The Country Doctor (1936 film)

The Country Doctor is a 1936 American drama film directed by Henry King. It stars Jean Hersholt as Dr. John Luke, a dedicated small-town physician in a rural setting, loosely based on the life of the Dionne quintuplets' birth physician, Dr. Allan Roy Dafoe. The film portrays the challenges and rewards of practicing medicine in a remote area, emphasizing the doctor's commitment to his patients and community despite personal sacrifices.

The plot revolves around Dr. Luke's tireless efforts to care for the residents of Callander, Ontario (though the film was set in Canada, it was shot in the United States). A significant portion of the narrative concerns the birth of quintuplets to the Hill family, their subsequent care, and the attention they bring to the small town. The film also explores themes of family, community, and the ethical considerations faced by medical professionals.

The Country Doctor was a popular and critical success, leading to a series of films featuring Jean Hersholt as Dr. Christian, though those films were not directly related to the story or characters introduced in this initial film. The movie is notable for its sympathetic portrayal of rural life and the dedication of doctors who serve underserved communities. It is considered a classic of its genre.