With lesser leading performances, this compelling drama about a doctor's willing submission to addiction in the cause of science could have fallen flat.

Fortunately, James Mason, who also produced the film, is excellent as the hapless guinea pig, and the underrated Barbara Rush tremendously impressive as his horrified wife.

Walter Matthau is likeably steadfast as their friend, but Christopher Olsen as their son will harden the feelings of those who dislike precocious child actors.

Photography is excellent and, although the film sags around three-quarters of the way through the story, director Nicholas Ray still has moments of high impact up his sleeve.

Now showing in a spanking new print.