I disagree with the prevailing opinion that this film is, as la Sirk, a critique of 50s culture in the U. S. especially since the main criticizer, James Mason's cortisone addled school teacher, seems to be perceived by the film makers as a proto Fascist, elitist, control freak and not someone to whom we should pay heed. However, as a study of an addictive personality this Nicholas Ray work is powerful. Ed Avery, the little man who feels big whenever he pops a pill, joins a distinguished cast of sick, tormented Ray anti heroes such as Dixon Steele in "Lonely Place", Jim Wilson in "On Dangerous Ground", Jeff McCloud in "Lusty Men" and, of course, Jim Stark in "Rebel". Indeed, Mason's performance of a man who would dominate all before him is so dominating that the other characters tend to recede from consciousness. Even very strong thesps like Walter Matthau tend to be on the bland side when measured against Mason and as for average performers like Barbara Rush, they soon descend into the realm of the faintly dull which is, ironically, where Ed feels he is before the miracle drug comes along. So what we're left with is a memorable performance wrapped around a not so memorable movie which is probably why it bombed at the box office. Give it a B minus.
PS...Cortisone may be dangerous but it sure as hell comes in handy when you're having a gout attack.
PS...Cortisone may be dangerous but it sure as hell comes in handy when you're having a gout attack.