Having seen The Fight for Life from 1940 recently, I have a clear sense of just how misguided a documentary about the well-intended nature of medicine can be. Van Dyke actually makes a film that's rousing and hard-edged. Following a doctor through school and into his early career, this doesn't shy away from the occasional failures in attempting to save patients. It seems a young girl will beat diphtheria, but she shockingly dies and we watch as the doctor has to inform the parents. It's something of a gut punch and is a strong lead into the last part of the film where the doctor tries to prevent further outbreaks through research and prevention. This is certainly one of the more involving '40s Documentary Feature nominees.
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