The White Parade

Year: 1934

Runtime: 80 mins

Language: English

Director: Irving Cummings

Drama

The film follows a group of ambitious women training to become nurses at a hospital school, enduring rigorous physical and mental discipline to earn their place in the 'White Parade.' Centered on June Arden, who falls in love with Ronald Hall III, the story also weaves the triumphs, setbacks, humor and tears of her fellow trainees and forged ties.

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The White Parade (1934) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of The White Parade (1934), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

In 1907, June Arden enrolls at the Mitchell-Reed School for Nurses with the ambition of following in the footsteps of Florence Nightingale. She shares a room with Zita Scofield, who struggles with homesickness, and June mentions her acquaintance with Ronald Hall III, a wealthy polo player, a relationship later confirmed by Ronald’s secretary.

After six months of study, the students pass their first examination and begin practical training at a nearby hospital. Despite the demanding workload, Gertrude Mack, one of the students, frequently interferes in others’ affairs. When Gertrude learns that Ronald will visit the city, she inquires if June plans to meet him. June meets Ronald at the train station, and they soon develop a genuine romantic relationship.

During the course, June faces difficulties balancing her studies with her relationship. After a disagreement over June’s nursing career, Ronald is involved in a car accident and recuperates at the hospital where June works. June requests a shift change to care for him but ultimately chooses to attend to a terminally ill patient instead.

Two weeks before the final exams, Zita is reprimanded for slow performance and, following a conflict with her boyfriend Dr. Jim Moore, attempts suicide with anesthetics. June, responsible for the anesthesia keys, had temporarily entrusted them to another staff member. Zita is saved by surgeon Dr. Thorne, who, alongside head nurse Sailor Roberts, advocates for June to remain enrolled despite the incident. The school principal permits June to continue and take the final examination.

On graduation day, Gertrude apologizes to June for previous behavior. June’s relationship with Ronald ends after he insists she abandon her nursing career upon marriage. June affirms her dedication to nursing, a decision supported by Dr. Thorne.

Last Updated: October 07, 2025 at 09:03

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