The Best of Men

Eddie Marsan stars as Dr. Ludwig Guttmann, a Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany who becomes a pioneering spinal surgeon at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in 1944, transforming the lives of paralyzed soldiers. Guttmann introduces sport into their rehabilitation, leading to a breakthrough that results in the founding of the Paralympic Games. His approach is contrasted with the traditional sedation and inactivity of the existing staff, who are gradually won over by his determination and optimism. As Guttmann's methods yield positive results, the patients begin to re-engage with the outside world, competing in hockey, basketball, and other sports.