Witchfinder General (1968)

"Witch Hunter General" delivers a drastic change in mood, the level of violence, and the kind of character that Vincent Price portrays compared to any of his earlier films. The innocent and campy effects are gone and have been replaced with scenes of torture and streaks of red paint that supposed to be blood. The film feels too adult and R rated for Vincent Price to be in but it was just the first of many that would showcase the esteemed actor in such a dark manner; I simply wasn't ready to see him as a lecherous, dirty old man who exchanges promises for sexual services. The film itself feels like it belongs on cable TV and shown during a midnight time slot.


Matthew Hopkins is the Witch Hunter General, dealing out his sense of justice from town to town by judging and executing those accused of witchcraft. He is assisted by John Stearne, a man who loves torture more than any man should. They cross paths with a young Roundhead named Richard Marshall while they are on their way to the interrogate Richard's fiance Sara and her uncle. Sara gives herself to Hopkins in order to stop her uncle's torture, but when Hopkins leaves for other business, Stearne kills the man and rapes Sara. When Richard Marshall finds out, he swears to kill Hopkins and Stearne, tracking them down as they continue to reap sexual favors and killing innocent people accused of being witches.

Matthew Hopkins, the Witch Hunter General

Hopkins and Stearne torturing Sara

Richard and Sara's wedding