A Raisin in the Sun is a film based on the acclaimed play of the same name, written by Lorraine Hansberry. The film begins with The Youngers, Walter Lee, Ruth, Buneatha, Travis and Lena, living in a small apartment together. The death of Lena's husband, the family patriarch, has provided the family a financial windfall in the form of a life insurance settlement. Walter Lee sees the money as an opportunity to invest, while mother Lena wishes to buy a family home. Lena puts her trust in Walter Lee to make the right decision, as the choices he makes will shape the future of the Younger family for generations.

For her role as Ruth Younger in A Raisin in the Sun, Ruby Dee won The National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1961.National Board of Review: Awards for 1961Sidney Poitier and Claudia McNeil were nominated that year at the Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor and Actress in A Leading Role—Drama, but did not win.The Golden Globes: 1961 Awards Winners