Bigger Than Life

Bigger Than Life

Bigger Than Life is a 1956 American drama film directed by Nicholas Ray and starring James Mason, Barbara Rush, and Walter Matthau. The film is based on a 1955 article by medical writer Berton Roueché in The New Yorker titled "Ten Feet Tall." It explores themes of addiction, mental illness, and the pressures of modern life.

Plot Summary

The film follows Ed Avery, a mild-mannered schoolteacher who begins to suffer from severe pain and is diagnosed with a rare inflammatory disease. He is prescribed the then-experimental drug cortisone, which initially seems to work wonders. However, as Ed continues to take the drug, he begins to experience severe side effects, including mood swings, delusions of grandeur, and violent behavior.

Ed's transformation from a loving husband and father into a tyrannical figure is depicted with increasing intensity. His wife, Lou, and son, Richie, become fearful of his erratic behavior. The film climaxes with Ed's breakdown and eventual realization of the drug's impact on his life.

Themes

Bigger Than Life addresses several important themes:

• Addiction and Dependency: The film explores the dangers of becoming dependent on medication, particularly when the side effects are not fully understood.
• Mental Illness: Ed's descent into madness highlights the thin line between sanity and insanity, exacerbated by external substances.
• Family Dynamics: The impact of Ed's condition on his family is a central focus, illustrating the strain that illness can place on familial relationships.
• Critique of Modern Life: The film critiques the pressures of modern life and the pursuit of success, suggesting that these pressures can lead to destructive behavior.

Production

Bigger Than Life was produced by 20th Century Fox and was one of the first films to be shot in CinemaScope, a widescreen format that enhanced the visual storytelling. James Mason, who also served as a producer, was instrumental in bringing the story to the screen.

Reception

Upon its release, Bigger Than Life received mixed reviews. Some critics praised its bold storytelling and Mason's performance, while others found its portrayal of drug addiction and mental illness to be sensationalized. Over time, the film has been re-evaluated and is now considered a classic, noted for its ahead-of-its-time exploration of complex themes.

Legacy

Bigger Than Life has influenced numerous filmmakers and is often cited in discussions of films that tackle difficult social issues. Its portrayal of the dark side of medical advancements remains relevant in contemporary discussions about pharmaceuticals and mental health.

Also see

• Nicholas Ray
• James Mason
• CinemaScope
• Cortisone
• 20th Century Fox