Ken Russell’s 1971 Controversy Returns as a Restored Masterpiece

Key points

• The restoration includes censored sequences, such as naked nuns on a crucifix and a scene involving Vanessa Redgrave’s character, which were first shown in 2004 but never in top visual quality until now.
• The film was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2026, where it was the most in-demand screening despite having no red carpet or award eligibility.
• The U.S. theatrical release is handled by Warner Bros. Clockwork and is scheduled for a one-week run starting October 16.
• The film stars Oliver Reed as a debauched priest and Vanessa Redgrave as a Mother Superior, focusing on a case of demonic possession among nuns.

Background

This release follows earlier reports from October 8, 2026, which detailed the recovery of the 'Rape of Christ' sequence from a decomposing can in a vault. That footage was approved by Ken Russell before his death and is part of the broader restoration effort that has made the film available for its first official uncensored theatrical showing.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Times emphasizes the film’s evolution from a 1971 scandal to a respected period piece, highlighting the significance of the new restoration in revealing the director’s original vision. The Playlist, in its broader coverage of Ken Russell’s filmography, frames 'The Devils' as a key entry in his essential body of work, alongside films like 'Altered States' and 'Tommy,' suggesting its enduring importance in the canon of British cinema.

Why it matters

The restoration of 'The Devils' is significant because it allows audiences to see the full, uncensored vision of a director whose work was heavily censored in its original release. It also highlights the ongoing effort to recover and preserve lost or censored film material, ensuring that important works of cinema are accessible to modern audiences in their intended form.

What to watch

The film will be available in U.S. theaters for a one-week run starting October 16, 2026. Audiences and film critics will likely assess the impact of the newly restored scenes on the film’s reception and its place in cinema history.