Life For Ruth (1962)

After a boating accident, an eight year old girl (Lynn Taylor) needs a blood transfusion to survive. But because of his religious beliefs, her father (Michael Craig) refuses. When the child dies, he must contend not only with his guilt and the revelation that although his wife (Janet Munro) converted to his religion, she doesn't share his belief but also a manslaughter charge brought on by the doctor (Patrick McGoohan) on the case. Directed by Basil Dearden (SAPPHIRE), this is a film that brings up complex issues about parental rights, religious freedom, a state's obligation to protect children, biblical interpretation and more. The film presents both sides and while it doesn't take a stand on the subject, at least it doesn't cop out. There are no "winners" here. While (at least to me) it seems unthinkable that a parent would consciously let their child die for a "belief", the father is not presented as a wacko religious fanatic. He's sincere and the ramifications of his act are not lost on him and Craig's reaction after the verdict is read comes as a surprise. Well thought out and intelligent, seek it out if it comes your way. With Michael Bryant, Megs Jenkins and Frank Finlay.