The New Girl

"The New Girl" is a short film sponsored by the US government. It's about the integration of workplaces necessitated for companies working on government contracts. In other words, if they want to continue working for the government, integration of the workplace was a must. I can only assume that the short was shown at various companies around the States in order to stimulate discussions and prepare them for such changes. Interestingly, a few Hollywood stars are in this one...ones who would go on to stardom such as Ed Asner and Gail Fisher.

The story is set at an unnamed company. The top brass at the company are in favor of this new policy of integration but there are some resistant bigots in various jobs who hate the notion of allowing 'them' to come to work there. The story is unflinching and difficult at times to watch, but it also has some lovely performances...such as when the new girl's mother tells her what it was like for her when she was younger. Very touching indeed. Overall,, a very effective little film...and, if you want to see it, it's posted to YouTube.

This government-produced short subject does a very effective job of combatting discrimination in the workplace, as the title character is the first Black woman hired by a private firm, in order to comply with government regulations regarding equal opportunity employment (re: companies with government contracts).

Gail Fisher, a memorable performer in her subsequent co-starring role on TV's "Mannix" series, brings subtlety to the central role, and talented character actors like Ed Asner and Ford Rainey are foreceful among the firm's management. Dialog is sharp, and the underlying issue of persistent racism is presented forcefully.

Surprise in the end credits is that Richard Nixon (as vice president) was in charge of this inforemational film series.