this little known gem from 1940 be impressive for a few reason represent first and it stand head and shoulder above most of the b movie of the era and largely due to a good script and a great performance from boris karloff . also and while make in the midst of the universal horror period and it demonstrate some of the best element of that genre and however it also pre figure the oncoming decade of sci fi flick of the 50 and but with a more intelligent and and mysterious and plot than most of the b sci fi film that follow . it also incorporate some noir element such a shadowy image and gun play and etc . the man with nine life be also know under the alternative title behind the door ( which be actually more accurate ) .