Intruder in the Dust (1949)

 Clarence Brown's "Intruder in the Dust"


Before the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, many Hollywood films did not address the injustices committed against the black community. One film, however, titled "Intruder in the Dust" raised many eyebrows. Its depiction of racism was something many had not seen before on screen. Sure, there were black films made specifically for black Americans. However, "Intruder in the Dust" was a film made for white audiences as well. 

The film depicts a black man jailed after being suspected of shooting a white man in the back and killing him. However, two teenage boys, the town lawyer, and an elderly lady have a hunch that this man is innocent. After a series of investigations, it is discovered that someone removed the dead man's body from his grave so that the bullet in his back couldn't be identified. After discovering this, they lay a trap for the man to come back. He does and after arresting him, the mob in front of the jailhouse disperses. 

"Intruder in the Dust" did not garnish worldwide acclaim, however, its depictions of racial injustice was something well needed at a time when not many were speaking out about it.



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