Director Ken Russell’s long-controversial film “The Devils” is receiving its first major restoration and will be released in its complete, uncut form. A newly restored 4K version based on Russell’s personal edit from 2004 will debut through Warner Bros. Clockwork, a newly established specialty distribution label. The film marks the inaugural release for this new imprint.
Originally released in 1971, “The Devils” generated significant controversy upon its initial theatrical run due to its graphic depictions of violence and sexual content, earning an X rating at the time. The film features Oscar-winning actress Vanessa Redgrave and Oliver Reed in a horror narrative centered on a 17th-century priest accused of practicing witchcraft. This restored version premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
The NC-17 rated restoration will arrive in U.S. theaters on October 16 for a limited one-week exclusive engagement, with select screenings on 35mm film. The film is also scheduled to screen at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Russell, known for directing films including “Tommy,” “Women in Love,” and “Altered States,” will finally see his original artistic vision reach audiences with this comprehensive restoration.
Originally reported by Variety →
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