motioninpictures:

The Devils (1971)

Director: Ken Russell

Director of Photography: David Watkin

Aspect Ratio: 2.20:1

For the longest time, Ken Russell’s “The Devils” has been on my watch list. I am not sure what interested me more; perhaps it was the subject matter? Perhaps it was the controversial elements regarding it’s contents and release? For whatever the reason, “The Devils” was a film that I had been seeking out for quite some time.

After some time, I can say that I have finally seen the film. Without getting into too much detail, I can honestly say that “The Devils” is easily one of my favorite films ever made. Much like “The Shining”, “The Devils” is a film that bestowed a certain level of awe in me; an awe that made me replay the film and watch it all over again. The film stuck with me, plain and simple. 

The performances are incredible, especially from Oliver Reed. The sets and overall design are top notch, the cinematography stunning, and the film’s script is damn near perfect. How exactly a film of this subject matter, released in the time it was, was able to get made (and made exceptionally well), is quite remarkable. Almost 50 years later, and Ken Russell’s “The Devils” still packs a dark, eerie, yet beautiful and rewarding punch.