The principal thing working against this true life drama is its rather morbid subject matter. But if you can overcome initial aversion to the shocking conditions of leprosy on display, it is not without appeal. Predicably, writer-director Steven Gethers, includes a romantic sub-plot, involving a cynical white leper and a native girl without the disease, but the film's main thrust is on the dedicated work of the Roman Catholic priest of the title. A brunette Ken Howard at first bullies his way into the victims' lives, but gradually wins them - and us - over with his plans for improving their meagre lot. Howard's excellent ageing make-up, by artist John Inzerella, deserves special mention, as does Wilfrid Hyde White as Howard's admiring but exasperated bishop.

©ipc tx. Film content from TVTimes