Where to start
The Picture of Dorian Gray
5 versions · originally a book, 1908
Themes: Mortality, Vanity, Corruption, Influence, The Double.
These works explore the dark psychological consequences of trading one's soul for the preservation of eternal youth and beauty.
✦ Most fans start here
The Picture of Dorian Gray (1908)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Picture of Dorian Gray
Oscar Wilde · Book · 1908
The 1908 edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray remains the definitive literary source, offering the essential, original prose that establishes the foundational themes of aestheticism and moral decay.
1974 film
Phantom of the Paradise
Brian De Palma · Film · 1974
Phantom of the Paradise (1974) reinterprets the central themes of obsession and stolen identity through a stylized rock-opera lens, ideal for viewers seeking a creative, musical departure from the original.
2009 film
Dorian Gray
Film · 2009
The 2009 film Dorian Gray provides a straightforward, visually focused adaptation of the novel, serving as an accessible entry point for audiences who prefer cinematic storytelling over the original text.
2007 book
Dorian
Will Self · Book · 2007
Dorian (2007) is a bold, contemporary reimagining that transposes Wilde's narrative into the hedonistic 1980s London art scene, perfect for readers interested in how classic themes translate to modern settings.
Inspired by
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat · Film · 2024
The Substance (2024) offers a visceral, modern exploration of the desperate pursuit of youth, making it the best choice for viewers who enjoy high-concept, intense psychological body horror cinema.
Common questions
Is The Picture of Dorian Gray the only version of the story available?
No, the story has been adapted into several formats. You can explore the 2009 movie titled Dorian Gray or read the 2007 book titled Dorian. These works offer different interpretations of the original narrative found in the 1908 edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Are there movies similar to The Picture of Dorian Gray that feature a Faustian bargain?
Yes, you can watch the 1974 film Phantom of the Paradise or the 2024 film The Substance. Both movies explore themes of vanity and corruption that mirror the central premise of The Picture of Dorian Gray, providing a modern or stylized take on the classic tale of moral decay.
Should I read the 1908 book The Picture of Dorian Gray before watching the adaptations?
Reading the 1908 edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray first is recommended to understand the source material. Once you are familiar with the original text, you can compare how different adaptations, such as the 2009 movie Dorian Gray, translate the themes and plot points to the screen.
How long is the 1908 text of The Picture of Dorian Gray?
The 1908 edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel-length work. While the specific page count depends on the publisher and formatting, it remains the definitive source material for all subsequent adaptations, including the 2007 book Dorian and the 2009 film Dorian Gray.