The White Disease Poster

The White Disease 1937

★ 6.714 votes105 min📅 1937-12-21

In 1937, Czechoslovakia stands at a crossroads between arrogance and devastation. As nationalist rhetoric fuels military ambitions, a sinister epidemic called morbus Tshengi—nicknamed the "white disease"—spreads through the population, causing rapid deterioration and despair. Dr.

Director: Hugo Haas

Cast

Hugo Haas
Hugo Haas
Dr. Galén
Zdeněk Štěpánek
Zdeněk Štěpánek
The Marshal
Bedřich Karen
Bedřich Karen
Prof. Sigelius
Václav Vydra
Václav Vydra
Baron Krog
Ladislav Boháč
Ladislav Boháč
Krog's Nephew
Karla Oličová
Karla Oličová
The Marshal's Daughter
Jaroslav Průcha
Jaroslav Průcha
Dr. Martin
František Smolík
František Smolík
Father
Helena Friedlová
Mother
Vítězslav Boček
Vítězslav Boček
Son

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The White Disease (1937) about?

Set against a backdrop of nationalist fervor, the film follows Dr. Galén as he discovers a cure for a deadly leprosy-like disease called morbus Tshengi—but refuses to share it while war ravages the nation. His moral stand pits science against power, exposing the fragile line between healing and destruction.

Who directed The White Disease?

The White Disease was directed by Hugo Haas, a Czech actor and filmmaker known for blending drama with political themes.

Who stars in The White Disease?

The film features Hugo Haas, Zdeněk Štěpánek, Bedřich Karen, Václav Vydra, and Ladislav Boháč in pivotal roles.

Is The White Disease (1937) worth watching?

Though unrated on IMDb, its sharp anti-war themes and expert direction by Haas make it a compelling watch for fans of classic political dramas. The blend of science fiction and moral dilemma ensures it remains relevant and thought-provoking.

How long is The White Disease?

The White Disease runs for 105 minutes.

About The White Disease (1937) — A Disturbing Dystopia of Science and War

In 1937, Czechoslovakia stands at a crossroads between arrogance and devastation. As nationalist rhetoric fuels military ambitions, a sinister epidemic called morbus Tshengi—nicknamed the "white disease"—spreads through the population, causing rapid deterioration and despair. Dr. Galén, a compassionate physician, holds the cure but withholds it, refusing to hand over his discovery while power-hungry leaders sacrifice lives for war. Hugo Haas' powerful drama blends science fiction with sharp social commentary, creating a tense moral drama where science and ideology clash.

The White Disease (1937) delivers a haunting critique of authoritarianism and the ethical limits of medical progress. With Zdeněk Štěpánek and Bedřich Karen leading a stellar cast, Haas crafts a visually striking and emotionally intense film that lingers long after the final scene. The atmosphere is oppressive yet thought-provoking, questioning whether progress should serve humanity or be weaponized.