Devils, The

Synopsis: In seventeenth-century France, Father Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed), uses his powers to protect the city of Loudun from destruction at the hands of the establishment. Soon, he stands accused of the demonic possession of Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave), whose erotic obsession with him fuels the hysterical fervour that sweeps through the convent. This BFI release is of the original UK X-certificate version of Ken Russell’s film based on John Whiting’s stage play and Aldous Huxley’s novel. Hugely controversial at the time the film’s original release was delayed due to an ongoing battle with the BBFC and then subsequently banned by various local authorities. The BFI’s release includes audio commentary by director Ken Russell, film critic Mark Kermode and editor Mike Bradsell, as well as Paul Joyce’s 2002 documentary HELL ON EARTH which looks at the film’s production history and stormy reception and a booklet containing essays and notes by Mark Kermode, Craig Lapper of the BBFC and Sam Ashby.
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Year of release: 1971
Subjects: Film studies; Religious studies
Keywords: censorship; Religion