Watch Dr. Kildare's Victory

Dr. Kildare's Victory is a drama film directed by W.S. Van Dyke and released in 1942. It is the ninth movie in the Dr. Kildare series of films, which was based on the popular radio series of the same name. The movie stars Lew Ayres as young Dr. James Kildare, Lionel Barrymore as his mentor, Dr. Leonard Gillespie, and Ann Ayars as the female lead.

Set in a suburban hospital during World War II, the movie follows Dr. Kildare as he struggles to save a patient's life while grappling with his own romantic feelings toward a beautiful nurse. The patient, Private Marion Bates (played by Robert Sterling), has been injured in combat and is suffering from a rare form of meningitis. Dr. Kildare consults with several specialists and takes a risky course of treatment that puts his career in jeopardy. Throughout the movie, he is aided by his loyal friend and mentor, Dr. Gillespie, who provides guidance and advice.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kildare's love interest, nurse Mary Lamont (played by Ann Ayars), is caught in a love triangle with Kildare and another doctor, Dr. John Adams (played by Shepperd Strudwick). When Dr. Kildare must leave to attend a medical conference in New York City, Nurse Lamont agrees to accompany him. During their time together, Dr. Kildare confesses his feelings for her, but she remains conflicted. As they return to the hospital, they encounter a horrific traffic accident and must put their medical skills to the test.

The climax of the movie centers on Private Bates, who takes a turn for the worse and lapses into a coma. Dr. Gillespie and Dr. Kildare are forced to make a life-or-death decision, which leads to a dramatic and emotionally satisfying conclusion.

Overall, Dr. Kildare's Victory is a well-acted and engaging drama that captures the tension and uncertainty of wartime medicine. Lew Ayres brings depth and nuance to his role as Dr. Kildare, while Lionel Barrymore provides a sturdy anchor as Dr. Gillespie. The romance subplot between Ann Ayars and Ayres is handled with sensitivity and tact, never interfering with the main story. The film's depiction of medicine in the 1940s is fascinating and serves as a reminder of how far medical science has come. Fans of classic movies and medical dramas will enjoy this installment in the Dr. Kildare series.

In conclusion, Dr. Kildare's Victory is a gripping medical drama that offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of wartime medicine. With a stellar cast, a compelling storyline, and a satisfying conclusion, it is a worthy addition to the Dr. Kildare series and a must-see for fans of classic cinema.

Dr. Kildare's Victory is a 1941 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.