The shadow of history is finally being illuminated. After decades hidden from view, Ken Russell’s controversial 1970s masterpiece, The Devils, is set to return to the screen in a spectacular, definitive restoration.
This monumental cinematic revival is spearheaded by the new specialty label, WB Clockwork, which has just unveiled a quick teaser trailer promising an immersive experience of this controversial work. It marks the very first official release under the Clockwork banner, signaling a major event for cinephiles eager to revisit this one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
The film itself delves into the tense political and religious machinations of 17th-century France, exploring how Father Grandier’s efforts to protect the city of Loudun from the corrupt Cardinal Richelieu are undermined by a chilling accusation of witchcraft leveled by a sexually repressed nun. The visual spectacle is grounded in profound tension, featuring an unforgettable cast including Vanessa Redgrave as Sister Jeanne, Oliver Reed as Father Grandier, and Gemma Jones as Madeleine.
The technical brilliance of this re-release is equally staggering. The Picture & Sound restoration was meticulously executed by Warner Bros. Post Production Creative Services, Water Tower Color, and Warner Bros. Sound, utilizing the original negatives to recapture the raw intensity of Russell’s vision. This special 4K restoration recently made its debut at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, celebrating 55 years since the film’s original theatrical debut.
This is more than just a retrospective; it is a monumental re-release that promises to tantalize audiences once again. With its definitive vision based on the private edit Russell constructed in 2004, The Devils is poised to return and deliver a powerfully restored experience for theaters later this year.
Credit: FirstShowing.net
