Magnificent Obsession

"This was the moment unashamed... when this man and this woman felt the first ecstasy of their Magnificent Obsession"

Aug 7 1954 Approved 1h 48m
Drama, Romance

Reckless playboy Bob Merrick crashes his speedboat, requiring emergency attention from the town’s only resuscitator while a local hero, Dr. Phillips, dies waiting for the life-saving device. Merrick then tries to right his wrongs with the doctor’s widow, Helen, falling in love with her in the process.

Plot

When churlish, spoiled rich man Bob Merrick foolishly wrecks his speed boat, the rescue team resuscitates him with equipment that's therefore unavailable to aid a local hero, Dr. Wayne Phillips, who dies as a result. Phillips had helped many people, and when Merrick learns Phillips' secret, to give selflessly and in secret, he tries it in a ham-handed way. The result further alienates Phillips' widow, Helen, with whom Merrick has fallen in love. Merrick's persistence causes another tragedy, and he must remake his life, including going back to medical school, in an attempt to make amends and win her love.

Written by

Lloyd C. Douglas, Robert Blees, Wells Root

Directed by

Douglas Sirk

Production Countries

United States of America

Production Companies

Universal International Pictures

Languages

English, Deutsch

Awards

Nominated for 1 Oscar. 1 win & 1 nomination total

Scores
# of Votes
8,398
Average Rating
7 out of 10
Metascore
77
Popularity
NA