Courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery

Ken Russell’s Controversial NC-17 Horror Film ‘The Devils’ Sets First Look at Restored Cut – Film News in Brief

by · Variety

Ken Russell‘s controversial film “The Devils” will finally be seen in its original form, as seen in a new trailer for the NC-17 release.

The 4K restoration references Russell’s private edit from 2004 and serves as the first release from Warner Bros. Clockwork, the studio’s new specialty label. The British horror film stars Oscar-winner Vanessa Redgrave and Oliver Reed, telling the story of Urbain Grandier, a 17th-century priest who was accused of witchcraft.

Related Stories

Eli Roth-Executive Produced ‘Burger Night: Luli, Magda & Lore’ Gets All-Female Cast (EXCLUSIVE)

“The Devils” was originally released in 1971 and, at the time, recieved an X rating for its highly violent and sexual content. This restored cut, which world premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, will finally show Russell’s original vision. It is set to play at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.

Russell also directed “Altered States,” “Women in Love” and “Tommy.”

“The Devils” releases in the U.S. on Oct. 16 for an exclusive, one-week engagement with select 35mm screenings.

Tuesday, August 11

Studio Ghibli Fest 2026 Continues With Hayao Miyazaki’s ‘Castle in the Sky’

Tickets are on sale now for Hayao Miyazaki’s “Castle in the Sky.” 

The film, which follows Pazu and Sheeta on their search for the legendary floating castle and the mystery of the luminous crystal, returns to theaters for its 40th anniversary as part of Studio Ghibli Fest. The seven-title lineup also features the 25th anniversary of “Spirited Away.”

“Castle in the Sky” will be shown in both the original Japanese and English-dubbed versions, with the voices of Anna Paquin, James Van Der Beek, Cloris Leachman, Mark Hamill and Mandy Patinkin. Screenings will also include a post-film clip from the featurette “The World of Laputa.”

The Studio Ghibli film’s theatrical run is Aug. 22-26.