Un homme qui se retrouve

Young New York City surgeon, and amateur pilot, John Beal (as James Stanton) rubs the older doctors at "General Hospital" the wrong way. Most of all, they consider his interest in flying an inappropriate hobby. After Mr. Beal gives the wife of another doctor a lift in his plane, it crashes; and, the young woman dies. The accident becomes a national scandal, with the unwed Beal becoming romantically linked with his married passenger. After being put on probation, Beal gives up his privileged life, hitchhikes to California, and becomes a hobo. He is recognized by pilot friend Philip Huston (as Dick Miller), who helps Beal get back up on his feet. Then, Mr. Huston, and pretty blonde nurse Joan Fontaine (as Doris King) help Beal turn his life around.

Ms. Fontaine receives a special introduction in this, her first co-starring role. She is not only very obviously like her famous sister, but also very engaging. Fontaine's performances would grow more individual and adept, with increasingly better material. Although never growing into stars of Fontaine's stature, Beal and Huston are also quite good. It's nice to see the expressive Beal, who presided over the witchcraft trial of Quentin Collins on "Dark Shadows", as a leading man. And, Huston essays a very convincing "drunk" scene.

***** The Man Who Found Himself (1937) Lew Landers ~ John Beal, Joan Fontaine, Philip Huston