The Outsider (1939 film)
| Industry | Film production |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | London , United Kingdom |
| Products | Films |
The Outsider is a British drama motion picture from 1939, directed by Paul L. Stein and featuring performances by George Sanders, Mary Maguire, and Barbara Blair. The narrative centers on an osteopath who successfully treats a patient and subsequently falls in love with her. This film serves as a remake of the 1931 production The Outsider, itself adapted from Dorothy Brandon's 1923 stage play bearing the same title. Produced by Associated British Picture Corporation, the movie was filmed at Elstree Studios with set designs crafted by art director Cedric Dawe.
Plot
Anton Ragatzy, an osteopath whose unconventional methods spark controversy, employs a device of his own creation to address disabilities. His approach is met with resistance from a surgical board intent on prohibiting his practice. To validate his treatment, Ragatzy selects Lalage "Lally" Sturdee, the daughter of one of the surgeons, Joseph Sturdee, as his patient. Lally, disabled from birth, is a composer deeply fond of her friend Basil.
At first, Lally declines the therapy but reconsiders after observing her friends engaging in activities she cannot participate in. Ragatzy offers her residence for a year during the treatment period, using her affection for Basil as encouragement. Meanwhile, Basil pursues another woman named Wendy, although he continues to visit Lally out of duty. Ragatzy harbors romantic feelings toward Lally but keeps them restrained.
As the treatment nears completion, Ragatzy organizes a demonstration for the surgeons to witness Lally's initial steps. Basil promises Wendy he will marry her if Lally manages to walk; if not, he agrees to remain with Lally. Despite their efforts, Lally finds it difficult to walk steadily. Facing potential professional repercussions and criticism from both Lally and her father, Ragatzy becomes frustrated. In a pivotal scene, Lally defends Ragatzy and walks toward him, bringing together both him and her father as the story concludes.
Main cast
- George Sanders as Anton Ragatzy
- Mary Maguire as Lalage Sturdee
- Barbara Blair as Wendy
- Peter Murray-Hill as Basil Owen
- Frederick Leister as Joseph Sturdee
- Walter Hudd as Dr. Helmore
- Kathleen Harrison as Mrs. Coates
- Kynaston Reeves as Sir Montague Tollemach
- Edmund Breon as Dr. Ladd
- Ralph Truman as Sir Nathan Israel
References