Mr. Sardonicus (William Castle)

[Scott]

Seen MR. SARDONICUS for the first time. I find it hard to believe that I have never seen this movie till now. It should be a classic. Great sets, story, acting, b/w, and William Castle providing a punishment for viewer.

[BoyScoutKevin]

"During the initial theatrical release, attendees were given small white cards with luminous thumbs with which to vote thumbs-up or thumbs-down." (imdb.com) Then according to the way the audience voted, one of two endings was supposed to be shown. But, Mr. Castle, being no dummy, filmed only one ending. Betting--correctly--that audiences would always vote thumbs down.
I have seen the film, though I remember little about it. Enjoy!

[john]

It would have been funny if people had learned that while the film was in the theaters and gotten together to vote thumbs-up.

[AndyC]

I thought the ending itself was pretty classy. Some nice payback for Sardonicus from his abused servant, a slow death, no gore or violence. It's very creative, especially since Sardonicus is really the instrument of his own death. He's making it happen, and he has the power within him to make it stop. The contrast of Oscar Homolka calmly enjoying a meal while Sardonicus works himself into a panic makes it all very satisfying.