The original Mexican film was directed by Fernando Cortés, written by Alfredo Varela Jr., and released in Mexico on October 12, 1961.
[6] Dr. Malthus (Fernando Casanova), a 19th-century mad scientist, discovers the secret of eternal youth by means of transfusing the blood of young women into his subjects.
Malthus then resumes his rejuvenation activities using himself as the subject and enabled by his grandson, who procures healthy young victims they can bleed.
[9] Warren wrote actor Bruno Ve Sota into the film as a police inspector receiving a shoulder massage in the added American footage, and added some scenes starring Katherine Victor as a fortune teller conducting a seance.
[12] Fred Olen Ray said "Whenever the original Spanish cast members are called upon to speak, we are treated to a constant stream of voice-over narration, supplied by the grandson, who conveniently explains what they are saying....Bruno Ve Sota, receiving one of cinema's longest arm massages, rattles on incessantly....It is maddening.