This is a very interesting film for several reasons. Once again, it reconfirms my recent discovery of Rosiland Russell, an actress I pretty much ignored for years, but now recognize as a very fine and underrated actress.
Interestingly, Alexander Knox, one of the costars of the film, was also one of the screenplay authors.
It's also interesting to see one of my favorite character actors in a co-starring role -- Dean Jagger...and with a full head of hair!# He does very nicely here.
Alexander Knox was a very fine actor who sort of always reminds e of the "little professor", which is probably why he never received the recognition he deserves. He does very nicely here.
In terms of the drama itself, this is a classic drama revolving around one professional (in this case Nurse Kenny) who is courageous enough to ignore the traditional experts and follow a new path...and find success...in this case in treating children with polio. There are aspects of it which remind me a bit about the film about "Stanleyk And Livingstone" starring Spencer Tracy...of course dealing with a different topic. One of the best scenes in the film is the ultimate confrontation between Nurse Kenny and Dr. Brack.
Another thing that I give this film credit for is that the characters, particularly Russell and Knox, age well throughout the film.
There are a number of fine supporting actors here, some of whom you will recognize.
My only complaint about this film I have is that it just doesn't feel like Australia. Now I've never been to Australia, but to be honest, except for a few accents, this seems like it's taking place in America.
As I was watching this film it occurred to me that if this same story was taking place today, most of us would reject Sister Kenny and her treatment. It gives one pause.
This is one of those films that was important (including because Rosiland Russell was nominated for an Academy Award for it), but not successful at the box office. I give it a very strong "7"; recommended.
Interestingly, Alexander Knox, one of the costars of the film, was also one of the screenplay authors.
It's also interesting to see one of my favorite character actors in a co-starring role -- Dean Jagger...and with a full head of hair!# He does very nicely here.
Alexander Knox was a very fine actor who sort of always reminds e of the "little professor", which is probably why he never received the recognition he deserves. He does very nicely here.
In terms of the drama itself, this is a classic drama revolving around one professional (in this case Nurse Kenny) who is courageous enough to ignore the traditional experts and follow a new path...and find success...in this case in treating children with polio. There are aspects of it which remind me a bit about the film about "Stanleyk And Livingstone" starring Spencer Tracy...of course dealing with a different topic. One of the best scenes in the film is the ultimate confrontation between Nurse Kenny and Dr. Brack.
Another thing that I give this film credit for is that the characters, particularly Russell and Knox, age well throughout the film.
There are a number of fine supporting actors here, some of whom you will recognize.
My only complaint about this film I have is that it just doesn't feel like Australia. Now I've never been to Australia, but to be honest, except for a few accents, this seems like it's taking place in America.
As I was watching this film it occurred to me that if this same story was taking place today, most of us would reject Sister Kenny and her treatment. It gives one pause.
This is one of those films that was important (including because Rosiland Russell was nominated for an Academy Award for it), but not successful at the box office. I give it a very strong "7"; recommended.