Watch The Story of Louis Pasteur

The Story of Louis Pasteur is a biographical drama film from 1936 that portrays the life and scientific achievements of the famous French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur. The film stars Paul Muni as Pasteur, Josephine Hutchinson as his wife Marie, and Anita Louise as his daughter Annette. The movie begins with Pasteur returning to France in the mid-19th century after working as a chemist in various European countries. He is already famous for his groundbreaking work on fermentation and the discovery of a process for heating liquids which later became known as pasteurization. However, he is also met with suspicion and skepticism by some members of the French scientific establishment, who see him as a foreigner and a maverick.

Despite this, Pasteur continues his research, and soon he is called upon to help solve a major crisis in the French wine industry. A mysterious disease called "the silkworm disease" is affecting the grape vines and causing the wine to turn sour. Pasteur accepts the challenge, and through a series of experiments, he discovers that the cause of the disease is a microorganism called Bacillus aceti. He also develops a method for preventing the spread of the disease, which involves heating the wine to a specific temperature for a certain period of time. This method becomes known as pasteurization, and it revolutionizes the wine industry.

As Pasteur's reputation grows, he is approached by a young boy suffering from rabies, a deadly disease that was then considered incurable. Pasteur decides to try an experimental treatment, injecting the boy with a weakened form of the virus. The treatment is successful, and the boy recovers fully. This leads Pasteur to develop a vaccine for rabies, which saves countless lives in France and around the world.

Throughout the film, Pasteur faces opposition and hostility from many quarters, including some members of the government, the church, and the medical establishment. However, he persists in his research and in his belief that science can improve and save lives. He also enjoys the support and love of his wife and family, as well as the admiration of many of his colleagues.

The Story of Louis Pasteur is a compelling and inspiring portrayal of one of the greatest scientists in history. Paul Muni gives a powerful and nuanced performance as Pasteur, conveying both his brilliance and his humanity. The film also features impressive sets and costumes that evoke the atmosphere of mid-19th-century France.

Overall, The Story of Louis Pasteur is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of science and the life of one of its most influential figures. It celebrates the power of knowledge, perseverance, and human ingenuity, and it reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we can make great strides towards a better future.

The Story of Louis Pasteur is a 1936 drama with a runtime of 85 hours. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.