There are films that endure, and then there are films that demand to be seen in their complete, uncompromising form. Warner Bros.’ new boutique label, Clockwork, is currently delivering the latter with its highly anticipated release of Ken Russell’s controversial masterpiece, The Devils.
This isn’t just another cinematic offering; it’s a deep dive into 17th-century France, chronicling a society grappling with religious fervor, sexual obsession, and brutal political power. The film follows the troubled trajectory of Father Grandier (played by Oliver Reed), a priest whose radical views ignite a dangerous following among nuns, including the sexually obsessed Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave). When the ambitions of Cardinal Richelieu (Christopher Logue) collide with Grandier’s unorthodox beliefs, a public outcry ensues to erase the priest’s reputation.
The Devils has long existed as a polarizing title. Due to its graphic depiction of violence and sexual content, it faced severe restrictions upon its original debut, earning an X rating in both the United Kingdom and the United States and facing bans in numerous countries. Fans have patiently waited for the opportunity to witness the uncut, raw version, which was previously heavily edited.
Now, Clockwork is making that wait worth it. The label has released a tantalizing teaser trailer, hinting at the powerful psychological horror within this historical epic. Mark Kermode, a renowned British film critic, expressed his astonishment at the project’s realization. He remarked that when he spoke with Clockwork executives in January, they were determined to bring the Director’s Cut to life, noting, “Christian and Spencer walk in, and I go, ‘Right. It’s Warner Bros., so it’s either The Exorcist or The Devils, but I know for a fact that it’s not The Exorcist. So, what do you want to do with The Devils?’ They said, ‘We really want to do the Director’s Cut, and we think it’s happening.’ I was completely speechless.”
To fully immerse audiences in this potent vision, Clockwork has unveiled a stunning 4K restoration. This definitive version is painstakingly assembled from the original camera negative, ensuring historical accuracy while amplifying the film’s visceral impact. The sound has also been remastered from the original English Composite 35mm Mag Film, transferred at 96kHz, along with other original film elements.
The resulting experience runs a robust 1 hour and 54 minutes, offering an expanded view of the story that appeals to those who crave the full narrative scope. This technical precision has been handled by Warner Bros. Post Production Creative Services, Water Tower Color, and Warner Bros. Sound, transforming the previously hard-to-find film into a premium cinematic event.
Get ready for The Devils on October 16th, when this uncensored director’s cut will finally screen in theaters. The wait is over, and the full, uncompromising story of power, faith, and damnation is about to be unleashed.
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Credit: JoBlo
