CBS.com Offers Interactive Video App, Extensive Online Enhancements for "CSI Trilogy" Event

To mark CBS's "CSI Trilogy" week--a "crossover event" in which Dr Raymond Langston, a character from the original "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" show, will attempt to solve a case that will also see him appearing in the "CSI" franchise's "CSI: Miami" and "CSI: New York" spin-offs--CBS Interactive has launched a site (http://csicrossover.com), which, among other things, features an interactive application, dubbed "CSI Zeta Casefile," that allows viewers to be part of a "CSI"-inspired video. The site, which is sponsored by Cadillac, also features exclusive interviews with the "CSI" shows' cast and real forensic experts, virtual tours of the crime labs featured on each of the "CSI" shows (note: the tours provide them with information on the special effects, set designs and various other technologies used on the shows), a gallery of stills and images from the three shows, and the chance to win a trip to the set of "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation."

According to CBS Interactive, the CSI Zeta Casefile application uses Facebook Connect to pull photos and information from a user's Facebook account, in order to produce a personalized criminal file and video that includes make-believe information on past crimes, aliases and last known locations. It also allows users to share the results with others on their Facebook network. "Each of the 'CSI' series continues to be among the most popular shows on CBS," Bill Binenstock, VP and manager of CBS.com, said in a prepared statement. "The upcoming 'CSI' Trilogy has caused enormous buzz throughout the CBS.com 'CSI' communities, and we wanted to build a site that would give fans a fascinating and exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the three series. The Zeta Casefile program is a creative and fun way to keep users engaged, while the behind-the-scenes content will give fans a deeper look into how the fictional 'CSI' series are the most realistic looking shows on television."