Magnificent Obsession (1935) Irene Dunne, Robert Taylor, Ralph Morgan

Director: John M. Stahl Renowned surgeon Dr. Wayne Hudson, head of private Brightwood Hospital, dies is a swimming accident, as the one and only iron lung from the hospital that could have saved him was instead used on wealthy, privileged and entitled ne'er-do-well Bobby Merrick, whose drunken boating accident was just the latest incident in a life of reckless and careless behavior. Dr. Hudson is survived by his young, supportive bride Helen Hudson, and his adult daughter Joyce Hudson, who, not knowing Merrick except by reputation, don't think they could ever forgive him. Following Dr. Hudson's death, Helen learns that he secretly embarked on a philosophy - his magnificent obsession - of helping others without any material return for a better world, which led to him spending all his money on others. When Helen and Bobby do meet, without each knowing who the other is, there is an immediate attraction between the two. Each does eventually learn the identity of the other, at which time Helen retreats, but doesn't stop Bobby from falling in love with her. It isn't until Helen's life further fundamentally changed from something indirectly caused by him that Bobby begins his own journey with this magnificent obsession, at the possible risk of losing Helen altogether.