Movie spotlight
Semmelweis
Set in 19th century Vienna, Ignac Semmelweis, a short-tempered but passionate doctor, delivers babies and carries out autopsies on a daily basis while looking for the cause of puerperal fever, the mysterious epidemic that decimates patients in the hospital.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film chronicles the life and work of Ignaz Semmelweis, a Hungarian physician who, in the 1840s, discovered that the incidence of puerperal fever could be drastically cut by hand disinfection in obstetrical clinics. Despite his groundbreaking findings, Semmelweis faced significant resistance and skepticism from the medical establishment, leading to tragic consequences.
Critical Reception
"Semmelweis" received a mixed to positive reception, with critics generally praising its ambitious scope and the lead performance, while some found its pacing and narrative structure to be uneven. The film's dedication to historical accuracy and its portrayal of scientific struggle resonated with many.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its compelling historical narrative and the emotional weight of Semmelweis's struggle.
Some critics noted the film's deliberate pacing and lengthy runtime.
The film effectively highlights the tragedy of scientific discovery met with ignorance.
Google audience: Audience reception information for 'Semmelweis' is not widely available through Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
The film was notably screened at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in the out-of-competition section.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources