The Demon Headmaster
The Demon Headmaster is a British television series based on the children's books by Gillian Cross of the same name. Made for CBBC, the drama was first broadcast between 1996 and 1998. The first series contained six episodes, and aired twice weekly from 2 to 18 January 1996, the second series contained seven episodes, and aired once a week from 25 September to 6 November 1996, and the third series contained six episodes, and aired twice weekly from 6 to 22 January 1998. School location scenes in the first series were filmed at Hatch End High School, in Hatch End, Harrow, North West London and The Royal Masonic School for Girls in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. Other scenes were filmed around West London and the Vulcan Tower is in fact the Atrium building in Uxbridge. CGI was used to make this building appear on a traffic island close to Warwick Avenue tube station. Some scenes in the later series were filmed in the village of Sarratt, Hertfordshire and other locations in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
Insights
Plot Summary
A group of children discovers that their new, seemingly benevolent headmaster, Mr. Black, is actually an evil alien being who uses mind control to manipulate students and teachers. Led by Dinah, the children form a secret society to uncover the truth and fight back against the alien's influence.
Critical Reception
The Demon Headmaster was a popular and influential children's television series in the UK, praised for its imaginative premise and engaging storytelling. It successfully blended elements of fantasy and science fiction with relatable schoolyard dynamics, becoming a cult favorite among a generation of viewers.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its creative concept of a mind-controlling headmaster.
- Appreciated for its suspenseful plots and the bravery of its young protagonists.
- A memorable and engaging watch for children with a touch of sci-fi adventure.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the show's nostalgic appeal and its ability to captivate young viewers with its unique premise and intriguing villain. Many recall the show fondly as a childhood favorite that offered exciting, albeit slightly spooky, entertainment.
Fun Fact
Terrence Hardiman, who played the titular Demon Headmaster, also famously portrayed the Grand High Witch in the 1990 film adaptation of 'The Witches'.
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