This film from Paramount Studios follows a similar theme of eternal youth established in the more famous "Picture of Dorian Gray" and does it well on a limited budget. That it is based on a stage play is obvious as filming is mostly on indoor sets and dialogue takes the place of action scenes. But it is a forgivable sin.
Nils Asther, unfamiliar to many, (as was Hurd Hatfield in "Picture of....") plays a man who has lived an unnaturally long life while remaining youthful (or so it appears). He must rely on an aged physician, well played by Reinhold Shunzel, for life prolonging treatments; however, the doctor is no longer able to assist Asther and other arrangements must be made. So begins a series of deaths through experimentation in an effort to keep Asther alive and youthful. Alas, time catches up with him and the last scene has him withering away before our eyes, utilizing fairly decent special effects considering the limited budget of the film.
This little "B" movie is oddly compelling even though it can't decide to which genre it belongs.....horror?, noir?, suspense?. Regardless, it is worth a watch if you enjoy little known gems. Overlook its shortcomings........it will keep your attention.
Nils Asther, unfamiliar to many, (as was Hurd Hatfield in "Picture of....") plays a man who has lived an unnaturally long life while remaining youthful (or so it appears). He must rely on an aged physician, well played by Reinhold Shunzel, for life prolonging treatments; however, the doctor is no longer able to assist Asther and other arrangements must be made. So begins a series of deaths through experimentation in an effort to keep Asther alive and youthful. Alas, time catches up with him and the last scene has him withering away before our eyes, utilizing fairly decent special effects considering the limited budget of the film.
This little "B" movie is oddly compelling even though it can't decide to which genre it belongs.....horror?, noir?, suspense?. Regardless, it is worth a watch if you enjoy little known gems. Overlook its shortcomings........it will keep your attention.