Dive into the world of healthcare workers, specifically orderlies, whose lives are often filled with both mundane routines and profound human interactions. These films not only provide a glimpse into the daily lives of these unsung heroes but also explore themes of compassion, resilience, and the human spirit. This curated collection of dramatic films about orderlies offers a unique perspective on healthcare, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate stories of personal growth, emotional depth, and the unsung heroes of the medical world.

The Hospital (1971)
Description: This dark comedy-drama involves an orderly named Harry who navigates through a chaotic hospital environment, reflecting on the absurdity and humanity in healthcare.
Fact: The film was written by Paddy Chayefsky, who also wrote "Network," and it won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.


One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Description: This iconic film features an orderly named Turkle who becomes part of a patient's rebellion against the oppressive hospital regime. His role highlights the complex dynamics between staff and patients in a mental institution.
Fact: The film won all five major Academy Awards (Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay) in 1976, a feat matched only by "It Happened One Night" and "The Silence of the Lambs."


The Doctor (1991)
Description: This film delves into the life of a surgeon who, after becoming a patient, gains a new perspective on healthcare, with orderlies playing a crucial role in his journey.
Fact: William Hurt, who plays the lead, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role.


The Straight Story (1999)
Description: While not about an orderly, the film features a nurse who assists the protagonist, showcasing the compassionate side of healthcare workers and their impact on patients' lives.
Fact: This was David Lynch's only film to receive a G rating from the MPAA.


Nurse Betty (2000)
Description: While not directly about an orderly, this film features a nurse who becomes an orderly in her quest for a new life, showcasing the emotional journey and the impact of healthcare workers on patients' lives.
Fact: Morgan Freeman, who plays a hitman in the film, was initially hesitant to take the role but was convinced by director Neil LaBute.


The Savages (2007)
Description: This film explores the life of siblings dealing with their father's health issues, with orderlies playing a significant role in the narrative, highlighting their often overlooked contributions.
Fact: Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman were both nominated for Academy Awards for their performances.


The Visitor (2007)
Description: While not directly about an orderly, the film features a professor who becomes involved in the lives of immigrants, with healthcare workers, including orderlies, playing a part in the narrative.
Fact: Richard Jenkins received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in this film.


The Night Clerk (2020)
Description: Although not strictly about an orderly, the protagonist works at a hotel, dealing with guests' needs, which parallels the role of an orderly in a hospital setting, exploring themes of surveillance and personal growth.
Fact: Tye Sheridan, who plays the lead, is known for his roles in "Ready Player One" and "X-Men: Apocalypse."


The Assistant (2019)
Description: This film, while centered around an assistant in a film production company, mirrors the challenges faced by orderlies in their daily tasks and the moral dilemmas they encounter.
Fact: The film was shot in just 19 days and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of workplace dynamics.


The Death of Mr. Lazarescu (2005)
Description: This Romanian film follows an elderly man's journey through the healthcare system, with orderlies and paramedics playing pivotal roles in his care, offering a raw look at the system's shortcomings.
Fact: The film won the Un Certain Regard award at the Cannes Film Festival.
