New Restoration Vs Original: The Devils Trailer

Madison Clarke 09/11/2026

There are some cinematic moments that don’t just tell a story; they demand to be experienced. The restoration of Ken Russell’s controversial 1970s masterpiece, The Devils, is precisely one of those experiences. Now, thanks to the meticulous work of Clockwork, this hidden gem is preparing to shock audiences once again, bringing its raw, uncut vision to life in stunning 4K.

This isn’t just a simple remaster; it’s a complete unveiling. The team focused on bringing Russell’s definitive vision—the edit he privately constructed in 2004—into sharp, breathtaking clarity. The resulting comparison trailer offers a tantalizing look at the transformation, showcasing how much deeper and more visceral the film’s core conflict truly is when viewed in its restored form.

The weight of history hangs heavy over the frame. Set in 17th-century France, the film delves into a dangerous moral landscape where Father Grandier’s efforts to protect the city of Loudun from the corrupt Cardinal Richelieu are threatened by a stark accusation of witchcraft. The dramatic tension is anchored by an unforgettable cast, featuring performances from Vanessa Redgrave as Sister Jeanne, Oliver Reed as Father Grandier, and Gemma Jones as Madeleine.

The sheer scale of the effort involved is staggering. Clockwork painstakingly restored over 164,472 frames of 35mm film, breathing vibrant, newly illuminated life back into the original footage. This restoration elevates the viewing experience from a historical curiosity to a truly immersive, unforgettable cinematic event.

The profound impact of this work is echoed by some of the industry’s most celebrated minds. As Guillermo del Toro famously remarked, “The restoration of the material is like cleaning the Sistine Chapel with saliva. I’ve never seen the movie until I saw this restoration.” It perfectly captures the magical alchemy that occurs when a classic is meticulously brought back to the surface.

Having already premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and been shown at Stiges & TIFF, the restored version of The Devils is now poised for its grand debut. Fans will get to witness this controversial, one-of-a-kind masterpiece in its definitive form, promising a viewing experience that is both deeply unsettling and undeniably glorious.