claire, covered her newfound liberty, then started back ignoring her husband's advances and even shooing him away at times. I think her cognitive dissonance and depression progressed when Claire made it clear she was "willing to do anything" for her freedom.

[@kenzieputman5687]

I also noticed that Brian initially tried to comfort her insecurities but in that scene after dinner where she projects her feelings for Claire by saying he’s happier with her around he just walks away… I think he had his suspicions but was a good guy so didn’t use it against her or Claire

[@shizukagozen777]

Napping = sadness in someone's marriage ? Alright...

[@Imeraldgyrl]

Irene’s love of Clare? Or Irene’s love of what Clare represented? Clare did what Irene didn’t do. She chose to pass, and gain all there was (materially of course). Suppose Irene wanted to pass, but was always to fearful of the outcome. Fearing of losing her family, friends her past.

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

I noticed the lightening of the film. Irene's home was dark, and Claire's world was well lit. Thank you for post this. Intense movie, but wonderfully acted.

[@lucasblue20]

My pleasure! I love your observation about the brightness of Clare’s place in comparison to Irene’s. Everything about Clare’s life seems bright and pleasant on the surface. I loved the performances as well. Thank you for watching!!

[@kilimanjaro5537]

Maybe I’m reading too deeply into this but I also found it interesting when Clare mentioned her fears that her daughter would be dark and Irene chimes in and said her sons are dark. It’s interesting how Clare doesn’t really seemed to be that bothered that Irene’s sons are dark(and obviously because Irene isn’t passing for white whereas Claire is and that could be dangerous for her and her child’s safety)but I felt that part spoke to how dark skin sons are viewed in comparison to dark skin daughters. Even the way that Irene treated her dark skin maid whilst having dark skin sons speaks to the issue people have with dark skin girls but not dark skin boys.

[@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist]

I am so sorry you feel this way. I read this comments and it is telling of the psychological damage of being black in America.

[@amorelockster1023]

I noticed the same thing

[@alyssarose3880]

No, she said she was scared to have another child because she was afraid her daughter would come out to dark when she was pregnant with her and was lucky that she didn't. She didn't wanna take that risk again.

[@stephaniethierry1891]

I believe Claire was concerned about her daughter being dark b/c her husband was a staunch racist. Can't really blame her.

[@sarahmitchell5206]

There is a documentary called Dark Girls that explains the colorism inside and outside the black community. Worth a watch

[@alexis.kiaraaa]

it seemed as if irene was passing for straight and clare was passing for white. idk it could just be me who saw this but the way that they looked at each other and even the letter that was written made it seem like they were once together or wanted to be. interesting movie !!

[@ronee8942]

Exactly!! They definitely had something going on in the past. Irene didn’t like being intimate with her husband. I think Clare threatened her family bc she was tempting.

[@BallparkHunter]

I sensed a lesbian connection between Claire and Irene as well, but that was never explained it went into any details . Did they have something together when they were kids? From some websites, the book appeared to make mention of their love connection. However, I have not read Passing, but might be on my docket.

[@0103harleyq]

Yes yes yessss! I thought the same. Both parties are "passing".

[@chelseabonnette93]

I thought I was the only person that realized that. They gave off lovers vibe. The hand holding at the Negroes Dance, that ended with this awkward pull away when Brian came. Irene was silently obsessed with Claire that its as though she doesnt want anyone else to have her.

[@ronee8942]

@@chelseabonnette93 Exactly! She didn’t care that Clare was getting next to her husband, she only cared about her husband getting next to Clare. When Irene was at the window, Clare’s eyes were glued to Irene and then she had to catch herself, bc she almost began drooling 🤤 lol Also, after Irene’s first visit with Clare, she came home and came onto her husband hard and then she backed up bc she didn’t like to be intimate with him for too long. Lol

[@twylacrowder1256]

I think Claire purposefully “fell” out of the window because watching this scene, I noticed she actually looked back and stepped a little closer to the open window while her husband was yelling at her. Also, when her husband first came into the apartment yelling and asking where she was, Claire heard him. Everyone started turning their heads wondering what was going on and who was this yelling, and she never looked to see who it was or what was going on at first. She just walked over to where Irene was in a calm manner. Most people would know their spouse’s voice and I feel she definitely recognized his. She knew that he now knew her secret and her life would change in any numerous ways which would not be good for her.

[@erikadario2017]

I agree with you. I don’t believe she’d ever want to live in Harlem again, and she knew deep down she’d just kill herself if he ever found out.

[@wendigo3140]

I think she stepped towards Irene because this was her most likely advocate. Her husband would have been very hostile towards any black man or woman. Irene was white-passing and Claire's husband may have been more sympathetic to her.

[@acivilright]

Meanwhile in Switzerland... after she jumped/fell/was pushed, all I could think other than "This is horrible," is "What happens to her daughter."

[@twylacrowder1256]

@@acivilright me too. I was thinking the exact same thing.

[@HavardiYah]

Irene was stepping to her friend Claire for safety like buddies do.

[@gabrieltobias951]

During the opening cafe scene I believe Irene is also scared that Claire who she does not recognize has caught on to the fact that she is not white and at an all white restaurant, which is why she begins to get up to leave. I also feel that there are lesbian undertones between Clair and Irene and perhaps they experimented when younger.

[@AS-kx4bl]

Why must there ALWAYS be mention of lesbianism when two strong women of color are portrayed?

[@Biochemistry-Debunks-Corona]

@@AS-kx4bl, because they're hot and munching coochie is yummy

[@aloap0907]

@@AS-kx4bl Passing is literally lesbian literature. There have been many queer readings of this book and Rebecca Hall understood that!

[@AS-kx4bl]

@Alannah Of that I was unaware.

[@DrLauraRPalmer]

thats a great point about the opening scene - i think your dead on it - i hadnt thoght of that bc i hadnt realized Irene truly thought she was passing - she looks ethnic clearly but maybe thats exactly what she was doing - And no i doubt they fooled around as kids bc there was a scene of them wondering why they werent closer as girls, why they were never better friends - thats not something anyone who had once fooled around would likely say - just my opinion of course. Were just so over consumed with gayism these days that its the first thing we assume - This was 1920's - likely the furthest thought from their mind. Irene wasnt even interested in being her adult friend at first. It was Clara who forced herself into her life - another signal that they werent old lovers- the emotional investment just wasnt there.

[@WilliamsPinch]

I don’t think Clare even missed being “black” or having proximity to blackness. She liked being a novelty, fetishized… Just as Hugh’s wife was fetishized at the party.

[@kyleejoy1181]

EXACTLY!!!

[@WilliamsPinch]

@Andrea Rayford at all 😂

[@Cupids-1lover]

Hmm I disagree about the last part. I think she would’ve lived in Harlem, but only as a privileged white woman who could have her cake and eat it too. She could keep her privilege, still be fetishized, and enjoy all the things she missed about the black community ie food, music etc.

[@reimourrpower9357]

Clare definitely enjoyed the mask of being "the white hipster" who "slummed" in the speakeasys of Harlem, true to the time. That "ghetto tourism" whites did in Black jazz spaces & environments was common and Clare as 'white' would suffer little consequence like the 'real' white woman or men present.

[@reimourrpower9357]

@@Cupids-1lover disagree there. Only because Clare said she'd move in to Clare's home in Harlem as a Black woman casually. But when that only alternative was forced, she killed herself. Clare strove for 'whiteness' and was not about to relinquish that to live 'Black' in Harlem like Irene. Clare enjoyed the fetishized 'white tourism' of Harlem's Black social circles with choice to go back to being 'white' by night's end.

[@katieisjustagirl]

What I took away from this film was this: 1.) Clare was a selfish person who always got her way be either being underhanded or deceitful. Absolutely no regard for her fellow people of color. That’s a whole different kind of self hate right there. 2.) She basically pranced in and bit by bit started winning the favor of everyone around Irene. With the exception of Hugh who saw straight through Clare’s little games. 3.) Irene trying not to seem crazy from all the gaslighting her husband was doing, turned to self medicating (the bottle on the nightstand. Also explains why she’s always tired). 4.) After running into John she had the idea to snitch on Clare. That’s why she asked her the question of “what would you do if…” 5.) When Irene opened the window initially I honestly think she was considering jumping herself 6.) When John arrived Clare walked over to Irene and they had a whole conversation without words. She knew Irene ratted her out and she also knew she had it coming. 7.) I personally think that Irene either pushed her accidentally or as a reflex. OR… Clare jumped on her own. That’s just my interpretation. The cool thing about films like this is the fact that your own personal experiences impact your perspective. So different people with different experiences watch the same film but pick up completely different messages from it. All are valid.

[@lucasblue20]

Oh my goodness, you couldn't have said this any better. Every analysis is not "the" answers to the art, but are "someone's" answers for the art. I've always strongly believed this, and it's why I started this channel and why I love the comment section so much. And your interpretations are fantastic as well! I'm really glad you highlighted Irene's tiredness in the second half of the film, and your take on the ending is super observant. The actions and looks of the characters certainly speak volumes. Thank you so much for watching and your great insight!!

[@jdm6613]

What also stuck me odd is how Clare wasn't too surprised when John showed up. She should've recognized her husband's voice at the door. It was as if Clare wanted to ignore the truth. Also, Why did Clare ask for her drink during that moment as she hears her husband yelling and breaking through the party?

[@roslynwilliams4917]

I believe you were spot on it! I was a little confused about the ending. I also believed Irene told Clare's husband where she was. I had wondered if Irene was thinking about falling out of the window herself and if she had pushed Clare out of the window.

[@christophergregory1]

Irene didn’t rat her out though! She happened to bump into him on the street & he put 2 & 2 together seeing as Irene was w/ her black friend. Clare pulled her into that mess & it’s definitely on her.

[@christophergregory1]

@@roslynwilliams4917 No Irene didn’t. Remember he said he went to The Redfield’s home 1st. So either Zu or the babysitter told him where they were.

[@TS-wg6dk]

My own personal theory is that Irene had a hand in John’s appearance at the party that night. Just seemed all too coincidental, right? Amazing video and thanks for sharing!!!

[@skywalker6648]

Not only that, I think when she told her wealthy friend, she expected him to spill the beans to her Claire's husband as well.

[@AQuinn0630]

Me too

[@qt6137]

Agree

[@arimasmemphis4061]

Somebody had to tell him that she was passing and where she would be that night.

[@lucasblue20]

Love this theory so much, it's unique yet very plausible! And I'm so glad you enjoyed the video, thank you!!

[@pamelacooper-billips6223]

I love this. However, I’d like to offer: Irene pushed Clare because she saw how easy it would be for Clare to step into her place as a caring, fun wife, loving listening mother, friend to a maid. Clare confessed that she had no conscience. She practically admitted to being a sociopath. I think she had her eyes on a new prize!

[@TTime1111]

Clare was about to take Irene’s life. She gave her fair warning. That’s it that’s all.

[@tiayvette2048]

Ok see I thought she just fell back . But now I see that she did a slight push

[@jazziskincare9474]

Yes! I feel Irene pushed Claire because she was very bothered by how close her husband and Claire were getting. Yes it's one of those movies you have to decide what you think the ending is. I really love this movie and I thank the director for doing this movie, because this subject is barely touched in the Black community, people need to know this is real and was real, people actually did this to survive. This movie is a great mind and eye opener 👏👌💯🥰

[@TheQueenrevolution]

I agree with this here.

[@davidroussell5118]

PERFECT analysis. This is exactly the conclusions I came to.

[@india-jv6pm]

Option 4 The symbolism of the pot falling from the window with Irene trying to save it echos Claire's falling from the window with Irene trying to save her. The pot falling was inevitable because it was living on the edge as was Claire. I believe she tried to move out of John's way and fell. Like the pot. It just fell.

[@perlaguerra693]

Amazing take.

[@tashamac601]

Great point

[@chimchimgirlz]

Very great point! Thank you for pointing that out!! But you could argue that Clare stressing Irene made her drop the pot, just like the reasoning of Irene pushing Clare. Especially when she says the stuff about capital punishment.

[@india-jv6pm]

@@chimchimgirlz Claire stressed me TF out. Just too much. But I wouldn't agree. It doesn't fit the allegory in my opinion but I'd watch again to see if I see it.

[@jazziskincare9474]

WoW!! I didn't even think of the flower pot falling, yes! That was a symbolism ♥️

[@MizoletteTV]

I appreciate your synopsis of the ending. It does make the movie more meaningful. However, I don't think Irene would have pushed Clare to end her suffering. I think Irene would have pushed Clare because she (Irene) was secretly resentful and jealous of Clare. Clare was clearly a narcissist. She outed herself in the scene where she said she does anything to anyone to get what she wants. She was taking Irene's place and Irene was losing her identity. Clare would have killed Irene to have her life if it came right down to it. Just my perspective, but I truly loved yours as well. I watched this video a few times after the movie. Very insightful!

[@norman3209]

No because you definitely have a point I guess it also showed the perspective that even back then women didn’t have their own backs and would fight against each other but it’s interesting thinking whether the ending was more centered around racism or jealousy. But I personally think if it was jealousy it would also lead to race. We see how Irene is under payed and would argue w/ her husband abt sending the children to boarding school so it might have started of with that and the fact that Clare was slowly stealing irenes life.

[@lucasblue20]

@Aaron Miz Olette this interpretation is so great as well! I never saw Clare as that vindictive, but all of your points make it totally valid. I think the book also elaborated on Irene’s jealousy, making your theory one of the possible reasons for Clare’s death. Btw it means so much that you enjoyed the video! I’m so glad it was informative, thank you!!

[@skywalker6648]

That's the way I saw it too. It's like she opened the window on purpose. Also in some ways it almost seems Irene tried to set Claire up when she ran into her gorgeous husband and pretended not to know him in front of her Black friend. Would it have hurt to just say hi and keep walking? It wasn't like he was interrogating her.

[@nahemaford8625]

This was the vibe I was getting. She wanted to kill Clare Clare was trying to take her life And in the end I feel like , Irene was shocked that she actually did it But was relieved she did it and also sad of 1. Losing her toxic friend and 2. Upset she had too do it.

[@mirandajaleisa]

@@skywalker6648 exactly what I thought! It was so unecessary for her to move like that unless she wanted him to find out about Clare. He wasn’t fazed about the black woman Irene was with until she made it undeniably obvious. She could’ve been the help for all he cared

[@moonaja1765]

I don't believe Irene pushed Claire. But if she did I don’t believe she would push Claire because she was jealous of her flirting with her husband. Irene encouraged them to go out alone together even after seeing Claire flirt with her husband. The only plausible reason she would push Claire is because Claire aroused the feeling Irene was trying to run from for years. Irene wanted to be with Claire and those feelings weren't normal for ppl at that period in time. Every time she seen her the feelings would get stronger. The scene with Irene and her husband at the kitchen table, Irene projected her true feelings about Claire on to her husband. Claire's presence was starting to create a wedge in Irene's marriage and her feelings towards Brian. Getting rid of Claire was the only way her life could go back to "normal ".

[@khadijaali2476]

Wow this is such an interesting perspective. This movie is so layered I feel like I have to watch it again because honestly, the feelings Irene had for Claire… all of that went right over my head! I only realized Irene was also “passing” when the film’s director mentioned this angle in an interview.

[@moonaja1765]

The film definitely had a double meaning for the word “passing”. On the surface Irene could pass for white but in reality she was passing for straight.

[@wongwagiqwa1225]

Precisely, Aja. I agree with you 100% except I'm leaning towards Irene trying to protect Clare but it was too late.

[@moonaja1765]

@@wongwagiqwa1225 I agree with you Irene was very protective of Claire. I was just looking at it from another perspective.

[@Ineedpeace215]

I like your synopsis.

[@angelalynettelee]

I watched this video, read the comments and then watched the movie. I had typed up all my points to support my theory - then watched the ending again and changed my mind. This is your classic Greek tragedy (defined below). Irene did not intend to harm Claire, nor did she intentionally rat her out. Being found out was just a matter of time. I think Irene opened the window because she herself felt suicidal. She had unravelled and was depressed. When John stormed in, Irene and Claire both looked at each other with a knowing glance that Claire's time was up and because of who Claire was, there were no other options but death. Irene refused to let it be at the hands of John. So basically, it was assisted suicide. Greek Tragedy - a play in which the protagonist, usually a person of importance and outstanding personal qualities, falls to disaster through the combination of a personal failing and circumstances with which he or she cannot deal.

[@lucasblue20]

This take is super unique, and I love your supporting points! It's all really credible. It's almost like Option 2.5 (a blend of Option 2 and 3). I love your insights! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@angelalynettelee]

@@lucasblue20 Initially I wanted to build a case for Irene's husband ratting out Claire. He saw the toll that Claire's presence was taking on Irene. - After reading the letter, he peeped that Claire was already blaming Irene for her "wild desires". He told Irene not to give her an inch. - He saw that Irene was vulnerable to her because he told her not to make herself responsible for Claire's happiness. He knew there was more between them than just childhood friends. - He saw Irene basically unravel, accusing him and having disturbing dreams. What better way to end it, then allowing Claire to be found out.

[@jdm6613]

@@angelalynettelee It's odd how Irene's hubby warns her not to let Clare in. Then all of a sudden he's team Clare and inviting Clare without Irene's knowledge. What do you think of the scene when Irene breaks the teapot? He comment to Hugh, how Hugh tried to hid the accident, and how Irene admitted Hugh did not bump her? Was it a rxn to Clare's lie, saying she read all of Hugh's books? If I'm not mistaken Clare told Irene she only read a few of his books?

[@tigerlily1034]

I agree that Irene opened the window because she was suicidal however I think the looks they exchanged was Clare in shock that Irene told John…it was more of a “ How could you? I thought you were my friend” look🤔

[@ninewon]

'By jove I think you've got it!' 😁 This is it!

[@summerraine3934]

Wow! This is hands down one of the best comment sections on KZbin. I love reading all of the different literary interpretations. Makes me want to go watch the movie again after reading all of the different theories about Irene and Claire.

[@lucasblue20]

Agreed! This comment section is fantastic! So many fresh, unique, and plausible ideas. Thank you for watching!!

[@notaverage1247]

Claire jumped to her demise. If she was pushed she would have let out a scream or a squeal at the least but she just falls back, kind of gracefully. Also notice how Irenes hand just stays in the same place she reaches out to protect Claire from for what seemed like 1-2 minutes then she slowly takes her hand back as the crowd reacts to her fall. Claire’s suicide wasn’t meditated but it WAS intentional from my perspective! Also Irene definitely set her up after suspecting that she was messing with her husband... think about it Irene asks Claire what she would do if her husband ever found out at such a suspicious timing, also I suspect that Clare leaked Irenes address to her husband bc she was tired of Irene showing up unexpected and “stealing” her life!

[@davielove11]

Yes, but Brian could have set Claire up as well...seeing how miserable her presence was making his wife and once happy marriage. There was something haunting about the way he was leading Claire upstairs to the party...and if Claire's flirtatious ways went too far...and disrespected his marriage...yes, he would have motive to remove Claire's presence from his wife life as well.

[@sophiaelayne9984]

Exactly!

[@bereajohnson8906]

💅🏾💅🏾💅🏾👏🏾Absolutely..."Petty is my favorite color"

[@TheLauren1113]

Agree - I think John figured out that Irene was black when she saw Irene with her black friend. He then found out where Irene lives and learned from the maid where they were. He said he went to the Redfield’s house first. John would have killed Claire but she jumped before he could get his hands on her.

[@christophergregory1]

No back then you could call 0 & find anyone’s phone # & home address. Plus Irene’s husband was a Doctor so it wouldn’t have been hard to find him. So he went to their home & whoever was there, Zu or a babysitter, told the White man where they were. Irene asked Clare that question bcuz she saw her husband earlier that day or the day before. Maybe Clare’s husband confronted her about seeing Irene on the street. Maybe Clare who was absolutely unethical, told her husband that it was Irene who in fact may have been passing & has lied to her all of these years. Remember she told Irene she’d do ANYTHING to get her way. Then Clare’s husband started to think about how Clare’s skin gets so dark as she ages & how she doesn’t want anymore children. I believe Clare knew what was coming that entire night!

[@LSERA13]

"Death by misadventure" - a death primarily attributed to an accident that occurred due to a risk that was taken voluntarily.

[@StefShock]

When Clare said she would move to Harlem if her husband found out and then her husband randomly showed up to the party, I think Clare was setting it up for her husband to find out and Irene wasn't going to take the risk of Clare stepping into her life. Irene's subconscious pushed her out the window. Amazing film!

[@ashleamh24]

Very interesting perspective I hadn’t considered

[@DrLauraRPalmer]

i seriously doubt it. That didnt match her moral character and she wouldbt ruins somesone party that could end in tragedy just to do something against her character - if so her type would have more class about it - but she is not the type i feel to ruin a whole woman and her childs life. Just my take - i do wish they wouldve explained more - i found the movie dismal due to so much left in the air -

[@55555gino]

Clare jumped herself, no one pushed her. When Irene asked her before if she had a plan for when he found out about the passing, her nod made me think directly of suicide. The husband reaction in the end is also not of someone who just pushed their partner. This movie was a piece of art, incredible acting, directing, score and cinematography

[@JudgeSarahHeidelIsARacist]

I think he pushed her!

[@findmeanewplanet]

He was angry no doubt but he was generally broken about everything. I think the deceit and her death, with no answers, were just too much.

[@DrLauraRPalmer]

A lot of assuming - But its simply a theory. You speak as if your opinion is fact. Id like to hear teh director speak on this piece.

[@selah21740]

Lovely analysis. Here's my take: I do think Irene intentionally pushed Clare, but I also feel this plan was mutual but unspoken between Irene and Clare. Hear me out. Rewinding to right after Irene's encounter with John, once she gets home, she attempts to reach Clare at her home, explaining to the operator that "It's urgent." When it becomes clear that Clare is not available, Irene revises her statement with tears in her eyes, saying "Nevermind, it's not that urgent...I'll try again later." She never does. I believe at that moment is when she really stops to consider the potential benefits of allowing her friend to be found out by her husband. In the next scene we witness her distress as she grapples with this decision, sitting on her porch in the cold. While sharing that moment on the stairs with Clare, Irene still withholds information about her encounter with Irene's husband, despite knowing that Clare's ignorance of these details could, and ultimately do, lead to fatal consequences. I agree with what others have stated in the comments about Clare knowing when her husband is at the door that she'll soon be meeting her end. It's clear that Irene can hear the commotion at the door. Given that she and Clare are at a similar proximity to the door, we can be certain that Clare hears her husband as well, yet she is not alarmed. In fact, she asks for her drink. Interestingly, as John approaches, Irene and Clare exchange knowing glances. It was as if both knew what needed to be done, and Irene was asking if Clare was sure. This would also make sense given that neither Clare nor Irene screamed when Clare fell.I'd imagine Irene felt such a confusing flurry of emotion as she looked down on Clare's lifeless body: grief, relief, guilt, regret, confusion. Irene clasping her hands behind her back suggested to me, however, that despite the overwhelm of emotion, her actions were intentional. The last nail in the coffin to confirm that Irene purposefully pushed her is that as she is slowly walking down the stairs, she overhears someone say they aren't even sure if she's dead. As the closest person to Clare apart from John at that party, it would only make sense for Irene to have run directly to Clare to check for signs of life if she truly was hopeful that her friend had survived the fall. It appears that this is what John had done given that he's sitting in shock quite close to Clare's body. Instead, she runs to her husband seeking confirmation that Clare did indeed die. Of course, everyone processes grief/trauma in different ways, so who knows, but I did find that to be a curious response. Very good movie.

[@jaded9388]

I get you’re analysis but after watching the scene over and over constantly I really don’t think Irene pushed her. I think she actually was trying to protect her. Watch her face when John lunges at Clare. She has this look like she was determined keep her from the harm of John because she did love her and probably felt bad for her in a way. She even gasps when she realizes that Clare fell (listen closely). And think about it, if Irene wanted her to fall then she wouldn’t have put her arm out at all and just allowed the husband to lunge. He could’ve possibly made her fall too with how fast he was coming at Clare, there was no need for Irene to put her arm out other than to protect her. I think she reacted the way she did after Clare fell because a part of her was happy that she could possibly be rid from her life but the other part of her was sad because I believe Irene was “passing” as straight and deep down loved Clare more than a friend. Like the film says “everything isn’t black and white”. It’s not always as simple as we think

[@AngelicTroubleMaker-LaVooDoo24]

YAAAAAAASSSSSSSS!!!!!!

[@amberhi874]

I agree with you, Irene was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Her marriage crumbling, her kids knowing the harsh reality of racism, and looking in the face of what she truly wants to be, Claire. Not passing but beautiful, charming, captivating, sexy. Everyone gravitated towards Claire, and Irene blended in with the wallpaper.

[@WilliamsPinch]

Irene pushed her. Because if you notice she looked down with both of her hands behind her back (throw a stone and hide your hand). It was also her who told John where Clare was. I did find it VERY odd how Irene and her husband allowed the boys to disrespect her. That’s extremely uncommon for children of any race in the 1920s, but particularly so for black children. I know it was intended to juxtapose how they revered Clare, but I found that a bit extreme.

[@rochellenicole6658]

Exactly!

[@K-i-ng_D]

Watched last night and when I saw her put her hands I said thought about the saying of throwing stones at a glass house and hiding your hands 😂

[@WilliamsPinch]

@@K-i-ng_D YES!

[@daw7773]

Good points, I also thought that Irene's children were spoiled brats.....very disrespectful to Irene and Claire. Their voice tone was very rude when speaking to Irene and at first Claire too.

[@velinabrown2708]

Yes. The boys disrespecting Irene their mother was very odd.

[@britneyjones6683]

Wow I agree with all of these! I was leaning more on Irene pushing her out of anger and immediately regretting it because of the huge pause before going downstairs to check if Claire was actually gone. Another scene that struck my attention was when Clare and Irene sat on the porch while listening to the neighbor play and Clare said that she would do anything to be happy no matter what, hence her getting closer to Brian because Brian wasn’t impressed with her at all in the beginning. It’s crazy how confident Irene was with having Claire around Brian in the beginning and then toward the end she was so insecure! This movie had my head spinning !

[@bereajohnson8906]

She was insecure at the end because her husband started giving more attention to Clare...following her around like a puppy 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@davielove11]

I believe that Claire my have been set up by Irene...Why? Right before the party, Irene asked what would she do if her husband found out. Irene probably wanted Claire out of her life and world.. since her family, maid and friends all seem to be gravitating towards Claire and Finally, Irene's behavior at the party is a bit aloof and strange... sitting alone as if she's waiting for something to happened and something does...nevertheless someone seemed to provided Claire's husband with direct information about where the party from the building address, time and apartment number.

[@davielove11]

@@adk7165 Even after Claire takes her fall from the window... Everyone runs downstairs to check on her, except ...guess who? ...Irene. Perhaps she needed a moment to regain her composure and make sure she responds appropriately, once she finally comes down to the court yard.

[@rosarior9623]

@@davielove11 posiblemente el marido de Clare llegue por Irene pero lo que no entiendo es por qué cae Clare, la empujan? Quien? Se suicida?????

[@mykellaharley9836]

I agree that it all felt coincidental but I did want to mention that Clare's husband said he went somewhere else at first looking for her (I think he said Irene's house) and they told her she was at that location.

[@Bronzed_In_Elegance]

@@davielove11 Great point, Irene was also very nervous to hear that she might not be dead…fearing that Claire could say what really happened.

[@tashamac601]

💯‼️ and flirting with Irene husband right in front of her. Irene could have spoke to her husband that day on the street to help protect her but she didn’t because she was envious of her life just as Clare was envious of hers. I believe she pushed her.

[@jackbyrd53]

I found it interesting that the movie started with her seeing the man passed out on the street from what everyone assumes is "the heat". Others are attending to him- she is disconnected. She is the observer on the ground. She doesn't really know what happened but carries on. The movie ends with her at the top of the building looking down at her Clare dead on the ground. Everyone runs to see what happened... but again, she appears disconnected/not sure what happened. Even once she finally goes outside, everyone is trying to figure out what happened, but she is "just there". Maybe the point is is that in life things can " just happen". We give meaning/interpretation to what happens. All of those factors may have played a role or not in the outcome. Maybe the the truth is is that in all of the commotion, she just fell out of the window. The fact is that any of the 3 could have fallen out. Just like the beginning of the movie and the end of the movie-- no one really knows how it happened...we know that it happened.

[@jdm6613]

Thanks for mentioning the movie's beginning. I didn't know what to make of the man on the ground. The whole uneasiness vibe Irene gave off about the situation left me confused.

[@clarkemcclinton3276]

I wanted to fight Irene’s husband the whole movie.

[@clarkemcclinton3276]

@Spirit Unbound he was entertaining Claire inappropriately the whole movie. He’s married

[@medjina12]

He’s the only stable character in the whole thing

[@bereajohnson8906]

Me too like dang sir!! 🤧🤔🙅🏽

[@darlingdannie]

Do you mean Clare's husband? Because he was horribly racist.

[@bereajohnson8906]

@@darlingdannie Oh she definitely meant Irene's husband...Clare's husband wasn't even a main character...💅🏾💅🏾💅🏾

[@sophiaelayne9984]

I hope this wins the Oscar for Best Film, Costume Design, Lead/Supporting Actor and Best Director. Stunning film.

[@Asia.Persuasia]

I saw it as: Irene was in love with Clare (or possibly once was- at this point grew to lust. This means that she may be bisexual. Being trapped in an unhappy/stale marriage with her husband began to eat at her when she really wanted Clare. Her affection and intimacy with her husband was always unauthentic and forced), and Clare was in love with the superiority she had over Irene (i.e., flirting with Irene's husband right in front of her; showing off her own White husband and letting Irene sit defenseless as he addressed Clare as "N•g" and say other abhorrent things about Black people; constantly upstaging Irene and being the life of the party around others; Getting close to Irene's children and her maid while both the latter had a possible disdain for Irene herself). Irene constantly did things to make Clare happy, even practically throwing her husband at her when she noticed that Clare showed interest in him. It seemed like maybe during their childhood they had an unhealthy co -dependency, and this resurfaced when they reunited. This is why Irene suddenly became a "people-pleaser", she thought she outgrew it once they grew apart but clearly it was repressed. Irene very well recognised Clare that morning at the hotel restaurant, she just pretended to because she did not want the "old" her to reemerge, she wanted to be seen as the superior one for once. I also believe that Irene internalised what Clare said to her outside that day and somewhat embodied it herself (the narcissistic spiel Clare gave about "doing anything to get what she wants"); Irene took that to heart considering she wanted Clare but felt as though too many variables were in the way. A classic case of "If I can't have you to myself, then nobody can". -This is why she pushed her out of the window. If she never ended up pushing her out of the window in that moment, I believe later on that night she would have pushed her down the staircase inside of the apartment complex. I believe that both Irene and Clare exhibit multiple traits from some "Cluster B" Personality disorders.

[@Tarahort4511]

I am soo happy to see someone else felt the bisexual undertone in the film

[@Asia.Persuasia]

@@Tarahort4511 yes it was so blatant to me, Clare was definitely infatuated. I'm surprised we are one of the few to pick up on it. I also think that Irene definitely called Clare's husband, hoping that he would reject and abandon her (again, so she could have Clare to herself and get Clare's attention off of her husband and back onto herself), and I think the book/film title itself ("Passing") was a metaphoric/subliminal foreshadowing to these series of events (Clare and her husband "passing" by NY for business, Irene "passing" the hotel restaurant and deciding to stop inside, Irene and her friend "passing" by Clare's husband outside, Clare "passing" away at the end) beside the obvious meaning for White-Passing.

[@504nawlinsfinest4]

I never post and have to agree with the bisexual tones of this movie. Plus, add the fact that Tessa is openly bisexual, I can see her jumping at a role like this. Irene definitely had a infatuation for Clare, but Clare was also envious of Irene’s life. Irene seemed to be looking at sharing her husband to have a open relationship until Irene’s slow boiling jealousy kicked in and caused Irene to derail her initial impulses. In the end, I truly enjoyed the discussions emanating from this movie.

[@AshleyLaurenmusic]

@@Tarahort4511 I thought it was superrrr obvious lol, actually from the beginning when Clare recognized her, and then when her husband read the letter. I was like, ummm they were lovers or something! Then the whole grab the hand scene at the party was a dead giveaway.

[@moonaja1765]

Wowwww. I’m happy asl I wasn’t the only who noticed the attraction. You said want I wanted to say so much better.

[@TheMMFamily9]

I think it really addresses the fear that makes you never feel free.

[@saleemahfareed4790]

😊

[@lynne4948]

Great summary! When the movie ended, I was reminded of Claire’s line “we are nothing alike.” Indeed they were just alike. Irene wore the mask much better than Claire. I believe Irene orchestrated the entire evening to make it appear as an accident or something more sinister. It was clear to me that Irene would go to any lengths just like Claire to get what she wants...

[@Aroura619]

I believe that she jumped herself. Claire before the party told Irene that she already knew what she would do if John found out. And when John found out that’s when she moved towards the window. I think it is option three

[@wintersantiago2274]

Irene pushed her

[@ameiar7145]

i think you explained the symbolism and ignorance so well! the hidden but obvious symbols made the movie so interesting to watch. it felt like we were waiting for something dramatic to happen as their own anixieties/worries were increasing and the audience could definitely feel it. i loved it omg

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much! I’m so glad you liked it! And yes, the movie was phenomenal. I agree, there definitely was this feeling of super subtle tension slowly building throughout the whole film as soon as we saw that first shot of Clare at the café. A lot of feelings were definitely being held in by both women

[@skywalker6648]

Yet, nothing surprising really happened. As someone else pointed out, it would have been helpful if there was more of a backstory so that what happened in the end may have had more of an impact.

[@eyeamLadyDi]

I feel like Irene & Claire had feelings for eachother

[@venaprince8185]

Me too

[@girlfromlondontown.442]

Yes I think they did. I believe they got married & had kids because that's what society expected of women at the time.

[@PraiseRess]

Once Irene didn’t address John while clutched near her Black friend. He had significant suspense somehow and that was quite the twist.

[@BallparkHunter]

My wife saw that as well.

[@arcblackmomba]

Definitely, after seeing that reaction and her being so chummy with a black person all the dots would have connected by the time he walked down the next block lol

[@amandamalone5003]

good point.

[@jdm6613]

But why was John in Harlem if he hates black people so much?

[@sunshinesista9784]

@@jdm6613 For the same reason Strom Thurmond and Thomas Jefferson might have gone.

[@peaceminded5512]

Loved your analysis. I think it’s weird that John showed up to the party. How did he know where to go and when? Also, when Clare knew her husband was coming to accost her ……she went to stand by an open floor to ceiling window? Irene didn’t flinch when Clare fell and remained behind with her hands behind her back for a while. I think Clare orchestrated it all to get Clare out of her life and away from her husband. She didn’t mean for her to die, but when it happened she was relieved.

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much, I'm so happy you loved it! And yeah, the theory of Irene expecting John's arrival makes a lot of sense considering all of her prior feelings and the events leading to Clare's fall as you've mentioned. This seems to be the most popular interpretation, and it's super credible. Thank you so much for watching!!

[@quilombodospalmares8225]

In emphasizing the 'luxury' of Clare's chosen life, you underemphasize Irene's own privilege as the wife of a physician who apparently does not work and is active in the black socialite scene. There is also clearly a homoerotic element to their relationship which is captured in at least two awkward 'touching' scenes. Finally, the symbolic significance of the crack on the wall in Irene's home, which widens each time it is seen, seems to mirror Irene's destabilization once Clare re-enters her life.

[@oliviawatkins7194]

🎯

[@beewoke]

Excellent analysis! For a while, Claire seemed to feel that she had overcome major obstacles by passing and was satisfied…for a time… only to realize that she had placed herself in a position worse than hell…she’d lost her sense of self and, effectively, belonged nowhere.

[@lucasblue20]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video, thank you!! And yeah, I agree with everything you've said. She continuously digs herself deeper and deeper into a point of no return. Thank you for watching!!

[@asanta2023]

I can see your point in Claire eventually belonging ‘nowhere.’ So true..,

[@loveisamanybeautifulthing2c]

*My theory: not only was Irene passing as white(for one day) but also as an lgbtq person(but not only for one day).* *Irene was infatuated by Claire-had reached out for her hand at the dance-then had pulled back-she had signs of coveting her.* *She'd felt something stirring inside/infatuated especially whenever she was around Claire but then it transitioned to envy/fear with Claires' flirtation, when focused elsewhere-as when she's being wooed by Irenes' husband Brian.* *Irene was envious of this as Claire seemed to have what she in fact had wanted~and Claire felt the same about Irenes' life, as well as freedom in her own community.* ~~>*(It's been said: "The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.")*

[@lucasblue20]

I love your interpretation. I had the same exact thought as you with the "grass is greener" analogy when I finished the film. The video is my pleasure, I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@loveisamanybeautifulthing2c]

@@lucasblue20 *..Thank you very kindly Lucas Blue.* *It was a pleasure to watch and hear your take on this.* *Have a lovely day!*

[@jbills3000]

OMG! I thought this too! I totally agree, but didn't think anyone else noticed the lgbtq undertones.... Thank you!

[@loveisamanybeautifulthing2c]

*Yaaas! The lgbtq undertones were sounding off quite clearly throughout the movie, it seemed.* *Glad that you noticed it, too!....And you are most welcome.* :D

[@lorenenoe4472]

@@jbills3000 Yes, I noticed the way the women looked at each other immediately and thought the story might take a turn for the ladies to end up together.

[@Khaeysa]

Did anyone think Clare was depressed? It explains why she was talking to Brian (a doctor) so much and at the end of the movie she moved so closely to the open window.

[@lvzyours]

I think she was depressed that’s why she was clingy to Irene but girrrll that’s not why she was being chummy with Brian

[@BIOL6895]

he wasn't a psychologist

[@linzeeb4]

@@BIOL6895 Psychology wasn't as distinct from medicine in the 20s as it is now.

[@pamelarontziokos151]

"When the comfort of ignorance is taken too far, the consequences are soon to be life-changing or better yet - life-threatening."

[@lucasblue20]

Wow I'm so happy you connected with that line haha it took me a moment to realize it was me who said that. Thank you so much!!

[@ranestorypictures1738]

The best movies keep you thinking about them long after watching. This film was brilliant.

[@lucasblue20]

I couldn't agree more with this, this is so true

[@creolediva9457]

I’m inclined to believe that Clare jumped out of the window. She was already living on the edge and even seemed detached from reality. Clare was carrying a heavy inner anguish of misery and shame. She was more capable of ending her life than facing her big lie.

[@Zazzeling46]

Just saw this today. It was so moving and thought provoking. Honestly, I felt for Claire. There was a sense of security (maybe a false sense of security) that came with passing back then, but at what cost? But anyway, great video!

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you! So happy to hear you enjoyed it! I think your term, "false security" is the perfect word to describe Clare's circumstances. Like you said, the cost just really doesn't seem to be worth it, and I think Clare realized that once she spent enough time with Irene and Brian. Thank you so much for watching!!

[@skywalker6648]

How could it be thought provoking when she never shared her thoughts? Even her husband tried to get her to talk. Tbh, I really think they should have centered the story more on Claire as her story was actually more tragic than the other.

[@Zazzeling46]

@@skywalker6648 Oh, I meant more in the sense that the movie itself was thought-provoking.

[@skywalker6648]

@@Zazzeling46 Except it wasn't, lol.

[@Golden90960]

One was passing as white, one was passing as straight. Hugh asks Irene if she would ever try passing and Irene said, who’s to say I’m not. Sex is brought up pretty quickly in the film to show that she doesn’t like being touched by her husband but can tolerate it after she’s been around Claire. she likes the nice quiet life they have and wants to keep her sons as safe and normal as possible. She doesn’t want to be reminded of reality when it comes to her own sexual thoughts for Clair or any woman, or when it comes to racial violence against black people. She wanted to know what Clair would do if John found out because she herself probably told John and John said when he entered the party that his wife told him who she was with, he saw Irene on the street and when she snubs him you can tell he starts to put it all together. She opens the window knowing Claire will come near her when John arrives. Irene has tons of motive and it’s all very suspicious. She doesn’t wasn’t Claire coming to wreck her life up more now that she knows Claire’s husband knows and Claire wants to come live her single life with her, to probably steal away her husband instead of be with her so she pushes Claire out the window to protect all of them from the harsh realities they’re being confronted with and deeply afraid of.

[@rae-everything]

I don't think Irene pushed her necessarily. But, this is a good theory.

[@DrLauraRPalmer]

absurd - not her characters caliber at all to risk a black woman and her childs life by interfering and exposing a secret that could lead to death - to want someone dead is a huge gesture a dn i doubt someone of her caliber would do such a thing - and if she was pushed she would have screamed im sure - but again the movie was written in a way to spark conversation - i find most got it wrong though - shrugs

[@Richardangelo84]

I personally think it was Option 2 and I think Irene was secretly threatened by Clare because she had maintained such a high social status from being a light skinned black woman and didn’t want someone coming in and disrupting that, let alone the fear of losing her husband. I also thought it was very purposeful the way Irene treated her nanny to showcase her privilege due to colorism.

[@lailalovegood365]

I thought that too. Irene didn’t even seem to show any attention towards the housekeeper, not even a thank you. Irene was privileged as well, even it Black society. It seems like she didn’t acknowledge it.

[@mykellaharley9836]

I thought owner was harsh to her maid for sure. But to say it highlights her privilege due to colorism seems to be a bit of a stretch, maybe even a lazy analysis of the situation. She was married to a doctor and among many Black people of all shades who were successful. She was also a educated, intelligent and poised woman with a good moral compass. That was why she was successful. Then and now Black people have different levels of success and income. That's not caused by Colorism.

[@Richardangelo84]

@@mykellaharley9836 thank you for that observation. I know I had a visceral reaction to how cold Irene treated Zu, especially when Zu initially befriended Clare outside of the house. I assumed their class and status in Harlem would attribute to that, but also thought choosing a maid with deeper complexion was purposeful to the narrative that Irene experienced some privilege from the way she looked. Obviously a very nuanced issue.

[@mykellaharley9836]

@@Richardangelo84 I don't understand why Irene(not owner as I said in my last comment that spell correct changed) was so mean to Zu if nothing else but from being a fellow Black woman who has experienced similar harsh treatments. She didn't even seem to acknowledge her in the morning by saying Good Morning. Zu definitely had a darker skin which I noticed but I just don't think it was to highlight her success because of Colorism. Honestly, I think the goal of the Director was to put a lot of darker skinned Black people around Irene and Clare to make them look lighter. But I'm guessing... I also expected Zu to have a bigger role since it was played by Jennifer Hudson.

[@jacobnepochatov992]

I don’t think Irene is the antagonist

[@namidabh]

I have a theory. Irene was actually in love with Clare, there was a scene where irene grabbed irene's hand, and when someone approached them Clare remove it quickly. Irene was afraid of her true feelings about Clare, that's why she didn't want to move to Europe. In the end, I think it was a mix between love and envy. And passing wasn't only about color but also about sexuality.

[@NYCITY3]

In the book it covers her sexuality.

[@lucasblue20]

This theory is fantastic! Your observations seem to reach the depth of the book based on what I've read about the book. Thanks so much for this, and thank you for watching!!

[@daijoboo]

I'll have to watch it again, but I thought I remembered Claire touched Irene's hand in the beginning and Irene pulls back. I said immediately that they had some type of experience or attraction from the past. Irene wanted to continue to suppress that past. She passed as straight just as Claire passed as white. I have to read the book now, per comments this part of the "passing" theme is in there.

[@daw7773]

@@daijoboo They "touched hands" twice during the movie once at the restaurant/hotel and again at the first party.

[@csmith6530]

I agree with this.There was a scene when Irene and her husband were in bed and she kept going on about how beautiful Clare was. I also noticed how she reached out for Clare’s hand.

[@savannahhalm]

I feel like Irene is the reason John found out that Claire is passing and snitched bc she felt like she had something for her husband. Irene basically told Hugh that claire was black. She wanted claire to be caught bc she was jealous of claire. Also I felt like the movie showed the privilege of lighter skinned women. I think Irene was jealous of Claire bc she was more white passing than her and men liked Claire better. Her husband says he likes his women dark but yet he is with white passing Irene. Also the way Irene treats the dark skinned maid like she is better than her. I think Irene set up her friend to get claire out of her life. Claire represents what Irene wishes she could be and do. Claire doesn’t have to have the conversation with her daughter that the world would treat her bad. Claire is charismatic and her husband seems to wish he could be with her. Seems Irene doesn’t want her life and the responsibility of being the perfect black wife. I think in terms of ignorance John wanted to be ignorant concerning his wife’s occasional darkness but claire was going around hanging out with black people and Hugh knew. Rumors were probably spreading, he was probably okay with Claire passing had she not made herself so suspicious. But making it public knowledge posed a risk to him and how he himself and their daughter would be treated by society and his own family. I think John loved claire in his own way. I think he was going to shake her and scream in her face but claire jumped out the window while Irene tried to stop claire from jumping so she could face her consequences.

[@angelrobinson5998]

When I watched it, I honestly thought Irene accidently pushed clare out the window. John was obviously going to hit her or something and in the movie, it seemed as if Irene held her arm out to protect Clare, forgetting the window was open. And when she did that it caused Clare to stumble back and out of the window.

[@AuntieThree]

Tru

[@PraiseRess]

I believe Clare jumped base on how the movie shows her landing it didn’t look like John actually got a hold of her.

[@lailalovegood365]

That’s an interesting perspective. Also, the lack of a scream is what made me believe that Clare jumped. When she saw John, she knew that her life as she knew it was over.

[@__kash]

@@lailalovegood365 good point about her not screaming

[@zoemitchll6765]

So are you not going to address the obvious envy Irene has for Clare because she’s flirting and possibly having an affair with her husband? Not to mention that is the reason that she pushed her out of the window…

[@BrightAura777]

Oh so she did push her huh? I thought so too but wasn’t sure

[@TJ-qm2qx]

@@BrightAura777 yep I rewatched it a couple of times. For a split second they showed Irene pushing Clare’s stomach a bit.

[@TheMMFamily9]

Yeah I got the tension and flirting too..but I did not get that as relatiation in the push if there was one..non of the men sort of jumped in between, Irene did, so I got that their was an energy between then too

[@arisadarkone]

I believe there was jealousy , but I don't believe that Irene intentionally pushed Clare out of the window, I believe Clare allowed herself to fall...

[@tryagain5939]

I almost thought Irene went behind Clare on purpose notice moments before that Clare glances at Irene at the window as if she knows that very look a look of depression and suicide.

[@MizzNee796]

There’s another book set around the same theme and 3 sisters called “ No easy place to be” for people who still read.

[@thepurpleone5959]

Thank you…I will check that out.

[@MizzNee796]

@@thepurpleone5959 you’re most welcome

[@lailalovegood365]

Thank you for the suggestion

[@MizzNee796]

@@lailalovegood365 you’re welcome 😉

[@rroberts7073]

I feel like John knew that Claire was black, he didn't want to ask. He loved her. Fascinating! This is happening today.

[@velvet123]

I wish they showed more of how John treated Claire in private. He obviously knew something was off. I felt also that John was controlling of Claire as well.

[@jdm6613]

@@velvet123 🤔

[@kilimanjaro5537]

@@velvet123 yes, for some odd reason when Irene left at the beginning and John closed the door, I imagined him slapping Clare as soon as it closed or something, I don’t know. I thought they were going to show the interaction between John and Clare after he closed the door but they didn’t. It makes me think if Clare also wanted to escape to Harlem because he was controlling and abusive. Obviously she wasn’t happy in the marriage but I was curious as to was there more to it. I also feel like the use of the word safe which is brought up a couple of times could’ve also been alluding to her relationship with John.

[@velvet123]

@@kilimanjaro5537 that’s the vibe I got that he probably verbally and also physically abused her.

[@colleenlewis2780]

My mother & grandmother both light skinned black Women from California told me stories when I was little About light skinned people that left their black families and passed for white ..Clare’s death was accidental..She was terrified of John’s rage while backing up to distance her self from John She accidentally fell over the balcony.

[@MyMamaEra]

Did anyone else feel that Clare was going to push Irene while she was smoking with her back turned… the way she slid around the living room and stopped at the wall and was looking around suspiciously… keep in mind Clare said she had no morals and would do anything to get what she wanted…

[@velvet123]

I got that weird vibe too!! But than that twist came.

[@shanequamatthew6821]

I feel like both women are opposites Clare even called it out saying “you see I am nothing like you.” Clare though passing as white seemed to live in the now appreciating everything with black culture all the things she missed. Her spirit still connected to her culture. Where Irene, seemed to be disconnected from her culture. She presented herself as everything was fine when in actuality nothing was fine. She had problems in her relationship, a disconnect with her children, and did not always treat her own black maid with respect. I agree ignorance is bliss. She wanted to keep her perfect lifestyle, her jealousy of Clare’s spirit and like ability to everyone, made her reveal the truth when she ran into Clare’s husband. She could have kept walking. By holding her friend hand it was a way revealing the truth. Clare said I’m not like you I will do anything to get what I want that’s where they both seemed to be the same because Irene sealed Clare’s fate since her husband found out wether, he pushed her, she pushed her or fell. She wanted to keep her “perfect” lifestyle and happy home and getting Clare back out her life was the only way. In my opinion 😘

[@ecinajx19]

@Lucas Blue Thanks so much for your excellent, articulate, coherent analysis of this movie, as well as clear audio without any intrusive and annoying music. I appreciate it! I found the ending a bit mystifying and replaying the scene several times did not help clarify. I did think Irene's first move was instinctively protective toward Clare. In spite of Irene's jealousy of the apparent closeness between Brian and Clare, I don't think anything serious was going on between them, nor was Irene so moved to push and kill her friend who she actually loved. My guess is that Clare backed up in the face of the husband's rampaging rage and simply fell, and that, probably, the fall was indeed a happier ending for Clare that the repercussions would have been.

[@lucasblue20]

Wow this is a really interesting way of looking at the ending, I love this, and I never thought of this way. It's almost as if it's this dark solution to many major problems that is no one's fault. Thank you so much for this and I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! It really means a lot!!

[@CoilyAmazonChic]

Magnificent!!! I thought I was the only one confused. I had to rewind 3 times before I Googled this.

[@dontlookforme1999]

It totally went over my head that these two women were or may have been lovers in the past.

[@jayejaye8152]

I really enjoyed listening to your perspective. Your perspective made the movie more meaningful.

[@lucasblue20]

This really means a lot, thank you! I’m super happy you could gain some new insight and meaning from the film. I love the movie! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@nat6892]

omg just read someone’s comment about that scene where clare said she would stop at nothing to get something she wanted. i feel like in that moment both clare and irene finally knew where they stood. clare would destroy irene’s life if she needed to, no regrets. irene finally got confirmation and set her up to be found out by her husband. i think she was debating whether or not to do it but i think when she didn’t greet john back, she had already made up her mind. just some thoughts!

[@roseabeeherringbone7264]

I think the ending was option 2. I’m not sure whether Irene told John where Clare would be that night, but she was 100% aware that Clare was infiltrating her social circle, her life and her marriage, and that Brian would be more than happy to offer her sanctuary as she’d have nowhere else to go. Also remember that scene where Clare confides in Irene about how ruthless and unscrupulous she was? I’m a firm believer that when someone tells you who they are, you should believe them, and I think Irene was too. I don’t necessarily think Irene planned it, but she might just have given Clare a harder shove than necessary when trying to shield her from John, hence her shock and nausea at realising this at the end. Great movie, brilliant summary 😊

[@princeLC]

It was pretty laid out that both women had a history of experiencing with each other or at least wanting to do do. Both Clare and Irene used used their abilities to “pass” to their advantage but Irene was ashamed of it. She knew she was taking advantage of this privilege while Clare didn’t care as long as she got what she wanted. Interestingly enough, Irene felt like she couldn’t exist in the same world as Clare and contemplated suicide as she stood by the window but when the opportunity came for Clare to be the one to die instead, she made may for that. She didn’t push her but she certainly didn’t help her either. In the end she got one more upper hand by allowing Clare’s husband who clearing caused her fall, to walk free because she felt that Clare deserved it. The film was more about envy and jealousy than it was actually about sexuality and skin color.

[@catsrus-es9eu]

Interesting point. Brian told the police that john pushed claire. Irene told them john didn't. Why do you think Brian said john pushed claire?

[@lanisessence2875]

@@catsrus-es9eu I believe Brian said John pushed claire with all the raged he had entering the party. But also with Brian’s feelings towards racist white people, from Irene’s and His previous conversation in the bed about how crazy claire might be. But Brian could’ve also said John pushed claire because of knowing irene’s true feelings towards claire and jealous motive. I believe Brian Loved Irene but also realized irene had some secret desire and was in love with claire. But was kinda settling as well as Irene was.

[@mireillemessan]

@@lanisessence2875 I’m interested to know about the clues that you noticed in the movie that led you to determine that Brian knew that Irene was attracted to Claire please share

[@rhondae8222]

Irene is too dark to pass for White. She has Black features (broad nose, large lips, and darker skin).

[@rhondae8222]

@@catsrus-es9eu That's because many, if not most, Black males envy and hate White men, but they love White women and all women who are not Black. Black males worship Whiteness. The entire world knows this. Lol

[@cutzymccall7675]

Oscars for everyone involved: Rebecca Hall, Director; Tessa Thompson, Ruth Negga and Andre Holland. (Skarsgard has a small part). This is about how racism divides the victims, pits them against each other. Irene turns out to be the far more self-delusional woman. In the long run, say what you will, Irene kills for her denial. It's also a feminist film: jealousy for Claire's successful "passing" as white, but also for her friendship with Irene's husband. Irene does push her out the window. I slowed the film down, and saw it clearly. She didn't do it for Claire, however. She did it out of envy and fear.

[@briyanaflowers7515]

Remember when Irene told Hugh “we’re all passing for something” I think that just signifies that while Clare was passing for being white and the privileges from that, Irene was passing for being straight and her true feelings for Clare … which wouldn’t bring any privileges in those times I feel like Clare and Irene both had something for each other when they were younger and probably both acknowledged it and ignored it at the same time and they never lost those feelings even when they were older and reunited

[@Cinematic_Bites29]

This movie is great given that it leaves a lot of plot holes and things to talk about. Irene is PASSING as a straight person, as it's evident in scenes where she seems to be lusting for Claire. She held Claire's hand at the party, and she has this fixation on Claire as if she has always had a thing for her, and Claire was aware of that and loved the attention that was given her, even though she wasn't really a lesbian. Claire was passing as a white woman, but even though she was wealthy, her life was boring, uninteresting, and her husband was always gone now and then. Claire opportunity came through meeting Irene and spending time with her family, flirting with the friend's husband, and being taken favorably by just about everyone. Irene was suffering from her feelings for Claire whenever she was around, liking and at the same time not liking the fact that her husband has taken to Claire as well. Irene also ran the risk of losing her entire family, knowing that it's way more likely that Claire can steal her husband and family from her, than she is a have a relationship with Claire. Knowing that she purposely ignore Claire's husband, which was alarming to the white man. And he eventually set out to discover any secrets of his wife, and Irene was merciless as she gave Claire a slight push backwards knowing that the window was opened, in a manner in which could be seen as accidental by others, or Claire's husband did it. At the end, she faked her tears, and moves on with her life, PASSING as a straight woman once again.

[@CultPOPGO]

I think the monologue about the dropping of the Teapot is very telling Re: window scene. I'm paraphrasing, but it's basically: "Silly me, I was looking for a way to get rid of this, and all I had to do was Break It."

[@beyondblessedyazz1047]

She Definitely Pushed Her Out That Window Like Smooth As Hell Too 🥴

[@peytonteague5965]

As someone who’s read the book and seen the movie now, i believe that Clare saw an opportunity to escape the consequences she was about to face and it happened so quickly that she really think before doing. Irene was growing tired of her, but i believed that Irene actually loved Clare, and almost fetishized her in a sense, but still felt threatened. But Irene was inconsolable when she seen Clare dead on the ground in the book.

[@elonr1018]

My mother in-law said her aunt passed and lived out her life in Oklahoma so it’s interesting to see a story based on it

[@sunshinesista9784]

Your mother in law was like Claire and my grandmother was like Irene in the way that she was married to a dark skinned man but passed on occasion when she was alone. Be interesting to know how many of us have a family member who passed on occasion or permanently.

[@AQuinn0630]

I just saw the movie but thought it was weird that Irene bring up the fact is John found out and then John shows up. I also thought Irene might have pushed her too but idk. Irene almost to me seemed to be getting annoyed and angry but Claire because in a since she was taking Irene’s life and I think maybe she want John to come.

[@phyltay1722]

Irene did it. Everyone liked and was attracted to Claire including Irene. Claire wanted and would do anything to have Irene’s life now. She said she was not moral like her during the stoop conversation. Irene saw the writing on the wall, their final question she posed to Claire on the stairs concerning what she would do upon John ‘s discovery nailed it.

[@LR-kj8ec]

Also had that feeling Irene wanted to be with Clare more than just friends... and maybe Clare knew that and purposefully flirted with Brian to reignite Irene's feelings for him by making her jealous. That would make option 3 the most plausible and that Clare herself called John to the party to find out finally who she really was before ending her life... which is sad since she has a mixed child with a racist white man

[@shawnpierre5755]

Your points are so well laid out, it makes the video fun to listen to. This was so helpful! Thank you so much!!

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much! My goal is always to be as clear as possible so this really means a lot. Thank you for watching!!

[@vieuphoria1008]

READ THE BOOK ... there’s so much that’s being missed

[@Cpre1111]

I thought Irene pushed Claire out the window intentionally. I saw Irene try to stop John as he stepped threateningly towards Claire, prompting Irene to nudge Claire behind her protectively. Despite genuinely trying to protect Claire, I think Irene consciously wanted Claire gone from her & Brian's life-and I think she was willing to go to drastic lengths to be rid of Claire. I think Irene told John where to find Claire, hoping he'd ruin her & ultimately rid Irene of having to ever see Claire ever again. Irene's initial reaction just after Claire fell wasn't remorseful, & that convinced me Irene deliberately pushed Claire. Also, there was a scene where Claire is watching Irene across the room, as Irene's gaze switches from the window back to Claire being flirtatious with Brian. I wouldn't call it premeditated on Irene's behalf, but I think the thought of pushing Claire occurred to her right then. After Irene pushed Claire, to me, she looked cold, detached & yet visibly relieved & accepting to be rid of Claire. When Irene gets into the courtyard with the others (& the police), that's when she realizes the gravity of what she's done (murder)-but only AFTER she approaches the others & sees how they're all looking at her in horror (except John) b/c they all KNOW she pushed Claire intentionally. I felt like the Black people stayed silent out of respect for Irene & Brian, not wanting to throw away Irene's life by telling on her for someone they didn't really care about (Claire, who was an outlier & a Passer). I think Claire's husband (John) remained silent (but in shock & grief) because he knows Irene did him a huge favor by killing Claire. The secret of who Claire truly was (a Black woman) died with Claire and we all know Irene & the others don't care enough to reveal Claire's true identity to the people in John's world. Now, John can carry on as a widower, & no one (outside the group) would truly know the truth about Claire. By staying silent, John saves face (meaning his reputation & standing in HIS world would remain unaffected). John's so racist, I'm positive he'd never tell his daughter (with Claire) the truth about her Mom. Claire dying as she did means that John's hands are clean in this & he now gets a 2nd chance to remarry properly. John knew the truth about Claire, but I don't think he ever would've killed Claire. I think John would've divorced & left Claire with nothing, but never kill her.

[@sadecooper8472]

Wow! You said it perfectly! I believe they were having an affair. Everyone starting liking her. So she pushed her.

[@babylonianbabe409]

this is the one

[@Cpre1111]

@@sadecooper8472 I definitely agree with you that Brian & Irene were having an affair. The scene just before the party, when Irene calls Claire's home and speaks to someone who tells her she's in her apartment with a gentleman guest. I think Irene thought it was Brian. I think the audience was supposed to wonder if Claire was with Brian. I thought it was Brian b/c he wasn't at home with Irene and the man on the phone would've said Claire was with Mr. Kendry (Claire's husband) rather than saying a gentleman or whoever he said it was

[@oliviawatkins7194]

Ohh…you nailed it.

[@Star-wd5en]

Such a great review, thank you 🙏🏾 In the ending I looked at it as Irene allowing Claire to fall because of all of the lies were to much of a burden as well as the possibility of Claire running off with her husband. So it’s as if she wouldn’t have mind if she was gone. I never once thought that Claire had jumped herself but now I can see that being a huge possibility. Thank you 🙏🏾

[@lucasblue20]

My pleasure, thank you! And yeah it really seemed like Irene applied the least possible effort to save Clare because of the long-term effect she could have on Irene’s life if she didn’t die at that moment. It’s quite sad, but I’m so happy you enjoyed the video. Thank you so much for watching!!

[@Ineedpeace215]

Everyone gasped and starred in shock after Claire fell out of the window except Irene. My initial thought was that Irene didn't look or didn't need to look because she was the one that pushed Claire to her death. Now I'm beginning to believe that she didn't look out of fear of the worst being true - true that Claire actually fell and died. Irene's reaction when she finally saw Claire's body in the snow, wasn't a look of vindication. During the movie Irene warned Claire about the risk of visiting Harlem and being around black people, she warned Claire of the harm that could come to her and even her daughter. Caring about Claire's safety(throughout the movie) is all the more reason why I don't believe Irene pushed her. When Irene asked Claire, "what would you do if your husband found out?" Well, sometimes we ask questions just to hear from the other individual something that we were already thinking and at the same time hoping for a different response. Considering this is fiction, it was a question to throw the viewers off, to create a link between Irene and how Claire's husband actually found out.

[@angelalynettelee]

I agree. Irene meant no harm to Claire. She internalized everything which caused her to be depressed and I think Irene was suicidal. Still she sought to protect Claire and the question about what if John found out, was actually to give Claire a warning. Where I differ is that I think Irene assisted in Claire's suicide. I think it was an unspoken agreement by the way they looked at each other. I think Irene was in shock because she knew she had to help Claire in order to protect her from John.

[@solitsins4633]

When Claire fell she had no reaction nor scream it was silent- she wasn’t crying because her husband found out it’s because she knew she was going to k*ll herself as the story grew she started becoming more serious and thoughtful of the things around her hints Claire bringing up “don’t think, whatever happens, I’ll forget how good you’ve been to me” in hopes that she (Irene) doesn’t blame herself. She knew it’d end this way.

[@tristanvoros8580]

Best movie reviewer on youtube

[@lucasblue20]

Whooa haha too kind, thank you bro!!

[@mickimilagro2800]

What about option 4--Irene pushed Claire out of jealousy and or fear that she would lose her husband to her, this WAS during a time when a woman who lost her husband pretty much lost everything. In this way Irene becomes like Claire in that she can do ANYTHING to get what she wants. I also felt Irene was attracted to Claire, and this realization was part of what made her hand shake and part of her jealousy.

[@larastap]

I thought about this too. I think that's the suggestion.

[@robee1602]

Irene was attracted to Claire, "something you feel in the presence of something strange, even perhaps a bit repugnant too, we are all passing for something or other "...I think she was talking about her feelings for her, this quote combined with the brief hand holding, small glimpses between each other at the beginning and Irene not being romantic with her husband makes me think that at least Irene if not both had feelings for each other, yet Irene decided to push Claire of the window because she was a threat for her family(her husband flirting with Claire, her kids loving Claire more and more). Claire said she would do anything for her happiness, she became closer and closer to Irene's husband and he was also clearly attracted to her. Irene became more and more depressed, lost and confused. Claire saying "I would move here to Harlem with you" was the last straw for Irene, because she knew that even if her husband found out she wasn't white, that would only give Claire the chance to finally be free and be herself, return back to her community and find a husband that would make her truly happy and Claire could easily take over her family if she really wanted, or at least confuse her and her feelings even more..so when the window scene happened and Claire's husband showed up it was the perfect opportunity for Irene's life to return back to "normal" again with Claire gone.

[@nat6892]

i also think in the scene right before the party, where irene gets the sudden urge to sit outside and listen to the music is her own way of saying goodbye to clare. the scene is so haunting and it's almost like she was stalling so that she didn't have to go to the party so soon. i don't know whether irene pushed her or not, it seems like clare jumped because of how easy the fall was but irene knew once john found out she'd likely never see clare again.

[@jenb.9454]

You are missing a lot about the conflicted relationships between the characters. They start out as foils of one another, but over-relate to and seem attracted to and fascinated by one another in ways that skirt sexual attraction--particularly given the clear lack of intimacy in their marriages. Initially, their sole commonality is the stringency with which they have ordered their lives to secure their places as upper-middle-class women: one in the white world, one in the Black world. When they engage with one another, however, they introduce a spontaneity that is girlish and somewhat reckless. Over time, Irene seems to understand the dangers of their behaviors but Clare does not (perhaps a social signifier of the fittingness of her adoption of whiteness). The manifestation of that dynamic is this: while Clare is comfortable converging upon and even entering Irene's world with few apparent limits, Irene cannot do the same. Irene perceives Clare as taking up space in her world and potentially even replacing her--and increasingly as Clare characterizes herself as a woman who will respect no limits to secure the desires of her heart! Within this context, a very ready interpretation is that Irene--whether purposely or subconsciously--pushes Clare to maintain space for herself in the life she has carefully curated for herself but foolishly invited Clare into.

[@crysberries]

Yea I watched the movie same as you did. I thought this analysis was surface level/duh. How can you skip over Irene really taking advantage of her complexion giving her an advantage in black high society. And no one’s mentioned the cracks in the ceiling…the cracks in the façade both women put up in their approaches to race. Like Irene trying to convince herself she is still satisfied with her life after Clare gives her something to think about.

[@hazel5189]

Agreed. Lucas Blue has given us a fairly superficial look at this movie. Lots more to it!

[@ashmith005]

this is peak content right here, keep up the good work dude

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much my friend, that means so much! I'll keep creating!!

[@KandyGTV]

I think the boys were rude to Irene because in their eyes she really couldn't understand the struggles of being black. They gravitated towards Claire because, like Irene was escapism and a trophy for their dad proving his success, they thought of Claire as a crush or someone they would desire to marry as an escape from a racist system later in life.

[@rhondae8222]

How is that possible. Irene was Black herself. Lol

[@juliezaugg]

I have always wondered about Claire's child. Upon her death, what would her husband do with the child now that he knows she is black? Would he keep pretending she is white and keep her, or send her away? As a mom I found it hard to think of Claire jumping to "solve" her own prolems, while leaving her child completely unprotected.

[@BOSSLADY-cu8vs]

I know one thing...Irene definitely called Claire's Husband... When Claire said she'll stay there with them if her husband found out she was passing...Irene was like no the hell you won't....

[@mariestarr8781]

Right I was thinking that same thing after Irene asked Claire what would she do if her husband found out. And then he magically appears at the party.

[@BOSSLADY-cu8vs]

@@mariestarr8781 Right....Like he would know where black people hung out....

[@1bunnsinger]

Thank you for sharing. I really appreciate this forum on this particular movie because of the curious ending.

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much! Yeah, I agree, this comment section is wonderful with so many unique and credible perspectives. Thank you for watching!!

[@isabelatrigueros]

amazing film, and great video!!

[@lucasblue20]

Thank you so much! I really loved the film as well!

[@phelelisiwedube8986]

I would like to think that Irene pushed Clair, because of the comment she made about the tea-pot, ' what I am coming to is the fact that I never figured out the way of getting rid of it till just this minute' then she stared at Clair. I may be overreaching, but looks like there is a connection between the two scenes.

[@rainbowq7611]

I was wondering why that ending, I thought Irene pushed her one moment but your explanation is more make sense. Thank you for that!! I was born as a Korean in Japan. And immigrated to the U.S because of racism toward Korean. So I remembered similar fear like Irene or Clair. I hope strongly the world becomes not feel this way anymore soon!! Thank you to Rebecca Hall for making this movie. It was a success to make a black-and-white movie with female friendship. It showed a more classic feeling.

[@rainbowq7611]

@@Carebear444 Thank you for your immediate reply. Since it is a country of immigrants in the United States, Asians are grouped together even if they are of different races, but Japan values ​​the pedigree most and excludes non-Japanese people. The problem is strong, and the traditional feudal system is still ongoing. Japan could not become a democracy that values ​​both "human rights" and "freedom" because of the mistaken postwar treatment of the United States. Japan colonized Korea about 100 years ago, but since then the government, which they consider to be No. 1 in Asia, has been in power. The United States should have abolished it after the war, but the United States left Japan as it was before the war. Since the United States thought that Japan should be used for military purposes, it did not abolish the "emperor system", left the prewar system, rescued the war criminals from the prison, made them CIA personnel, and made them the prime minister of Japan. I think Japan's misfortune may have been wrong because the United States was in a hurry to deal with it after the war. Only the Japanese economy was successful at one point but is now defeated. Perhaps this is something most Americans don't know, but I'm currently writing my story, including that history.

[@jennief7114]

@@Carebear444 LOL! There are 48 countries in Asia including India, Iran, Iraq, Israel. I crack up when people think only people from lets say Japan or Korea are Asian.

[@jennief7114]

@@Carebear444 Well, though you still were right in the fact that society does not call people from the other countries Asians and about the difference between racism and xenophobia. :)

[@losteezy]

Good video! If you’ve read the book though, you will get more background on your theories! I truly loved reading this book in school and enjoy reading the comments down below! this book is truly deep and examines many layers. the movie does a great job at remembering and dignifying it! it always sparks conversations.

[@Lolafalana12]

I thought at the end Irene accidentally nudged her back in an effort to protect her from her husband. I mean I related the fall out the window to a scene when a woman fell out the window in sex and the city. A quick slip can kind of put you in that spot and no amount of grabbing can save the person if no one is in just the right spot to do so. Awesome review 👏🏾

[@trippinwithamadi]

Lucas I love the way you broke down this movie. I definitely was trying to figure out what the ending was about. But you gave me much more!

[@lucasblue20]

I'm so glad you could gain new insight from the video! It's a big reason why I made this channel, so thank you so much! It means a lot!!

[@_teoni]

irene definitely pushed clare out of jealousy, you can see it when someone said that they don't know if clare was even dead when she slowly makes her way down the stairs. irene froze as if she didn't get away with murder. the final scene where shes gives a statement seemed performative to me, irene is a lot smarter than she portrays so she puts on an act to save herself from suspicion

[@stephaniethierry1891]

John would have pushed Claire if Irene hadn't beaten him to it. I believe Irene did it b/c she was jealous of Claire's beauty, and her ability to charm people (except Wentworth). Her husband, Brian, made no attempts to hide his attraction to Claire, and blatantly flirted with her right in front of Irene. Her children also loved Claire. Irene wanted to be rid of Claire for good, mainly so she wouldn't have to compete for Brian's affection.Toward the end of the movie, Irene asked Claire what she would do if John found out about her race. Claire replied that she would move to Harlem to live with her. Irene certainly didn't want that to happen, so she took matters into her own hands. After Claire fell through the window, Irene didn't rush to check on her like everyone else, which was very telling. She was shocked due to feelings of guilt.