49 Facts About The Movie Witchfinder General

The movie was released under different titles.

When Witchfinder General first hit the screens, it was titled “The Conqueror Worm” in the United States and “Matthew Hopkins: Witchfinder General” in some other countries.

The film is based on a novel.

“Witchfinder General” was inspired by the historical novel written by Ronald Bassett. The novel recounts the exploits of Matthew Hopkins and his brutal witch-hunting methods.

Vincent Price plays the lead role.

The legendary Vincent Price portrays the sinister character of Matthew Hopkins in Witchfinder General. His chilling performance adds an extra layer of terror to the film.

The film faced censorship challenges.

Due to its violent and disturbing content, Witchfinder General faced heavy censorship in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Several scenes had to be cut or altered to meet the requirements of the respective censorship boards.

The director unfortunately passed away early.

Michael Reeves, the talented director of Witchfinder General, tragically died at the young age of 25, shortly after the film’s release. His untimely death marked the end of a promising career in the film industry.

The movie received mixed reviews upon release.

Witchfinder General garnered a range of reviews from critics. Some praised its atmospheric intensity and the performances of the cast, while others criticized its violence and lack of historical accuracy.

It was one of Vincent Price’s favorite roles.

Vincent Price considered his role as Matthew Hopkins to be one of his finest performances. He embraced the darkness of the character and delivered a chilling portrayal that still resonates with audiences today.

It showcases the horrors of witch trials.

Witchfinder General delves into the horrors of witch trials that took place during the English Civil War. The film depicts the paranoia, cruelty, and injustice that characterized this dark chapter in history.

The sound design adds to the eerie atmosphere.

The atmospheric sound design of Witchfinder General plays a crucial role in creating a sense of unease and foreboding throughout the film. The haunting sound effects perfectly complement the bleak visuals.

The movie was shot on a low budget.

Despite its limited budget, Witchfinder General managed to deliver a visually impressive and chilling production. The creative team found innovative ways to maximize the resources available and create a captivating film.

It features stunning English countryside landscapes.

Witchfinder General showcases the breathtaking beauty of the English countryside, juxtaposing its serene landscapes with the brutal horrors unfolding within them. The contrast adds an extra layer of impact to the storytelling.

The film’s violence caused controversy.

Witchfinder General’s explicit violence and sadistic scenes caused considerable controversy upon its release. Some viewers found it difficult to stomach the graphic nature of the film’s depictions.

The movie takes some historical liberties.

While largely based on historical events, Witchfinder General takes certain creative liberties in its portrayal of characters and incidents. It blends fact and fiction to enhance the dramatic impact of the story.

The score was composed by Paul Ferris.

Paul Ferris composed the haunting score for Witchfinder General, contributing to the film’s overall atmosphere of dread and suspense. The music perfectly complements the narrative and intensifies the emotional impact of key scenes.

It remains a cult classic.

Over the years, Witchfinder General has achieved cult status among horror movie enthusiasts. Its blend of atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and historical subject matter has ensured its enduring popularity.

The movie inspired other films.

Witchfinder General’s success and influence can be seen in subsequent films exploring similar themes, such as “The Blood on Satan’s Claw” and “The Wicker Man.” It paved the way for a new era of British horror cinema.

Witchfinder General was a box office success.

Despite facing censorship challenges and mixed reviews, Witchfinder General performed well at the box office. Its unique blend of historical drama and horror captivated audiences and solidified its place in cinema history.

The film features intense torture scenes.

Witchfinder General doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutal reality of torture during witch trials. The graphic scenes depicting physical and psychological violence are a harrowing reminder of the horrors inflicted on innocent people.

Some shots were filmed at real historical locations.

The production team went to great lengths to achieve authenticity. Some key scenes of Witchfinder General were filmed at actual historical locations associated with the events portrayed in the film.

The screenplay was written by Tom Baker.

Tom Baker, not to be confused with the actor who portrayed the fourth Doctor in Doctor Who, was the screenwriter for Witchfinder General. His script expertly captures the moral complexity and darkest aspects of the story.

The movie underwent extensive restoration.

In recent years, Witchfinder General underwent a comprehensive restoration process to preserve its visual quality and ensure its availability for future generations of audiences to enjoy.

The film tackles themes of corruption.

Witchfinder General explores themes of corruption, abuse of power, and the devastating consequences of fanaticism. Its narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authority and prejudice.

Critics have reevaluated the film over time.

Although Witchfinder General faced mixed reviews upon release, many critics and scholars have reevaluated its significance over time. It is now widely regarded as a key work in British horror cinema.

The movie showcases strong performances.

In addition to Vincent Price’s standout performance, Witchfinder General features strong performances from the rest of the cast, including Ian Ogilvy, Rupert Davies, and Hilary Dwyer. Their collective talent contributes to the film’s impact.

It highlights the vulnerability of women.

Witchfinder General sheds light on the vulnerability of women during the witch-hunting era. The film portrays the rampant misogyny and objectification of women, highlighting the unjust treatment they endured.

The film’s marketing emphasized its horror elements.

When promoting Witchfinder General, the marketing campaign focused heavily on its horror elements, including gruesome images and taglines designed to tantalize audiences seeking a terrifying cinematic experience.

The movie’s historical accuracy is debated.

While Witchfinder General is inspired by historical events, the debate over its historical accuracy continues among scholars and historians. Some appreciate its creative interpretation, while others critique its fictional elements.

The film captures the chaos of war.

Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War, Witchfinder General effectively captures the chaos, destruction, and social upheaval of the time. The war forms a crucial context for the film’s narrative.

It was Vincent Price’s last collaboration with director Michael Reeves.

Witchfinder General marked the final collaboration between Vincent Price and director Michael Reeves. Their previous collaborations include “The Conqueror Worm” and “The She Beast.”

The movie tackles the abuse of religious authority.

Witchfinder General critically examines the abuse of religious authority during the time of the witch trials. It exposes the dangerous consequences of religious fervor and the exploitation of faith for personal gain.

The film’s atmosphere is hauntingly atmospheric.

One of Witchfinder General’s strongest attributes is its haunting atmosphere. Through its cinematography, lighting, and set design, the film creates an oppressive and unsettling mood that pervades every scene.

It intertwines personal vendettas with witch trials.

Witchfinder General intertwines elements of personal vengeance with the larger narrative of witch trials. The characters’ personal motivations add complexity to the story and blur the boundaries between justice and revenge.

The editing of the film is noteworthy.

Witchfinder General’s editing plays a crucial role in enhancing its impact. The sharp cuts, juxtaposition of scenes, and pacing contribute to the overall intensity and tension of the film.

The movie addresses the fear of the unknown.

At its core, Witchfinder General explores the fear of the unknown and the dangers of ignorance-driven paranoia. It reflects on society’s tendency to fear and persecute things it does not understand.

The cinematography captures the bleakness of the era.

The cinematography in Witchfinder General effectively captures the bleakness and desolation of the historical era it portrays. The visuals evoke a sense of hopelessness against the backdrop of a society torn apart by war and superstition.

The film benefits from strong character development.

Witchfinder General provides compelling character development, particularly for Matthew Hopkins and Richard Marshall. Their complex arcs allow audiences to engage with their journeys throughout the film.

It has become a subject of academic analysis.

Witchfinder General’s cultural significance has led to its inclusion in academic curricula and scholarly analysis. It is examined for its thematic depth, historical context, and impact on British cinema.

The movie’s screenplay was rewritten.

Prior to filming, the screenplay for Witchfinder General underwent significant revisions. The changes aimed to heighten the tension, develop the characters further, and refine the overall narrative structure.

It portrays the corruption of justice.

Witchfinder General highlights the corruption of justice during the witch-hunting era. It reveals how power, prejudice, and personal vendettas often influenced the outcome of trials, leading to innocent lives being destroyed.

The film’s violence reflects its time.

Witchfinder General’s explicit violence reflects the growing trend of graphic horror films during the late 1960s. It pushed the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable in mainstream cinema at the time.

It conveys a sense of impending doom.

Throughout Witchfinder General, there is a pervasive sense of impending doom. From the opening scenes, the film establishes a foreboding atmosphere that lingers until its devastating conclusion.

The movie addresses themes of revenge and justice.

Revenge and justice are central themes in Witchfinder General. The lines between seeking retribution and pursuing true justice are blurred, challenging viewers to question their own moral compass.

Witchfinder General was controversial upon release.

Due to its explicit content, Witchfinder General faced controversy and was banned in some countries. The film’s unflinching portrayal of violence and sadism provoked strong reactions from audiences and critics alike.

The film has aged well.

Despite being over five decades old, Witchfinder General remains a powerful and relevant piece of cinema. Its exploration of themes such as abuse of power and the manipulation of fear resonates with contemporary audiences.

The movie showcases the talents of a young cast.

In addition to Vincent Price’s commanding presence, Witchfinder General features a talented young cast. Their performances helped establish their careers in the film industry and contributed to the film’s overall success.

It explores the limits of morality.

Witchfinder General poses thought-provoking questions about the limits of morality in times of crisis and social upheaval. It forces audiences to confront their own beliefs and consider the lengths they would go to survive.

The film has a lasting impact on horror cinema.

Witchfinder General’s influence on the horror genre cannot be overstated. Its mix of historical drama, psychological terror, and explicit violence paved the way for future horror films to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.

Witchfinder General has a dedicated fan base.

Over the years, Witchfinder General has garnered a strong and dedicated fan base. Its distinctive blend of horror, history, and social commentary resonates with a wide range of audiences and continues to attract new viewers.

It serves as a cautionary tale.

Above all, Witchfinder General serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fanaticism, mob mentality, and unchecked authority. Its underlying message remains relevant, urging audiences to question the motives behind those in positions of power.

These 49 fascinating facts about Witchfinder General offer a glimpse into the intricate and disturbing world created by Michael Reeves. From its controversial release to its lasting impact on horror cinema, this movie continues to captivate and haunt audiences to this day. So, make sure to watch Witchfinder General and experience the chilling tale of Matthew Hopkins, the Witchfinder General himself!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Witchfinder General is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Its gripping storyline, exceptional performances, and atmospheric setting make it a must-watch for any movie enthusiast. With these 49 fascinating facts about Witchfinder General, you now have a deeper understanding of the film and its historical context. From the controversial production to the impact it had on the horror genre, this movie continues to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Whether you’re a fan of horror films or simply appreciate exceptional cinema, Witchfinder General is a film that should be on your watchlist.

FAQs

Q: Who directed Witchfinder General?

A: Witchfinder General was directed by Michael Reeves.

Q: When was Witchfinder General released?

A: Witchfinder General was released in 1968.

Q: Is Witchfinder General based on a true story?

A: While the film is inspired by real historical events, it is not entirely based on a true story. It takes liberties with the narrative for dramatic purposes.

Q: What is the genre of Witchfinder General?

A: Witchfinder General is classified as a horror film, specifically falling under the subgenre of historical horror.

Q: Who are the main stars of Witchfinder General?

A: Vincent Price, Ian Ogilvy, and Hilary Dwyer portray the main characters in Witchfinder General.

Q: Where was Witchfinder General filmed?

A: The film was primarily shot in East Anglia, England, including locations such as Lavenham and Norfolk.

Q: Did Witchfinder General receive positive reviews?

A: Initially met with mixed reviews, Witchfinder General has since been recognized as an influential and important film in the horror genre.

Q: Is Witchfinder General available on streaming platforms?

A: Yes, Witchfinder General can be streamed on various online platforms like Amazon Prime and iTunes.