Independent genre cinema in the UK has a bold new standard-bearer. Hex Studios, under the direction of Lawrie Brewster, has unveiled its most ambitious film to date, The Reign of Queen Ginnarra. Filmed in Kirkcaldy and the ancient town of Dunfermline, Scotland, this 2.5-hour medieval horror fantasy promises to transport audiences into a richly imagined world of power, faith, and Lovecraftian terror.
Set in the fictional kingdom of Aberon, The Reign of Queen Ginnarra tells the story of a formidable monarch reminiscent of Elizabeth I, whose rule is steeped in mystery, dread, and the dark weight of prophecy. After orchestrating the murder of her father and claiming the throne, Queen Ginnarra finds her grip on power threatened by the escape of her younger brother, Elderon. Fleeing into the wastelands, Elderon becomes the focus of Ginnarra’s obsessive paranoia. Convinced he will one day return to end her reign, she dispatches her son to hunt him down, aided by ancient forces known only as the Old Ones.
As Ginnarra’s rule becomes increasingly consumed by fear and darkness, Elderon must overcome his own sense of failure and exile. Hiding among the scattered survivors of the old regime, he must rally the forgotten and the outcast to challenge the Queen’s terrifying dominion.
The film blends historical and political drama with elements of cosmic horror, resulting in a strikingly original vision that draws on British folklore and early twentieth-century American cosmological horror.
Echoes of Classic British Cinema
Lawrie Brewster drew inspiration from revered British works such as Excalibur and the BBC’s I, Claudius, both celebrated for their operatic tone and cynical political storytelling. John Boorman’s Excalibur (1981) brought Arthurian legend to the screen with a Wagnerian intensity and a striking visual style, blending classic romanticism with brutal medieval realism. Meanwhile, I, Claudius (1976), the critically acclaimed BBC drama, was lauded for its intricate portrayal of Roman imperial intrigue, palace conspiracies, and morally unpredictable characters. Brought to life through masterful performances and sharp dialogue… but not always the most expensive sets.
These works have clearly informed The Reign of Queen Ginnarra not only in tone, but also in its character-based storytelling and savvy use of limited production values.
At the same time, Lawrie Brewster embraced the dread and stylistic richness found in the classic horror films of Hammer and Amicus. The evocative sets, heightened drama, and macabre melodramatic sensibilities provide a Gothic footprint that is competently realised with a retro homage to the golden age of British genre cinema.
Lawrie Brewster explains,
“We aimed to produce something timeless, not reliant on pop culture references or fleeting trends. We looked to the tradition of Romantic Cinema, where story and emotion came first, and films were unafraid to take audiences on epic, immersive journeys inspired by the era of classic British cinema.
It seems that this commitment extended to every facet of the production. From consulting a Franciscan friar on ecclesiastical and political matters, to building elaborate sets and many medieval costumes by hand, the team spared no effort in crafting a believable and atmospheric world. More than 100 artists and craftspeople contributed to the creation of thriving city markets, eerie cult chambers, and regal throne rooms, each designed to present a surprisingly rich tapestry for this indie film’s universe.
Megan Tremethick: A Regal New Force in Indie Horror
At the centre of it all is Megan Tremethick (recently interviewed by Amicus Horror), who stars as Queen Ginnarra opposite Andrew Gourlay’s commendably stoic turn as Elderon. Tremethick portrays a powerful and enigmatic ruler whose shadow looms over the kingdom of Aberon. A breakout talent in her own right, she became the highest-grossing female filmmaker to use the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, with her debut feature film Spoiling You currently in production.
For her portrayal of Ginnarra, Tremethick drew from a wide range of historical sources, from Tudor monarchs to the blood-soaked legend of Countess Elizabeth Báthory. “Understanding how rulers navigated the line between public duty and private torment was key,” she explains. “Ginnarra isn’t simply a villain. She’s a ruler, a survivor, and a mystery… sometimes even to me.”
She is joined by a delectably wicked performance from up-and-coming Scottish actor Dorian Ashbourne, whose sneering delivery evokes comparisons with Mordred or a young Malcolm McDowell. Novarro Ramon, reportedly named in tribute to silent-era icon Ramon Novarro, plays a Machiavellian agent with dangerous games to play, while Sam Barclay delivers a poignant turn as a young monk in the grip of a theosophical crisis, guided by a wise friar portrayed by Adam Barnett.
A commanding presence comes from former face of Scotch Beef, Chris Capaldi, who appears as a world-weary Duke teetering on the edge of rebellion. Stephen Corrall plays a contemptible politician eager to play all sides, alongside Hex Studios regulars Stephen Kerr as a villainous military commander and Michael Daviot as a grotesque high priest.
Tremethick collaborated closely with Lawrie Brewster to develop the Queen’s complex backstory, which includes a dramatic coup in which she overthrows her own father. To achieve the character’s unnerving presence, she practised for days to minimise her facial expressions, cultivating a statuesque stillness that lends Ginnarra a haunting quality on-screen.
Tremethick says,
This was completely unlike any other character I’ve played… I loved the challenge of embodying that restraint.
Lawrie Brewster adds, “Megan is an old soul, and she brings a rare kind of presence — the sort that feels regal and enigmatic without ever trying. When she stepped into the role, it genuinely felt as though she became royalty. The eerie stillness she brought to the character was something special, almost like a kind of imperial Norma Desmond from Sunset Boulevard.”
Filming at Dunfermline Abbey: A Sacred Setting
The production found its majestic backdrop at Dunfermline Abbey, one of Scotland’s most revered historic sites. The Abbey, founded in 1128, has been the burial place for generations of Scottish monarchs, including the legendary Robert the Bruce.
Lawrie Brewster explains,
The grandeur of the Abbey was perfect for Queen Ginnarra’s throne room… we worked closely with the site’s staff to ensure that everything was carried out with full respect.
He continues, “Also… seeing our cast, adorned in full medieval attire, walking through Dunfermline High Street on the wy to set was a surreal and exhilarating experience. The blend of historical reverence with cinematic fantasy created a spectacle that connected with the locals who live there… steeped as their lives are in medieval history.”
Behind the Scenes: Madness and Mishaps
Despite the film’s serious tone and grand themes, the production was peppered with moments of unexpected chaos and hilarity. Managing such a large-scale shoot in historical locations, with a huge cast and elaborate costumes, led to more than a few unforgettable stories.
“One day, young actor Sam Barclay was filming a scene deep in the woods,” recalls Lawrie Brewster. “He was in full monk’s robes, portraying Elias, a young theologian. Out of nowhere, a fluffy white ram appeared. It had escaped its paddock and decided to chase Sam through the trees. He dropped his coffee and ran for his life, only to get snagged on a low-hanging branch. Fortunately the tree did not disrobe him! And, fortunately, the ram lost interest!”
Another memorable event involved veteran actor Stephen Kerr, who plays Kronus, the Queen’s blood-streaked war champion. “Stephen asked to be tied up before filming began, to really get into character,” says Lawrie Brewster. “We obliged, but it happened to be right before the lunch break. Nobody realised he didn’t have a walkie-talkie. So he was left tied to a mast in our dungeon set, covered in fake blood, wondering if we’d all just forgotten him. Thankfully, we found him before all the sausage rolls disappeared.”
Lawrie Brewster reflects, “Directing this film sometimes felt like commanding an actual medieval army. Although I suspect my army would only march if there were deck chairs and snacks at the ready.”
It seems like those mishaps became part of the film’s folklore and contributed to the bond that often ties cast and crew on independent productions. “There’s a certain madness that comes with making something this ambitious,” says Lawrie Brewster. “But if you can laugh, adapt, and still make art, you’re doing it right.”
A Glorious Debut at Romford
Hex Studios was delighted to present The Reign of Queen Ginnarra at its premiere during the Romford Horror Film Festival, one of the UK’s fastest-growing showcases for independent horror. The event brought together fans, veterans, and horror legends, including Pauline Peart (Hammer House of Horror) and Ian McCulloch (Zombie Flesh Eaters, Doctor Who, Poirot), who all turned out to support the film.
The response to the film appears to have been overwhelmingly positive. According to Nerdly, the film is “a brilliant blend of medieval fantasy and Lovecraftian horror that merges compelling storytelling with thrilling action, all while exploring complex themes of power, faith, and morality.” Bloody Flicks described it as “an unsettlingly dark epic,” while respected critic Anton Bitel noted that “the film combines historical and political drama with cosmic horror influences, resulting in a strikingly original vision of British folklore and power.”
“What struck me most was how emotional the audience was,” says Lawrie Brewster.
There were tearful faces during some of the film’s most intense scenes. It proves that independent films, even those made on a fraction of a Hollywood budget, can still deliver powerful, resonant stories.
When Will Ginnarra Be Available?
The Reign of Queen Ginnarra, will soon be released by UK distributor Hex Studios, but that film is only the beginning of what Lawrie Brewster and the British Horror Studio have in store.
The next major project, In the Grip of Terror, marks the return of Amicus Productions, the iconic British horror banner dormant for over 40 years. The film features Golden Globe nominee Jane Merrow and cult actor Laurence R. Harvey, and signals a new era for British horror.
Lawrie Brewster explains,
We don’t believe the future of British horror lies with big corporations or traditional broadcasters. It will come from passionate creators, independent studios, and loyal fans. Through our British Horror Studio project and community, we’re building something lasting. Not just films, but a revolutionary movement that aims to transform the UK indie film scene.
The Reign of Queen Ginnarra will be released by Hex Studios at the end of April. The digital version is available exclusively to pre-order via the official British Horror Studio Patreon, while the Blu-ray edition will be available through Hex Studios’ online store at www.hexmedia.shop at the end of the month.
It is worth noting that Hex Studios was recently featured by both the BBC and The Guardian in coverage highlighting their mission to revive Amicus Productions. Their development of the British Horror Studio project is perhaps their most ambitious undertaking yet, and you can learn more about it and join for free via their official Patreon here.