Life for Ruth (1962)

by Ted Davis

Also Known As: Walk in the Shadow

Directed by: Basil Dearden

Cat Out of the Bag Alert! This review contains spoilers for this film!

Synopsis: Because of his deeply held religious convictions, John Paul Harris (Michael Craig) refuses to allow a blood transfusion which would save the life of his beloved daughter Ruth (Lynn Taylor). After her inevitable death, Dr. James Brown (Patrick McGoohan), the zealous attending physician, instigates a charge of manslaughter against Harris. At the outcome of the trial, Harris realizes a truth which causes great pain, but with the guidance of Dr. Harris, he also recognizes the possibility of redemption.

Cat Burglar (Scene Stealer): In response to the call of her mother Pat Harris (Janet Munro), Ruth snags her large and docile tuxedo cat from the beach and trots inside the house.

Life for Ruth - large tuxedo cat
Life for Ruth - Ruth Lynn Taylor holding large tuxedo cat
Life for Ruth - Ruth Lynn Taylor carrying large tuxedo cat
Life for Ruth - Ruth Lynn Taylor picking up and carrying large tuxedo cat animated gif

As she makes her way into the home, Ruth’s friend Teddy (Freddy Ramsey) gently teases her about the pet.

Life for Ruth - Ruth Lynn Taylor carrying large tuxedo cat with Teddy Freddy Ramsey
Life for Ruth - Ruth Lynn Taylor running into house holding large tuxedo cat

Final Mewsings: Cats ignore tragic and painful moral quandaries.

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