Warner Bros. Restores Lost 1971 Film 'The Devils' for Theatrical Release

Key points

• The restored film opens in U.S. theaters on October 16 via Warner Bros. specialty label Clockwork, following a 2026 Cannes premiere.
• The controversial sequence, removed by British censors in 1971, depicts nuns desecrating a crucifix and was feared destroyed until film critic Mark Kermode located it in a vault.
• The 114-minute film, starring Oliver Reed and Vanessa Redgrave, is based on true events regarding the persecution of a priest in 17th-century France.
• The restoration was completed after a 2004 reconstruction supervised by Russell, who died before seeing the final 4K version.
• The film is described as a commentary on the 'unholy marriage of church and state' and the use of religion for political power.

Background

The film 'The Devils' was released in 1971 to significant controversy, with censors demanding the removal of a central sequence. Director Ken Russell later believed the footage was destroyed. In 2004, a reconstructed cut was made under Russell's supervision, but it was not widely released. The current restoration is the first official theatrical release of the uncensored version, following decades of the film being difficult to find.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the decades-long effort to recover the footage, highlighting the role of film critic Mark Kermode and Warner Bros. staff in locating the decomposing can. The New York Daily News focuses on the logistical details of the upcoming screenings in New York City and the national release. The People's Movies review praises the film's technical achievement and its relevance to modern issues of misinformation and corruption, while noting the director's camp style. All sources agree on the significance of the restored sequence in completing the director's vision.

Why it matters

The restoration of 'The Devils' is significant as it completes a major work of cinema that was compromised by censorship for over 50 years. The film's themes of religious hypocrisy and political manipulation remain relevant, and its release offers audiences a chance to see the director's intended narrative. The recovery of the lost footage also highlights the importance of film preservation and the potential for rediscovering lost cultural artifacts.

What to watch

The film will be available in U.S. theaters for one week starting October 16. It is also scheduled for release in the UK and Ireland on October 30. The success of the theatrical run may influence future decisions regarding the restoration and release of other censored or lost films.