A friendly, successful suburban teacher and father grows dangerously addicted to cortisone, resulting in his transformation into a household despot.

James Mason
as Ed Avery

Barbara Rush
as Lou Avery

Walter Matthau
as Wally Gibbs

Robert F. Simon
as Dr. Norton

Christopher Olsen
as Richie Avery

Roland Winters
as Dr. Ruric

Rusty Lane
as Bob LaPorte

Rachel Stephens
as Nurse

Kipp Hamilton
as Pat Wade

Betty Caulfield
as Mrs. LaPorte (uncredited)
Godaray
The movie deals with serious topics pertaining to life and drug abuse. Ed Avery (James Mason) has a serious condition which can only be controlled with cortisone, a still experimental drug leaving consequences in the human psyche. In the movie, Ed is describes as an intelligent, vibrant and happy ma...