The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel

The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel is the heart-rending story of a woman who leaves the world of privilege to embark on an altruistic medical path to aid those who are scarcely reached by modern medicine. This movie was shot in 1979 and stars Lindsay Wagner as the eponymous Dr. Meg Laurel and Jane Wyman as the traditional, medicine woman Granny Arrowroot.

Set in the early 20th century, the storyline revolves around the life of Dr. Meg Laurel, who integrates her medical practices with traditional medicine amidst the coal-mining communities in the Appalachian Mountains. Harvard educated and high society refined- Meg Laurel, boasts an impressive resume from an early age. However, after losing employees close to her due to medical negligence, she blames modern medicine and the disconnect it has created between humanity and nature. This is when she takes it upon herself to bridge this gap and decides to provide medical assistance to the ailing community in the Appalachian mountains- returning to her roots where she was born and brought up.

However, this journey back to her roots is not as easy as she thinks. She faces an enormous challenge from the old and stubborn ‘medicine woman’ Granny Arrowroot, astoundingly portrayed by the Academy Award-winning actress, Jane Wyman. Granny is viewed as the primary healing authority in the community for generations. She hesitates to welcome the city doctor who brings unfamiliar and new concepts of medicine into their traditions, creating a perfect premise for tension and subsequent resolution.

One of the significant aspects of this film is the contrast between traditional and modern health practices. Dr. Meg Laurel represents the modern, scientifically-backed practices while Granny Arrowroot embodies the classical, indigenous world of natural remedies, herbs, and homespun health wisdom. Thickening the plot is the influence of big-city companies exploiting the Appalachian miners, causing not only their physical but also their social and economic health to be in a vulnerable state.

A captivating narrative delivered by director Guy Green, “The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel” dives deep into fundamental questions about the nature of health care and the clash between traditional and ‘modern’. The film brilliantly depicts how these two distinct worlds collide, and in the end, find a way to navigate together towards better health practices.

Lindsay Wagner delivers a striking performance as Dr. Meg Laurel, with her vulnerability, determination, and ambitious spirit being shown at great lengths. On the other hand, Jane Wyman, as Granny Arrowroot, inflicts a strong presence with her traditional ways and staunch practices that have helped sustain the community through many challenges. The nuanced performance of the entire cast deeply embraces the plot’s intricacies and takes viewers to a remote era of rural America, where survival relies heavily on traditional wisdom in line with the need for change.

“The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel” is not just a story about health practices but also a tale of the human spirit and determination, which resonates with every viewer. The film examines the dichotomy between modern and traditional ways, highlighting that one does not necessarily invalidate the other. It's an homage to the power of empathy, understanding, and baptism under adversity, making an impact much beyond its 2-hour duration.

The profound message that the film delivers is that of unity and co-existence. In a world that is built on the tension between old and new, it underlines the importance of recognizing the value in both traditional and modern practices and learning from the best of both worlds, showcasing how evolution can coexist with tradition.

The film, with its jaw-dropping landscapes, brilliant performances, and provocative narrative, allows the audience to leave with a unique insight that straddles time, place, and culture. The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel is undoubtedly a movie that enables young and old viewers alike to contemplate pressing issues that exhibit significance even in today's health care scenario- a testament to the timeless nature of the tale it tells.