Devils, The

UK 1971, 107 minutes
Dir. Ken Russell
Rating: [R18] Graphic violence, sexual violence & sex scenes
Genres: Cult / Deviltry, Controversy

Feat. Oliver Reed, Vanessa Redgrave

Aroview: Ken Russell's subversive foray into Catholic guilt is as bold and disturbing as it is brilliant. Amidst the witch trials of medieval France, Oliver Reed incarnates a sensually liberated clergyman whose ethics bring him dangerously close to the bonfire. Derek Jarman designed the sets.

Member Reviews

Average rating (Very Good). Showing 1-7 of 7 member reviews.

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5 stars (Exceptional) This is the maddest and baddest Ken Russell pic, which seems designed, in a way, to outrage movie critics everywhere, and is now truly in need of a proper, uncut release. A very powerful piece of work, but not without its own bizarre sense of humour. ~Hammerscope
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5 stars (Exceptional) ~Regando
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4 stars (Very Good) Its a Ken Russell film. Something "happens" in every scene. The set designs are wonderful and vary from rich to stark. The supporting cast include some interesting casting choices - from the distinctive Murray Melvin to the out of character Brian Murphy ~Tubbs
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5 stars (Exceptional) Every shot is a visual feast full of meaning, Jarman's sets are gorgeous. Ken Russell's most blasphemous and notorious, and powerful film is a must watch. Begging for a re-release. ~trauma_hound412
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5 stars (Exceptional) Release the uncut version, Warner Brother, you cowards! ~Pearce
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5 stars (Exceptional) Shocking and disturbing film that has polarised critics for a long time The version to see is director's cut (117 minutes)rnbut is unavailable at the moment. ~emjay
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2 stars (Good Try) 2/5 - Better to stick to Aldous Huxley's original "The Devils of Loudun" book. In his movie, Ken Russell does not add anything relevant. ~Anonz

DVD Features

Audio Commentary with Ken Russell, Mark Kermode, Michael Bradsell & Paul Joyce.
Ken Russell Short Film: "Amelia and the Angel" (1958, 26-Mins)
"Hell on Earth" - A documentary on the film (2002, 48mins)
"Director of Devils" - documentary with interviews of Ken Russell (1971, 22mins)
On-Set footage (8mins)
On-Stage Q+A with Ken Russell (2004, 13mins)
40 Page Booklet.