Watch Dr. Kildare's Strange Case

Dr. Kildare's Strange Case from 1940 is a classic medical drama that brings back the beloved character of Dr. Kildare, who was introduced to audiences just a year earlier. The titular character, played by Lew Ayres, is a young, idealistic doctor who is dedicated to healing and helping his patients. In this installment of the series, Dr. Kildare finds himself in the middle of a complex medical mystery that will test his skills as a physician and his resolve as a person.

The movie begins with Dr. Kildare being introduced to a new patient, Mr. 'Lockjaw' Davis, played by Lionel Barrymore. Mr. Davis is a cantankerous and difficult man, but Dr. Kildare is determined to help him overcome his illness. As he delves deeper into Mr. Davis' case, Dr. Kildare discovers that he has a rare disease that requires immediate surgery to cure.

However, before the surgery can take place, Mr. Davis is found dead in his hospital room. It's up to Dr. Kildare and his mentor, Dr. Gillespie (played by Barrymore), to figure out what happened and to clear Dr. Kildare's name, as he's suspected of foul play.

As they investigate the case, Dr. Kildare and Dr. Gillespie uncover a web of intrigue and deception that involves medical malpractice, unscrupulous businessmen, and even a love triangle. Along the way, Dr. Kildare also becomes involved with Nurse Mary Lamont, played by Laraine Day, who helps him in his quest for the truth.

One of the strengths of Dr. Kildare's Strange Case is the depth of the characters. Dr. Kildare is not just a skilled doctor, but he's also a compassionate human being who cares deeply about his patients. He is willing to take risks and fight against the system to help those who need it. His mentor, Dr. Gillespie, is a crusty old doctor who has seen it all, but he still has a heart, and he provides much-needed guidance and support to Dr. Kildare.

The movie also deals with some weighty issues, including medical ethics and the responsibility of doctors to their patients. Dr. Kildare is torn between his obligation to follow the rules of his profession and his desire to do what's best for his patient. His struggles in this area make him a relatable and sympathetic character, and they provide the movie with some real emotional heft.

Another standout aspect of Dr. Kildare's Strange Case is the strong performances from the cast. Lew Ayres is excellent as Dr. Kildare, imbuing the character with a sense of determination and humanity. Lionel Barrymore is also great as Dr. Gillespie, playing the role with a gruffness that belies his caring nature. Laraine Day is an appealing presence as Nurse Lamont, bringing intelligence and warmth to the part.

The movie is also well-directed by Harold S. Bucquet, who keeps the pace moving briskly and creates a palpable sense of tension and suspense throughout. The medical scenes are expertly done, with the audience getting a real sense of what it's like to be a doctor in a high-pressure situation.

In conclusion, Dr. Kildare's Strange Case is a classic medical drama that still holds up today. It has strong characters, a compelling story, and some standout performances, all of which make it a must-see for fans of the genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer to Dr. Kildare, this movie is sure to entertain and engage you.

Dr. Kildare's Strange Case is a 1940 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.