Ken Russell’s ‘The Devils’ (1971) Uncensored 4K Restoration

A film so grotesque it was banned from cinemas and was denounced by the Vatican is back and bloodier than ever. Ken Russell’s divisive film, The Devils is getting a hot new 4K restoration and the scenes that were cut for a theatrical release are being put back in earning it a new NC-17 rating. Premiering on October 16th- you don’t want to miss this.

Russell, K. (Director). (1971). The devils [Film]. Warner Bros.

Ken Russell’s films always have highly sexualized themes, violence, and religious imagery. Considered by many to be blasphemous especially when all three elements are combined. Russell’s earlier work which also includes The Devils relies heavily on religious content to explore the ideas of corruption within religious systems of power. These important topics are broached in a violent clash of visual imagery and surrealism in The Devils which make it a somewhat terrifying delight for the eyes. 

My favorite by Russell is his 1988 campy, darkly comedic, folk-horror film, The Lair of the White Worm. This film has an undeniable brighter tone than a film like The Devils and is a good first Ken Russell film to watch. In fact, I would urge anyone who is not familiar with Russell’s style to first watch The Lair of the White Worm then follow it with Altered States to get a solid understand of his range of work. Both of these films are streaming free on Tubi so there’s no excuse not to study up. 

Russell, K. (Director). (1971). The devils [Film]. Warner Bros.

I’m so excited for October 16th. I booked my ticket at AMC a few days ago as soon as they were released. I’ll see yall in the theatre!