[1] The plot is similar to Oscar Wilde's Picture of Dorian Gray, except that there are more logical explanations for the eternal youth of the main character.

The film is based on a 1939 West End play of the same title by Barré Lyndon, and stars Nils Asther and Helen Walker with direction by Ralph Murphy.

A scientist, Dr. Karell (Asther), has discovered a treatment that can indefinitely prolong his life, using glands stolen from human victims.

Having kept his achievement secret for over a century of continuous youth, Karell now has to contend with the curiosity of his new girlfriend Eve (Walker), the increasing guilt of his colleague Dr. Van Bruecken (Schünzel), and a police investigation of his most recent murder.

The 1959 Hammer Films remake, The Man Who Could Cheat Death, is available on DVD and Blu-ray from several labels.