Of course, dating to 1961, you have to give this film a pass in terms of now being outdated. But, the real story here -- modern medicine and the men who practice it, both those up-to-date, and those whose time is past -- remains timely and powerful.
You have Fredric March as the paternalistic physician who hasn't quite kept up with recent trends in medicine. Fortunately, they don't do a hatchet job on his character, here. They show him as being pro-patient, though a tad outdated, and ultimately he knows that it's time to move over. A powerful and rather pleasing performance by Fredric March, and proof that it is possible to retire with dignity.
Then you have Ben Gazzara, the young doctor who, though circumstances, learns that March has his strengths, and begins to respect certain aspects of his professionalism. He learns some valuable lessons. Always a strong actor, Gazzara does not disappoint here.
The biggest surprise is Dick Clark. Another young doctor, who does surprisingly well here. Not sure why he didn't move into more acting; he's certainly capable here.
Ina Balin plays the role of a nurse with potential bone cancer. A very good performance.
Eddie Albert turns in a strong performance. Unfortunate that he decided to soon move to "Green Acres". Aline MacMahon turns in a notable performance as a female doctor.
This is a good solid movie. All the endings are not totally happy endings, but neither are they all tragic. A good balance, and a good film. Perhaps not one of for the DVD shelf, but certainly one to watch once or savor twice!
You have Fredric March as the paternalistic physician who hasn't quite kept up with recent trends in medicine. Fortunately, they don't do a hatchet job on his character, here. They show him as being pro-patient, though a tad outdated, and ultimately he knows that it's time to move over. A powerful and rather pleasing performance by Fredric March, and proof that it is possible to retire with dignity.
Then you have Ben Gazzara, the young doctor who, though circumstances, learns that March has his strengths, and begins to respect certain aspects of his professionalism. He learns some valuable lessons. Always a strong actor, Gazzara does not disappoint here.
The biggest surprise is Dick Clark. Another young doctor, who does surprisingly well here. Not sure why he didn't move into more acting; he's certainly capable here.
Ina Balin plays the role of a nurse with potential bone cancer. A very good performance.
Eddie Albert turns in a strong performance. Unfortunate that he decided to soon move to "Green Acres". Aline MacMahon turns in a notable performance as a female doctor.
This is a good solid movie. All the endings are not totally happy endings, but neither are they all tragic. A good balance, and a good film. Perhaps not one of for the DVD shelf, but certainly one to watch once or savor twice!