The Doctor's Dilemma (1985) Review in 2025
A British comedy-drama film based on a play by George Bernard Shaw, exploring the complexities of medical ethics and personal relationships.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes and complex subject matter.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is worth watching for its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, but it may not be to everyone's taste due to its complex subject matter and slow pacing.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film revolves around Dr. Colley, a brilliant but unscrupulous doctor who is faced with a moral dilemma when he is asked to choose between two patients, one of whom is a young mother with a child, and the other is a wealthy patron who has been instrumental in his career advancement.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, but it can be slow-paced at times. The film raises important questions about medical ethics and personal relationships, but it may not be to everyone's taste.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Albert Finney and Diana Rigg are particularly impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the story. However, some characters feel underutilized, and the film could benefit from more character development.
direction7.50/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the story and its themes. However, the pacing can be uneven at times, and some scenes feel overly long.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a strong focus on lighting and composition. The film's use of color and camera angles adds to the overall mood and atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Thought-provoking themes, strong performances, excellent cinematography
Cons
Slow pacing, complex subject matter, some characters feel underutilized
Notable Quotes
"'The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.'"
