The Sun Shines Bright (1953)

SYNOPSIS

Reportedly, this turn-of-the-century story of a common-sense jurist (Winninger) in rural Kentucky was director Ford's favorite film. In fact, he was so fond of the Irvin S. Cobb stories that he filmed them twice, first as Judge Priest in 1934 with Will Rogers. This time, Winninger runs for reelection against a Yankee carpetbagger, while defending a black youth from a lynching, and supporting a prostitute to keep her off the streets. This often charming piece of Americana is unfortunately stained by a performance by black comedian Stepin Fetchit that will today prompt more winces than the intended laughs.

(Source: available at Amazon AMC Classic Movie Companion).