Arrowsmith (film)

Arrowsmith is a 1931 American pre-Code drama film directed by John Ford and starring Ronald Colman, Helen Hayes, and Richard Bennett. It is based on the 1925 novel of the same name by Sinclair Lewis.

The film tells the story of Martin Arrowsmith (Colman), a restless and ambitious young doctor whose idealism is constantly challenged by the realities of medical practice and the temptations of wealth and power. He struggles with the conflict between his scientific aspirations and the commercial pressures of his career. He marries Leora Tozer (Hayes), a supportive and loving woman who grounds him.

Arrowsmith dedicates himself to scientific research, initially working at a prestigious institute. He later travels to a Caribbean island to combat a deadly plague, where he discovers a promising new treatment. However, ethical dilemmas arise when he faces pressure to withhold the treatment from certain populations for experimental purposes.

The film explores themes of scientific integrity, the corrupting influence of money, the conflict between idealism and pragmatism, and the importance of personal relationships. Despite its critical acclaim, Arrowsmith was not a box office success upon its initial release. It received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, but did not win any.