Let My People Live

Let My People Live 1939

1

Aimed at African Americans and shot at Tuskegee University, this film instructs viewers in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis by focusing on a pair of sympathetic siblings, George and Mary, whose lives are altered by the disease. Starring Rex Ingram as Dr. Gordon, the film suggests that organized religion is an important defensive location in this particular community, and warns of the dangers of the previous generation’s superstitions and its fear of medicine. The Health Department prominently featured the film at the 1939 World’s Fair. Directed by Edgar Ulmer.

1939

Goodbye, Mr. Germ

Goodbye, Mr. Germ 1940

3.00

A doctor explains to his children the dangers of tuberculosis, what it is and how to prevent against contracting it.

1940

Cloud in the Sky

Cloud in the Sky 1940

1

Produced in both English and Spanish, the film focuses on the Lopez family, now motherless because of tuberculosis. When Consuelo, the daughter of the family, begins to manifest symptoms, she prays fervently, though a “wise padre,” as the credits would have this character, advises her to seek medical attention.

1940

They Do Come Back

They Do Come Back 1940

1

Young man of "Everytown" has an oral hemorrhage which subsequent examination and tests show was caused by tuberculosis. He goes to sanitarium for treatment and extensive bed rest. Epidemiological investigation reveals source of infection was lip contact with his fiancée. The importance of occupational therapy and aptitude tests is demonstrated during the patient's recovery and rehabilitation. Scenes include: sputum and blood samples, enlarged tubercle bacilli, tuberculin test, X-ray, pneumothorax surgery, and patient drafting in occupational therapy.

1940