The Virgin Witch is a British horror film released in 1972. It was directed by Ray Austin and written by Alan J. Wands. The film tells the story of two sisters, Christine and Betty, who are approached by a powerful coven of witches led by Sybil. Sybil offers the sisters a chance to join their coven and become witches themselves. However, in order to join, the sisters must first prove their worth by performing a series of tasks and rituals.
This work was first recorded in 1641 as a work by Titian belonging to the Duke of Medina de las Torres in Naples. It was, however, attributed to Giorgione for centuries until Wilhelm Schmidt again attributed it to Titian in 1904. Most specialists now share Schmidt’s opinion, except for Charles Hope, who considers it the work of an artist yet to be determined, and Paul Holberton, who believes it to be by Domenico Mancini because of certain similarities between it and Mancini’s 1511 altarpiece at the Duomo di Lendinara. Mancini must have known Titian’s work, and that would explain the similarities, but the quality of his painting is significantly inferior to that of the present work. Titian must have painted The Virgin and Child between Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Roch around 1508, possibly for the Scuola di San Antonio at the church of San Rocco in Venice, at a time when his relations with Giorgione were closest (both were then painting frescoes on the facades of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi), which would explain its strong resemblance to the latter’s work.
Gregorio de Gregoriis s monumental wood engraving from 1517, The triumph of Christ, is based on drawings by Titian in which Saint Anthony of Padua clearly resembles his depiction in the present painting, while Saint George here recalls the profile of Saint Roch. From that work Titian drew the symmetrical and pyramidal arrangement of the figures, the setting of the scene in front of a landscape, the inclusion of an architectural structure and the backdrop behind the Virgin.
However, in order to join, the sisters must first prove their worth by performing a series of tasks and rituals. As they delve deeper into the world of witchcraft, Christine and Betty uncover dark secrets and face unimaginable horrors. The film explores themes of power, fear, and temptation.
The Virgin with the Pomegranate
The Virgin with the Pomegranate is an exceptional work painted during one of the key periods in the history of art, in Florence, cradle of the Renaissance, in the first quarter of the fifteenth century, by one of its principal protagonists. Guido di Pietro, known as Fra Angelico and probably trained with Lorenzo Monaco, is first documented as an independent master in 1418. Between that date and 1422 he entered the Dominican convent of San Domenico in Fiesole, for which he painted various works including The Annunciation in the Museo del Prado (P00015). The Virgin with the Pomegranate, executed immediately after that work, reveals Fra Angelico´s knowledge of Masaccio´s Sant´Anna Metterza altarpiece, painted for the Florentine church of Sant´Ambrogio (1423-24) and now in the Uffizi. The painting´s name derives from the pomegranate held by the Virgin, which prefigures Christ´s sacrifice and resurrection. Acquired in Florence in 1817 by Carlos Miguel Fitz-James Stuart y Silva, 14th Duke of Alba de Tormes, it remained in the family since that date.
- See work in timeline
It portrays witchcraft as both alluring and dangerous, with the sisters being tempted by the promise of power and immortality. The characters are forced to confront their own desires and face the consequences of their actions. The Virgin Witch features a strong female cast, with sisters Christine and Betty taking center stage. The film challenges traditional gender roles and expectations, depicting women as powerful and capable beings. It also explores the complexity of female relationships, as the sisters navigate their new world together. The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with critics praising its atmospheric cinematography and performances, but criticizing its uneven pacing and overly sexualized content. It has since gained a small cult following and is considered a classic of 1970s British horror cinema. In conclusion, The Virgin Witch is a compelling and unsettling horror film that delves into the dark world of witchcraft. It offers an intriguing exploration of power, temptation, and the consequences of one's actions. Despite its controversial elements, it remains an important entry in the British horror genre and a testament to the talent of its cast and crew..
Reviews for "The Influence of Hysteria in the Virgin Witch Hunt of 1972"
1. John - 1/5 stars: Virgin Witch 1972 is a complete disappointment. The plot is weak and makes absolutely no sense. The acting is wooden and unconvincing, making it difficult to even care about the characters. The film tries too hard to be edgy and provocative, but it just comes off as trashy and exploitative. The exploitative nature of the film is clearly prioritized over any meaningful storytelling or character development. Overall, I found this movie to be a waste of time and would not recommend it to anyone.
2. Sarah - 2/5 stars: While Virgin Witch 1972 has some interesting elements, such as the stunning visuals and the psychedelic soundtrack, these aspects alone cannot save the film from its numerous flaws. The plot is convoluted and confusing, with many scenes feeling unnecessary and out of place. The pacing is also incredibly slow, making it difficult to stay engaged throughout the film. Additionally, the characters are underdeveloped and lack depth, resulting in a lack of emotional connection. Overall, the potential of Virgin Witch 1972 is squandered by poor execution, making it a rather forgettable viewing experience.
3. Mark - 2/5 stars: I was expecting more from Virgin Witch 1972 given its cult status, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The storyline is disjointed and fails to provide a compelling narrative. The acting is subpar, with many scenes feeling forced and unnatural. The attempts at incorporating elements of horror and eroticism were poorly executed, resulting in a lackluster and unconvincing film. Additionally, the ending left me feeling unsatisfied and confused. Overall, I was disappointed by Virgin Witch 1972 and would not recommend it to others seeking an enjoyable viewing experience.