Passing

          Written and directed by Rebecca Hall, this new Netflix drama is a fascinating period piece about two light skinned black women, who meet after years apart. Tessa Thompson is Irene, married to a prominent black doctor played by Andre Holland and Ruth Negga is Claire, "passing" for white, and married to a wealthy businessman played by Alexander Skarsgard.

          As the two women reconnect, it becomes obvious that Claire has missed her African-American roots and becomes increasingly involved with Irene, her family and friends. Irene, on the other hand, begins to resent Irene's intrusion into her life but is too timid and polite to turn her away.

         Ms. Thompson and Ms. Negga are both excellent. The film also co-stars Bill Camp and Gbenga Akinnagbe. The period costumes and set designs are exquisite.  It is beautifully shot in black and white but directed with too light a touch by Ms. Hall. While it attempts to explore many issues, it never really digs below the surface and instead just focuses on the two women and the growing divide between their morals and personalities, culminating in a most unexpected way.