Magnificent Obsession (1954): cast, story & where to watch
1954 · Film · ★ 6.8

Released in 1954, Magnificent Obsession is a drama and romance film directed by Douglas Sirk, running about 108 minutes. “The Great Love Story... by the author of "THE ROBE"” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. When churlish, spoiled rich man Bob Merrick foolishly wrecks his speedboat, the rescue team resuscitates him with equipment therefore unavailable to aid a local hero, Dr. Wayne Phillips, who dies as a result. Phillips had helped many people, and when Merrick learns of the doctor's way of life-- That is, to selflessly give of himself and his finances, in secret-- Bob attempts it in a ham-handed way. From then on, the lives of Helen Phillips and Bob Merrick intersect, first in tragedy, then in love.
Who’s in it. Magnificent Obsession stars Jane Wyman as Helen Phillips, Rock Hudson as Bob Merrick, Barbara Rush as Joyce Phillips and Agnes Moorehead as Nancy Ashford, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.8/10, Magnificent Obsession has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Magnificent Obsession page.
If you liked it. Fans of Magnificent Obsession tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Magnificent Obsession (1954)?
- In US, Magnificent Obsession is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Magnificent Obsession worth watching?
- Magnificent Obsession holds an audience score of 6.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and romance. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Magnificent Obsession?
- Magnificent Obsession stars Jane Wyman, Rock Hudson, Barbara Rush, Agnes Moorehead and Otto Kruger.
- When was Magnificent Obsession released?
- Magnificent Obsession was released in 1954, with a runtime of about 108 minutes.
