"Gentleman's Agreement" is a drama that explores prejudice against Jews. Not the kind of prejudice that is demonstrated in a fiery, defamatory speech, but the quiet kind, done to exclude Jews from a job, a home, or a social occasion. The film also infers that it is not enough merely to not discriminate personally, but that discrimination when found must be confronted, or it will continue.

"Gentleman's Agreement" accomplishes these
ambitious goals while being compelling rather
than pedantic. Gregory Peck is the lead, a
widower writer with a young son who has just
arrived in New York. He has a new job at a
magazine but has a difficult assignment: he must
write an article about antisemitism from an
emotional viewpoint.

Peck's character, who is a Christian, decides to
tell his co-workers and acquaintances that he is
a Jew for the duration of the story. He soon
encounters prejudice, and always confronts it
directly, even when it comes from his fiancee
(Dorothy McGuire). People are quick to tell him
that they are not prejudiced, but their phrases
and actions say otherwise.

Peck is perfectly cast for the role. His
character radiates integrity and deserved
self-righteousness, giving him the moral
authority to identify (and tell off) others when
they show prejudice. The script is also kind
enough to always give him the last word. Peck
would later have a similar (and even more famous)
role in "To Kill a Mockingbird".

I don't like McGuire's character. She is delicate
and affected, and can't handle stress or
confrontation. Peck must choose between her and
brassy Celeste Holm. I won't reveal his decision,
but you can guess whose side I am on. I am not
criticizing McGuire's performance though, as she
plays the character well.

Time has made some of the film's references
obscure. Bilbo and Gerald L. K. Smith were
apparently nationally-known at the time as
hate-mongers against Jews. While the romance in
"Gentlemen's Agreement" is unconvincing, Peck's
battle against prejudice remains compelling and
makes for good drama. (83/100)



Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Fit for Friday evening