Based on a 1937 novel by A. J. Cronin, which was widely seen as a call for the creation of a national health service in the UK, Hollywood director Vidor gathered a stellar cast to present the story of a doctor in the Welsh Valleys who confronted with the illness of the miners he treats decides something must be done to help them. At the centre of the film is the tension between the needs of the workers and the rewards offered by toeing the line of the medical establishment.
Screening from a 35mm print.