One of a handful of Jess Franco movies featuring Christopher Lee, all of them quite watchable in their own way. The version I saw had some R-rated inserts with German voiceover that were probably cut from the British release.
Lee plays Judge Jeffries, based on a real historical figure from 17th century England (and a real jerk to boot). Jeffries is loyal to King James II, who is about to get usurped by the famous duo of William and Mary in 1688. This movie focuses on the final days leading up to this big event.
The movie reportedly suffered from too many production notes, as producers from several different countries got involved in shaping the final output. It has some lurid notes of Franco’s Justine, some political intrigue, authentic battle scenes, even some witch hunting. Lee at times seems a little disinterested, but when he is engaged, he really shines through a somewhat murky and muted general tone.
