Short Film Review: “The Witch Hunters Are Coming”
Directed by James Atkins
UK • Comedy • 10 Mins
Parodying daytime reality TV shows that follow local law enforcers, The Witch Hunters are Coming is a brilliant send-up that follows two council employed witch-hunters as they investigate and confront a suspected witch.
Siddarth and his his apprentice, Dorothy from Kansas (armed with a bucket of water, ready to throw at any suspected witches), are following up a tip-off from a concerned citizen who believes that her neighbour is practising witch-craft. Filled with some great pop-culture references, sly humour and some witty social commentary subtly woven in as well, this film packs in a lot of comedic treats into its 10 minute run time.
There’s some fantastic supporting turns, but Marcus Massey as the lead witch hunter is perfect, embodying his character not only with the right amount of pedantic conviction needed for a jobsworth council employee, but within the realms of what TV producers would actually be looking for in the lead for a reality TV show, he’s the fitting candidate, playing up to the camera with knowing looks and over the top antics.
Packaged around seizure inducing graphics, all too earnest music, absurdly over the top narration and shaky, on-the-fly camera work, director James Atkins cleverly chooses to convincingly mimic the ridiculousness of it all rather than mock these elements, helping to root this spoof doc in a reality that in turn makes the send up of other aspects of these types of daytime TV shows all the more delicious.
James Atkins also perfectly judges when to say goodnight. A common problem with mockumentaries (and comedies in general) is they tend to outstay their welcome and over-egg the joke. In this case, it would have actually have been great to see more of The Witch Hunters, but bowing out early is a great choice, helping not to dilute the strong comedic content. Another clever decision James Atkins employs is who the officious council workers targets are. He could have easily have been tempted to tap into something more in the current pop-cultural zeitgeist like zombies, but choosing witches feels more bold & ambitious and shows clear faith in the concept from the director.
The Witch Hunters are Coming is a fun parody with a fast paced, witty script. Great direction and rooted performances enhance the believability of this funny mock-reality TV show.
8/10
The Witch Hunters Are Coming was nominated for Best Documentary at our 2022 film festival.
Reviewed by Philip Pugh
