Doctor in Distress
Doctor in Distress

Movie spotlight

Doctor in Distress

1963
Movie
102 min
English

"Doctor in Distress" is the fifth of the seven films in the "Doctor" series, and focuses on Sir Lancelot Spratt, Simon Sparrow's old teacher and sometimes nemesis. When the eternal bachelor Sir Lancelot injures his back and falls in love with his physiotherapist Iris Marchant, he becomes very distressed and turns to Simon for help. Simon, who now is a senior doctor at fictional Hampden Cross Hospital and hopelessly in love with aspiring actress Delia, sends him to a nature cure clinic in a vain attempt to help him lose weight, but Sir Lancelot can't get Iris off his mind and has her followed, first by a private investigator and eventually by himself. When he finally proposes, she rejects him and marries an old army major, which distresses Sir Lancelot even more.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Ralph ThomasGenres: Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

Simon Sparrow is on holiday in the West Indies, where he meets and falls for the beautiful Delia. Meanwhile, his old acquaintance, Dr. Branko, is in financial trouble and attempts to use Simon's romantic involvement to his advantage. Simon must navigate his budding romance and the schemes of his acquaintance to find happiness.

Critical Reception

Doctor in Distress received a mixed to positive reception from critics and audiences. It was seen as a lighthearted and enjoyable entry in the 'Doctor' film series, appreciated for its comedic elements and the performance of Dirk Bogarde. Some found it formulaic, but it generally succeeded as a breezy romantic comedy.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lighthearted humor and charming performances.

  • A pleasant, if somewhat predictable, romantic comedy.

  • Dirk Bogarde's enduring appeal is a significant draw.

Google audience: Audience reviews for Doctor in Distress are not readily available through Google. However, general sentiment from similar films in the series suggests an appreciation for nostalgic comedies and familiar comedic actors.

Fun Fact

The film is part of the long-running 'Doctor' film series, a popular British comedy franchise that began in 1954 with 'Doctor in the House'.

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