The Girl in White (1952)

The Girl in White concerns itself with such a potentially interesting story -- the real-life struggles of a female doctor to break into the male-dominated (and hostile) medical world -- that it's surprising it is not better known and has not been remade. Part of the reason for its obscurity is that it's simply not as good a film as the subject demands. It's good, mind you -- but it could (and should) have been a much better film. As is too often the case, the powers-that-be in Hollywood decided that the original source material needed to be made more conventional. The result is a story that works, but that is lacking in the originality and imagination that would have moved Girl to the next level. It's also true that June Allyson, in the crucial leading role, is not ideal casting. Allyson tries hard and her performance has many good moments; but the effort always shows. Her work is never less than professional and always does what is required, but it's a bit too workmanlike when what is needed is something inspirational. She doesn't galvanize the film, and without the force behind it, Girl doesn't soar the way it should. The supporting cast is quite good, with Arthur Kennedy turning in a very admirable performance and Mildred Dunnock turning in a superlative one. John Sturges' direction is always solid, and often demonstrates flair. The Girl in White is an engrossing story and well worth watching, even if one wishes it had risen to slightly greater heights. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide