Witchfinder General (1968)

Set in 1645 England during the English Civil War, an opportunistic witch hunter (Vincent Price) takes advantage of the situation to make a profit on getting "witches" to confess with the help of his sadistic henchman (Robert Russell). He falsely proclaims himself appointed the Witchfinder General by Parliament. Based on the novel by Ronald Bassett and directed by Michael Reeves (THE SORCERERS), who died nine months after the film's release at the age of 25. Although the movie's initial release was dismissed by most critical factions, the film has amassed a cult following and its reputation rehabilitated in the ensuing decades. Personally, I found most of the film repugnant, a nasty piece of goods with the director seemingly savoring every piece of torture and rape. Is there anything worthwhile about the film? Yes, Vincent Price is quite good and gives a restrained and chilling portrait of evil that is quite different from his often hammy performances in Roger Corman's Poe adaptations. With Ian Oglivy, Hilary Dwyer, Rupert Davies, Patrick Wymark, Nicky Henson and Margaret Nolan.