Watch Meet Dr. Christian

Meet Dr. Christian is a heartwarming drama film released in 1939, directed by Bernard Vorhaus, and starring Jean Hersholt as Dr. Paul Christian, a beloved physician in the small town of River's End. The movie tells the story of his relationship with Judy Price (Dorothy Lovett), a young nurse who arrives in town to work at his practice.

At the beginning of the film, we see Dr. Christian as a respected figure in River's End, where he has been practicing medicine for many years. He is loved by his patients for his kind bedside manner and his ability to solve their health problems. When Judy arrives in town, he welcomes her with open arms and takes her under his wing, teaching her the ways of the town and introducing her to his patients.

Judy, on the other hand, is initially hesitant to work with Dr. Christian, harboring a deep fear of blood and needles. However, Dr. Christian patiently mentors her and trains her in the ways of medicine, building a bond between them that grows stronger over time.

As the film progresses, we see Dr. Christian's relationship with Judy tested when they encounter a range of cases that push them to their limits. They are faced with tough decisions, such as when to use an experimental treatment on a gravely ill patient, and when to let nature take its course. Through it all, Dr. Christian remains a pillar of strength for Judy, providing guidance and support as she grows into her new role as a nurse.

Alongside these medical challenges, Meet Dr. Christian also explores the personal lives of the characters. We see Dr. Christian's relationship with his daughter, played by Judy's real-life sister Joan Leslie, who is secretly struggling with a romantic entanglement. Moreover, the movie touches upon the themes of small-town life, such as gossip, feuds, and the challenges of staying true to oneself in a community that often judges one's every action.

The cinematography of Meet Dr. Christian is beautifully crafted, with sweeping shots of the town and close-ups that capture the emotive performances of the actors. The pacing is also well-balanced, with a mix of dramatic scenes and moments of levity that keep the movie engaging throughout.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Meet Dr. Christian is the incredible performance by Jean Hersholt. Hersholt, who was well known for his humanitarian work, brings a level of authenticity to the role that makes Dr. Christian feel like a real person rather than a caricature. His portrayal of a dedicated and caring physician is both heartwarming and uplifting, making it easy to see why his character is so beloved by the townsfolk.

Overall, Meet Dr. Christian is a charming film that captures the essence of small-town life while also exploring important themes such as loyalty, friendship, and the importance of community. With an outstanding cast and a heartfelt story, it is no wonder that the movie endures as a classic of the era.

Meet Dr. Christian is a 2006 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.