Yellow Jack
Yellow Jack

Yellow Jack

1938Movie83 minEnglish

A fairly accurate historical account of Walter Reed's search for the cause of "Yellow Jack" or Yellow Fever and those who risked their lives in the pursuit.

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IMDb6.4/10
Director: Richard ThorpeGenres: Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

In 1897 Cuba, Major Walter Reed and his U.S. Army commission are tasked with investigating the cause of yellow fever, which is decimating American troops during the Spanish-American War. Facing skepticism and resistance, they embark on a dangerous series of experiments, including testing theories that mosquitoes are the carriers, putting their own lives on the line to uncover the truth and save countless soldiers.

Critical Reception

Yellow Jack was met with mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its historical accuracy and the performances of its cast, particularly Robert Montgomery. While some found the pacing occasionally slow, the film was generally commended for its serious treatment of a significant medical and historical event.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its historical significance and educational value.
  • Appreciated the earnest performances, especially from the lead.
  • Some found the dramatic elements less compelling than the scientific pursuit.

Google audience: Information not available for Google user reviews for this older film.

Fun Fact

The film was based on the play of the same name by Sidney Howard and Paul Green, which itself was inspired by the real-life work of Major Walter Reed and his team in determining the cause of yellow fever.

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