Devils Restored: Russell's Uncensored Masterpiece Returns

A spectacular new 4K restoration of Ken Russell's 1971 masterpiece, "The Devils," is set to captivate audiences. This definitive cut, assembled by Warner Bros. Clockwork from the original camera negative, represents the uncensored version Russell envisioned. The film, which dramatizes alleged demonic possessions in 17th-century Loudun, France, stars Oliver Reed as a priest targeted by religious and political forces, and Vanessa Redgrave as a repressed nun whose claims ignite mass hysteria.

Often described by Russell as his "only political film," "The Devils" faced significant censorship upon its original release. The restored version, rated NC-17, is the first film to carry that rating from Warner Bros. in its 103-year history. Its extraordinary production values, including Derek Jarman's sets and Shirley Russell's costumes, have cemented its status as a singular cinematic achievement.

Following acclaimed festival showings, "Ken Russell's The Devils" will premiere in North American theaters on October 16 for a limited one-week run, including select 35mm screenings. A UK release is scheduled for October 30, marking a significant cinematic event for fans of provocative filmmaking.