New documentary on William Castle

William Castle was one of the great innovators (and promoters) of mid-20th century Hollywood... the man who brought you joy buzzers beneath theater seats (in 'The Tingler'), skeletons flying above audiences (an effect he dubbed Emergo), and interactivity (a fake vote in 'Mr. Sardonicus.')

Now there's a documentary about Castle called 'Spine Tingler,' and I can't wait to see it. It played recently at the AFI Fest in Los Angeles, where it won the audience award for best documentary.

Here's the trailer:

In New York? Two Great Shows That Taste Great Together

If you're in the Greater New York area, filmmaker Lance Weiler is organizing a very special showing of his latest movie, 'Head Trauma,' complete with a DJ providing a live soundtrack -- and live performers in the audience. Plus, you're encouraged to use your cell phone -- which Lance incorporates in the story as a cinematic gaming device. It happens on Saturday, July 14th.

Is Lance gunning to be the new William Castle?

And the Museum of the Moving Image is also doing a preview screening of 'In the Shadow of the Moon,' in Manhattan on July 19th. Great documentary by British director David Sington, who'll be there in person.