Review of The Devils (1971) by Tim H — 31 Jul 2007
My favourite film of all time has got to be The Devils - Ken Russell (Based on the true life events detailed in the book The Devils of Loudon by Aldous Huxley and the play by John Whiting) Oliver Reed is perfectly cast as a womanising 17th century catholic priest who falls in love, stands up for his political beliefs and is put to trial for witchcraft in order to silence his decent.
Plus any film that includes naked frenzied rampaging nuns, the infamous rape of christ scene (you'll not find this in many versions!) flagulation and burning at the stake yet was still sanctioned by the Catholic League of Decency has got to be worth seeing.
Controversial doesn't really cover it but you must remember that the film is based on real events and I think the retelling by Huxley/Whiting and eventualy Ken Russel is repeatedly asserting how current the message still is.
Think Arthur Millers Crucible as a commentary on the communist witch hunts of 1950's America then add a good dose of medieval tortue. Truly powerful stuff!
This review of The Devils (1971) was written by Tim H on 31 Jul 2007.
The Devils has generally received positive reviews.
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