The White Parade

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.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The White Parade (1934)

Trace every key event in The White Parade (1934) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

June Arden enrolls at Mitchell-Reed School for Nurses

June Arden enrolls at the Mitchell-Reed School for Nurses with the ambition of following Florence Nightingale. She begins a demanding journey toward becoming a nurse.

1907 Mitchell-Reed School for Nurses
2

June shares a dorm room with Zita Scofield

She shares a room with Zita Scofield, who struggles with homesickness. The close quarters begin to form a supportive friendship as they face the demanding training together.

Mitchell-Reed School dormitory
3

June mentions Ronald Hall III as an acquaintance

June mentions her acquaintance with Ronald Hall III, a wealthy polo player. A secretary later confirms the relationship.

4

First exam passed and practical training begins

After six months of study, the students pass their first examination and begin practical training at a nearby hospital. The workload tests their endurance as they juggle theory with hands-on care.

Nearby hospital
5

June struggles to balance studies and romance

During the course, June finds it hard to balance her nursing studies with her growing romance. The strain creates tension as the expectations of school and love collide.

Mitchell-Reed campus
6

June meets Ronald at the train station; romance blooms

Ronald visits the city and June meets him at the train station, sparking a genuine romantic relationship. Their connection deepens amid the busy hospital environment.

Train Station
7

Disagreement over June's nursing career strains their relationship

A disagreement over June's nursing career emerges, creating tension between the couple. The dispute foreshadows the clash between personal happiness and professional dedication.

City
8

Ronald suffers a car accident and recovers in hospital

Ronald is involved in a car accident and recuperates at the hospital where June works. The incident forces June to confront her duties as a nurse and a partner.

City Hospital
9

June seeks a shift change but stays with patient care

June requests a shift change to care for Ronald, hoping to support him personally. Ultimately, she chooses to attend to a terminally ill patient, reaffirming her commitment to nursing.

City Hospital
10

Two weeks before finals: Zita's crisis and suicide attempt

Two weeks before final exams, Zita is reprimanded for slow performance and clashes with her boyfriend, Dr. Jim Moore. In a moment of despair, she attempts suicide with anesthetics.

Two weeks before final exams Hospital
11

Anesthetics keys, Zita saved, and advocacy for June

June, who holds the anesthesia keys, had temporarily entrusted them to another staff member. Zita is saved by surgeon Dr. Thorne, and head nurse Sailor Roberts urges that June be allowed to remain enrolled.

Operating theatre
12

Principal permits June to continue and take the final exam

The school principal grants June permission to continue and take the final examination. The decision underscores faith in her abilities and the staff's support.

Mitchell-Reed School
13

Graduation day and Gertrude's apology

On graduation day, Gertrude apologizes to June for her prior behavior. The moment marks a shift in the class dynamics as the cohort moves forward.

Graduation day Graduation hall
14

Ronald ends relationship after demanding she abandon nursing

June's relationship with Ronald ends after he insists she abandon her nursing career upon marriage. She stays steadfast in her professional calling despite the heartbreak.

City
15

June affirms nursing devotion with Dr. Thorne's support

June affirms her dedication to nursing, a decision supported by Dr. Thorne who believes in her future and the importance of her work.

Hospital

Last Updated: October 07, 2025 at 09:03

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The White Parade Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The White Parade

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The White Parade

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