Simon, King of the Witches

Simon, King of the Witches is a low-budget cult classic from 1971, directed by Bruce Kessler, and starring Andrew Prine as the eponymous wizard, Simon Sinestrari. The film delves into the world of counterculture and witchcraft in late 1960s Los Angeles, exploring the themes of power, identity, and isolation.

The story revolves around Simon, a homeless drifter who calls himself a witch and claims to possess supernatural abilities. He is picked up by Lawrence, an underground filmmaker who is fascinated by Simon's occult knowledge and invites him to live in his luxurious mansion. Simon takes up Lawrence's offer, and soon becomes his resident occult consultant and muse, providing him with a new source of inspiration for his art.

As Simon settles into his new lifestyle, he discovers that he is not the only witch in town. He makes friends and enemies among the local witches, and begins to use his powers to gain more control over his life. He soon becomes embroiled in a web of deceit, as he tries to outsmart his enemies and gain more power. In the process, he alienates his new friends and puts himself at risk.

The film has a psychedelic feel to it, with trippy visuals and a surreal soundtrack by Stu Phillips. It also incorporates elements of horror, comedy, and drama, creating a unique blend of genres. The film is notable for its depictions of witchcraft, which were considered taboo at the time, and for its portrayal of counterculture elements such as drug use, sexual liberation, and anti-establishment sentiments.

Andrew Prine delivers a memorable performance as Simon, bringing a sense of vulnerability and charisma to the role. He imbues the character with a sense of depth and complexity, making him a compelling and sympathetic figure. Brenda Scott plays Linda, a sympathetic waitress who takes pity on Simon and becomes his love interest. George Paulsin plays Turk, a young musician who befriends Simon and ends up becoming his apprentice.

Simon, King of the Witches has become a cult classic over the years, with fans praising its avant-garde visuals, trippy soundtrack, and non-conformist themes. While the film has its flaws, such as its occasionally sluggish pacing and uneven tone, it remains an interesting artifact of its time, capturing the counterculture spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The film's themes of power, identity, and isolation still resonate with audiences today, making it a movie worth revisiting.