The Story of Louis Pasteur

Plot

In the 19th century, chemist Louis Pasteur (Muni) believes that diseases are caused by unseen microbes. His radical theory is dismissed by most doctors, particularly his most vocal critic, Dr Charbonnet (Fritz Leiber, Sr.). Nonetheless, Pasteur carries on, with the assistance of a small group of loyal researchers, and finds a cure for anthrax. He also campaigns to have doctors wash their hands and sterilize their instruments before operating.

Charbonnet is so certain that Pasteur is a quack that he injects himself with some of the rabies virus. When a triumphant Charbonnet shows no sign of contracting rabies, Pasteur is puzzled, until his wife suggests that the sample may have gotten weak with age. This sets him on the right path to finding a cure. When a frantic mother begs him to try his untested treatment on her son (Dickie Moore), who has been bitten by a rabid dog, Pasteur risks imprisonment and possibly the guillotine to save the child. Even Charbonnet finally concedes that he is right. In the end, Pasteur is honored for his scientific accomplishments by the very doctors who scoffed at his discoveries.

Cast

Accolades

The film is recognized by American Film Institute in these lists:

Radio adaptations

Paul Muni reprised his role in two radio play versions of the film: the November 23, 1936, episode of Lux Radio Theater and the April 13, 1946, episode of Academy Award Theater.