Some films from the 1960s manage to endure as classics, while others remain firmly planted in the realm of passable entertainment. The Spirit is Willing (1967), directed by William Castle, is decidedly in the latter camp—a light-hearted supernatural comedy that aims for charm but lands squarely in middle-of-the-road Americana.
The story follows the Whitlock family as they move into an old seaside home, only to discover it’s haunted by a trio of mischievous ghosts. What unfolds is a series of slapstick encounters and mild frights that lean more on farcical antics than genuine scares. It’s a blend that Castle, known for his knack for gimmicky horror, doesn’t fully commit to, leaving the film feeling oddly safe and uninspired.
The comedy, while present, struggles to hit consistent highs. Much of the humour feels sanitised, playing to an audience that might have been more easily amused in the 1960s. By modern standards, the laughs are few and far between, with the film’s attempts at wit coming across as quaint rather than clever.
What The Spirit is Willing does have going for it is its cast, led by Sid Caesar (best remembered as the coach in Grease—who brings his trademark wry delivery to his role) and Vera Miles, who do their best with the material they’re given. Special mention must go to the young Barry Gordon, who injects a sense of energy into the proceedings. These performances elevate the film just enough to keep it watchable, even if they can’t entirely save it.
Visually, the film boasts some fun practical effects for its ghostly gags, though nothing particularly groundbreaking for the time. It’s all serviceable but lacks the kind of creativity that could have made the film a standout in Castle’s filmography.
Ultimately, The Spirit is Willing is a harmless, moderately amusing romp that never quite rises above mediocrity. While it has its moments, they are too few and far between to leave a lasting impression. For fans of 1960s cinema or William Castle completists, it’s worth a look—but don’t expect to be haunted by its brilliance.
- Saul Muerte
Surgeons of Horror 