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Directed by Douglas Sirk |
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| Rock Hudson |
Barbara Rush |
| Jane Wyman |
Agnes Morehead |
| Otto Kruger |
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| Self-centered millionaire re-examines his life and understands the meaning of love, for the first time. |
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| One-word View: Significant |
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| Bob Merrick (Rock), a very spoiled, selfish, playboy millionaire is indirectly responsible for the death of Dr. Wayne Phillips, a well-respected physician. Later, Dr. Phillips' wife, Helen (Jane), is blinded in an accident (also Bob's fault) and this serves as the catalyst for Bob exploring the notion of serving a higher power.
Bob is guided on this path of redemption by Rudolph (Otto) who just happens to have been Dr. Phillips' best friend.
That's really the power of forgiveness.
I would venture to guess that this is one of Rock and Jane’s lesser-known films and I do not know if it fared well in the 1950s. Still, this is an incredibly powerful, spiritual story of faith and love. Do not worry for it is not a religious movie, per se. There is no mention of God or Jehovah or Allah, or whatever. It just focuses on the existence of something greater than ourselves, something that provides strength and guidance to us daily if we are open to it. So, it’s whatever “being” that you choose to embrace. The embracing part is what is most important according to this film. Then you use this power to help others. It does not necessarily mean money, as not all of us have that to offer. Just be open and cognizant of those around you and reach out. By giving, one receives.
It sounds a little corny, maybe even soap opera-like, yet, I am inspired each time I watch Magnificent Obsession, which is loosely based on Lloyd C. Douglas' novel of the same name. Also, Jane Wyman earned a Best Actress Academy Award Nomination.
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