Welcome to General Witchfinders, a podcast dedicated to the dark heart of British horror and classic Hammer horror films – officially selected for permanent preservation in the British Library’s National Sound Archive.
If you are passionate about British horror cinema, Hammer films, classic folk horror, Nigel Kneale’s Quatermass, and the chilling legacy of British supernatural television, this is the podcast for you.
Hosted by lifelong friends Ross, Jon, and James, General Witchfinders dives deep into the world of British horror, gothic cinema, and unsettling archive television.
We explore everything from Hammer horror’s blood-drenched vampire classics – starring Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing – to the eerie landscapes of The Wicker Man, Tigon’s The Creeping Flesh, and Amicus anthology films.
Whether it is cinematic British horror icons like Dracula AD 1972 and The Curse of Frankenstein, modern independent UK folk horror like Possum and In The Earth, or sci-fi horror thrillers like Event Horizon and The Medusa Touch, we unearth the films that shaped the genre.
We cover the definitive British sci-fi horror of Nigel Kneale – including The Quatermass Xperiment, Quatermass 2, Quatermass and the Pit, The Stone Tape, and his terrifying TV anthology series Beasts.
Our episodes shine a spotlight on classic British horror literature, including the tales of James Herbert from The Rats to The Survivor, alongside vintage television gems like the BBC’s Ghost Stories for Christmas (Whistle and I’ll Come to You, The Ash Tree), Doomwatch, Tales of the Unexpected, Inside No. 9, Ghostwatch, and classic Doctor Who horror stories like The Dæmons and Horror of Fang Rock.
Expect thoughtful commentary, dry wit, and nostalgic tangents about 1980s and 90s British culture.
Beyond the Podcast We also publish the independent General Witchfinders horror zine and host live podcast events and film screenings for the UK horror community.
General Witchfinders is your premier audio guide to British horror, Hammer films, folk horror, Quatermass, and everything that makes the UK’s supernatural tradition uniquely haunting.
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or grab our latest horror zine and live event tickets at www.generalwitchfinders.com.
Listener Reviews
“Really entertaining and insightful. About half a dozen episodes done so far, and all on horror/supernatural things I personally love and wanted to hear more about. Lots of new facts and just downright entertaining takedowns. Great work.” – 5 Stars *****
🦴 “If you’re looking for a fun chat about vintage British horror and sci-fi, then this is the podcast for you.” – 5 Stars *****
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The hosts dissect Hammer Horror's "Blood from the Mummy's Tomb," a 1971 film notorious for its troubled production, including director Seth Holt's on-set death and extensive rewrites. They discuss Christopher Wicking's script, Tristram Cary's electronic score, and Valerie Leon's acclaimed but challenging dual performance. The conversation also covers the film's unusual narrative style, supporting cast, and how production woes inadvertently created a uniquely ambiguous Hammer film, blending occult themes with a confusing but visually striking aesthetic.
Recorded live in Dorchester, this General Witchfinders episode is a deep dive into the captivating world of folk horror. The hosts discuss the genre's origins, its "Unholy Trinity" of films, and key characteristics like rural settings and ancient belief systems. They explore the contributions of literary figures like M.R. James and screenwriters such as Nigel Kneale, examining how they shaped and sometimes subverted folk horror tropes. The episode also touches on the genre's resurgence, influenced by 1970s occult revival and public information films, concluding with personal recommendations and an engaging audience Q&A.
Join the General Witchfinders as they dissect "The Medusa Touch," a quintessential 70s British disaster-occult thriller starring Richard Burton. The discussion covers Burton's intense portrayal of John Morlar, his real-life struggles, and the film's production challenges due to his high cost. The hosts also explore the impressive supporting cast and the movie's dark, compelling narrative about a man who wills catastrophe upon others.
This episode offers a deep dive into Hammer Films' 1967 cult classic, "Frankenstein Created Woman," analyzing its shift from physical reanimation to a metaphysical exploration of the soul. The hosts discuss Peter Cushing's refined portrayal of Baron Frankenstein, the iconic casting of Susan Denberg, and the legendary dubbing work of Nikki van der Zyl. The discussion covers the film's production challenges, box office performance, and its place within the Hammer canon, including individual actor spotlights and a detailed plot breakdown with critical commentary.
The hosts thoroughly review "The Asphyx," a 1972 British sci-fi horror cult classic, discussing its peculiar plot about a scientist who discovers how to capture the "spirit of death." They critique its poor image quality, celebrate the legendary cast and crew, and explore its thematic connections to "Ghostbusters" and "Frankenstein." The episode also covers failed remake attempts and debates the film's overall impact and potential for a modern reinterpretation, concluding with a separate review of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple."
This episode explores the unique 1981 Doctor Who spin-off pilot, "K-9 and Company," starring Elisabeth Sladen as Sarah Jane Smith and John Leeson as K9. The hosts delve into the pilot's production, Sladen's return to the role, the challenges of the K9 prop, and the surprisingly bizarre witchcraft plot. They share personal anecdotes and offer their reactions to this historical, albeit unusual, piece of Doctor Who canon.
This episode explores "The Ice House," the final installment of the original BBC Ghost Story for Christmas run, noting its departure from traditional period adaptations. The hosts delve into the film's uncanny atmosphere, enigmatic characters, and ambiguous narrative, comparing it to authors like Robert Aikerman. Amidst the review, they also offer extensive commentary on the disappointing state of current British Christmas television programming and share personal anecdotes, including a lengthy discussion on Transformers.
This episode offers a deep dive into the 1973 British horror film "Psychomania," also known as "The Death Wheelers." Hosts Ross, Jon, and James explore its low-budget production, the unusual career paths of its cast (including Oscar winner George Sanders), and the film's distinct anachronistic charm. The discussion covers the movie's unique narrative about an immortal biker gang and its unexpected blend of horror and comedy, while also sharing personal reflections and recommendations for other horrific media.
The hosts wrap up their two-part discussion on Flash Gordon, focusing on the film's thrilling climax, including Klytus's dramatic demise, Ming's tempting offer to Flash, and the final battle. They explore the film's eccentric visuals, memorable lines, and its legacy as a beloved cult classic. The episode also features listener feedback and diverse reviews of other horror media and live shows.
The General Witchfinders celebrate Flash Gordon, examining its surprising horror undertones and justifying its inclusion in a horror podcast. They trace its complex production, from Dino De Laurentiis turning down George Lucas to its camp style influenced by 1960s Batman. The episode features deep dives into its legendary cast, Queen's revolutionary soundtrack, and highlights the film's visually stunning yet chaotic narrative that has cemented its place as a sci-fi classic.
The hosts celebrate Hammer's 1966 classic, "The Plague of the Zombies," discussing its unique production, shared sets with "The Reptile," and the memorable cast, including Andre Morell and John Carson. They highlight the film's ahead-of-its-time social commentary, particularly its depiction of class warfare and the economic exploitation leading to zombie creation, drawing parallels to "The Wicker Man." The discussion also touches on the film's groundbreaking horror elements, controversial racial coding, and enduring legacy within British horror cinema.
This episode offers a critical deep dive into the 1997 sci-fi horror film Event Horizon, directed by Paul W. S. Anderson. The hosts meticulously analyze its rushed production, the controversial "hell" footage, and the distinctive Gothic-inspired ship design. They also scrutinize the film's reliance on tropes from superior films like Alien and The Shining, discuss the cast's performances, and debate its lasting cult status while acknowledging its script and narrative shortcomings.
Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970). We’re back to Hammer Horror, back to Christopher Lee, and back to Dracula. In this episode of General Witchfinders , we sink our teeth into Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970), the fifth official film in Hammer’s Dracula series and our sixth Hammer Dracula review to date. You can find links to all previous vampire escapades at https://tinyurl.com/Witchdrac . This British gothic horror classic, directed by Peter Sasdy and written by Hammer regular Anthony Hinds (u...
In this episode of General Witchfinders , we revisit one of the most unsettling and prophetic dramas ever broadcast by the BBC – Survivors (1975), created by Terry Nation , the man behind the Daleks and Blake’s 7 . Specifically, we’re talking about The Fourth Horseman , the chilling first episode of this 1970s British post-apocalyptic classic . 💀 Trigger warning / content note : this episode contains discussion of global pandemics, mass death, and social collapse. If the subject feels a little ...
This episode of General Witchfinders dives into the 2007 sequel 28 Weeks Later, exploring its production, cast, and brutal narrative. The hosts discuss its differences from 28 Days Later, the intense opening sequence, plot holes, and memorable, terrifying scenes. They also share listener feedback and give their final scores.
The General Witchfinders delve into the 1970 BBC sci-fi series Doomwatch, focusing on the episode "Tomorrow, the Rat." They discuss the show's premise of tackling scientific threats, its creators (responsible for Doctor Who's Cybermen), and its surprisingly strong connection to James Herbert's horror novel "The Rats." The hosts analyze the episode's highbrow dialogue, its depiction of genetic experiments, and its famously grim and shocking conclusion involving intelligent, man-eating rats.
The hosts delve into Tigon British Film Productions with a focus on "The Creeping Flesh" (1973), starring Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. They discuss Freddie Francis's direction, the film's themes of insanity and evil, and its connections to other horror films. Ultimately, they debate its merits and its bizarre twist ending.
The General Witchfinders delve into Hammer's "Hands of the Ripper," exploring its plot, cast, and themes, including discussions on Victorian horror, psychiatric elements, and the film's unique place within the Hammer filmography. They also discuss the director and cast's other works, as well as its successes and failures in capturing the terror of Jack the Ripper, including tangents related to football and Jeremy Brett. They conclude with overall ratings and a preview of their next episode.
The General Witchfinders explore Nicholas Lyndhurst's career with a deep dive into the sitcom Goodnight Sweetheart, focusing on time travel and horror elements, along with a review of Rosemary Timperley's radio drama Channel Crossing. They analyze Lyndhurst's roles, discuss the show's themes, and debate the effectiveness of the horror aspects.
It’s 17th February 1964 – You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ by The Righteous Brothers is at number one in the UK. Sir Alec Douglas-Home is Prime Minister, Beatlemania has erupted in the United States, Southampton has been granted city status (can you tell this script was running short?), and the Channel Tunnel Agreement was signed, with an estimated completion time of five years (though it would actually take 30). Meanwhile, at the cinema, released as a double feature with The Curse of the Mummy's...
The original run of A Ghost Story for Christmas aired on the BBC from 1971 to 1978, bringing classic ghost stories to television and keeping alive the tradition of sharing supernatural tales during the Christmas season. In our journey through the series, we’ve covered A Warning to the Curious and The Signalman in Episode 21, Whistle and I’ll Come to You and Stigma in Episode 32, and The Stalls of Barchester alongside The Treasure of Abbot Thomas in Episodes 41a and 41b. Just five days ago, on Ch...
A Ghost Story for Christmas is a series of annual British short films first broadcast on BBC One from 1971 to 1978, and sporadically revived by the BBC since 2005. With one exception, the original films were directed by Lawrence Gordon Clark and shot on 16 mm color film. The series aimed to adapt classic ghost stories for television, echoing the tradition of telling supernatural tales at Christmas. So far, we’ve covered A Warning to the Curious and The Signalman in Episode 21, Whistle and I’ll C...
Captain Kronos – Vampire Hunter is a 1974 British swashbuckling action horror film, written and directed by Brian Clemens in his directorial debut. Clemens was celebrated for his work as a screenwriter, particularly for his contributions to British television series. Prior to Captain Kronos , he wrote and produced Dr. Jekyll and Sister Hyde for Hammer. Other films he wrote that fall into and circle around our areas of interest include And Soon the Darkness (which he wrote with Dalek creator Terr...
The Dæmons is the final story in the eighth season of Doctor Who , with Jon Pertwee playing the eponymous hero (see episode 48 covering The House That Dripped Blood for some fantastic Pertrivia). It aired over five weeks on BBC1 from 22 May to 19 June 1971. In The Dæmons , the Master, played by Roger Delgado, awakens the ancient horned alien Azal, hoping to gain his immense power. Delgado, a close friend of Pertwee, worked extensively on stage, TV, film, and radio. His work included the BBC’s Qu...
This time, we listened to and read Ringing the Changes by Robert Aickman. Robert Fordyce Aickman was an English conservationist and writer. As a conservationist, he played a key role in preserving and restoring England's inland canal system. As a writer, he is best known for his supernatural fiction, which he described as "strange stories." On his mother’s side, Aickman was the grandson of the prolific Victorian novelist Richard Marsh. Marsh is known for his occult thriller The Beetle , a book a...
"The House That Dripped Blood" is a 1971 British anthology horror film directed by Peter Duffell and distributed by Amicus Productions. The film is a collection of four short stories, each concerning a series of inhabitants of the eponymous building. Denholm Elliott appears in the segment "Method for Murder," playing Charles Hillyer. He is joined by Joanna Dunham, who portrays Alice Hillyer, Charles' wife. Peter Cushing stars in the segment "Waxworks," portraying Philip Grayson. Joss Ackland (kn...
Inside No. 9 is a British black comedy anthology series that aired from February 5, 2014, to June 12, 2024. Written by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith and produced by the BBC. The only recurring elements are a setting related to the number 9 and a hidden brass hare statue. The show blends comedy, horror, and plot twists. The episode we watched, "The Devil of Christmas," is a Christmas special and the first episode of the third series, aired on December 27, 2016. Directed by Graeme Harper an...
Intro music from: Arthemis - Survivor (Destiny's Child Cover) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjYCOtYjCY4 The Survivor is a 1981 supernatural horror Australian-British co-production directed by David Hemmings and starring Robert Powell, Jenny Agutter, and Joseph Cotten. In Adelaide, Australia (not Eton in the UK as in the original novel written by James Herbert), airline pilot David Keller (played by Powell) survives the crash of his Boeing 747-200, unhurt despite all 300 passengers dying in the...
We return to Hammer Productions with Frankenstein and the Monster From Hell, filmed at Elstree Studios in 1972. It marked the final chapter in the Hammer Frankenstein saga and director Terence Fisher's last film. The Film Features: Peter Cushing in his sixth and final portrayal of Baron Victor Frankenstein, a part he originated in 1957's The Curse of Frankenstein. Despite being 59 and apparently in poor health when he made this film, Cushing still insisted on performing a stunt requiring him to ...
Welcome back to our “Beasts” Double Bill! Last time, we watched "The Dummy" from the infamous anthology series by General Witchfinders hero Nigel Kneale. We now leave the smashed-up movie set of "The Dummy" with its snarling Y-fronts-wearing jilted actor and join Angie and Roger Truscott in their secluded Hampshire home for "During Barty's Party." This episode features the only actual 'beasts' as the main threat: in this case, large, super-evolved, intelligent rats. Elizabeth Sellars plays Angie...
