For decades, Ken Russell's The Devils has been the holy grail of banned cinema—a film so shocking it was practically erased from official distribution. Now, thanks to a painstaking restoration and a new theatrical run, the devil is finally getting his due. A brand-new 4K trailer has arrived, offering a glimpse of the fully restored, uncut version that will hit theaters for one week only, starting October 16.
Based on Aldous Huxley's non-fiction book The Devils of Loudun and John Whiting's subsequent play, the film plunges into the real-life witch trials that consumed 17th-century France. Set in 1634, the story centers on Father Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed), a charismatic priest who rules the city of Loudun with a mix of charm and defiance. But when he spurns the advances of Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave), the unhinged abbess of the local convent, she retaliates by accusing him of witchcraft—unleashing a wave of Satanic hysteria that spirals into madness.
The new trailer showcases Russell's hypnotic, sacrilegious imagery in stunning 4K clarity, with every frame restored to its original, unexpurgated glory. This marks the first time the director's full vision has been available through official channels in decades. Russell, who passed away in 2011, had long campaigned for his film to be seen as intended, and this restoration honors that wish.
Horror maestro Guillermo del Toro has been one of the film's most vocal champions, and he's over the moon about the new cut. "The restoration of the material is like cleaning the Sistine Chapel with saliva," he said. "It is insane, the epic size of the film—I mean, I've seen it on the big screen in Telluride at a theater—I've never seen the movie until I saw this restoration."
So why has The Devils been so controversial? The film is unflinching in its depiction of violence and sexuality, including extended scenes of torture and masturbation. Combined with Russell's trademark obsession with sacred imagery and his biting critique of religious institutions, it was deemed pornographic by contemporary critics and moral guardians alike. The studio cut numerous scenes before its initial release, much to Russell's distress, and the film has since been nearly impossible to see in its complete form.
This new release comes from Warner Bros.' specialty label Clockwork, and it's the first time the film will carry an NC-17 rating, barring anyone under 17 from entering theaters. It's a bold move that underscores the film's unapologetic nature—and its enduring power to provoke.
For those who've never had the chance to experience The Devils on the big screen, this is a rare opportunity. And for those who have, it's a chance to see the film as Russell always intended. As del Toro suggests, this restoration is nothing short of revelatory.
If you're a fan of R-rated horror trilogies or just love a good cinematic scandal, this is one to mark on your calendar. And if you're curious about other films that have pushed boundaries, check out our list of horror movies that turn everyday tech into nightmares.
Mark your calendars: The Devils will be unleashed in theaters for one week only, starting October 16. Don't miss your chance to see the film that Guillermo del Toro calls "insane"—and that has haunted cinema for over 50 years.
