The story of this earlier version, which was not as successful as Die Feuerzangenbowle (1944), is similar in plot. Writer Hans Pfeiffer is facing difficulties in directing his latest play about a high school class. When he is told that his lack of a regular school education is the reason, he decides to switch roles with his younger brother Erich, who is a senior at a small-town high school known for never graduating and constantly pulling pranks. When Erich, disguised as Hans, transforms from class clown to model student, everyone assumes it's just another joke. But Hans, now posing as Erich, is forced to continue in the role and finds that he is enjoying it.