The Devils 1971 Internet Archive -
Let’s be blunt: Uploading a copyrighted film to the Internet Archive is, technically, copyright infringement. Warner Bros. owns The Devils in perpetuity.
However, the ethical argument for the Archive’s preservation is overwhelming.
Warner Bros. has sent the occasional takedown notice over the years, but the files reappear within days under new titles, slightly altered file hashes. It’s a digital game of whack-a-mole that the studio has largely abandoned.
The Devils isn’t just shock cinema. It’s a howl against power and purity—still so dangerous that studios prefer it forgotten. The Internet Archive, with all its legal gray areas, ensures Russell’s fire keeps burning.
Find it. Watch it. Defend it.
Have you found a working uncut copy on the Archive? Share the hash or link in the comments.
Here’s a properly formatted post for sharing The Devils (1971) from the Internet Archive, suitable for a blog, social media, or forum:
Title: The Devils (1971) – Ken Russell’s Banned Masterpiece Now on the Internet Archive
Body:
For decades, Ken Russell’s The Devils has been one of the most controversial, censored, and sought-after films in cinema history. Based on Aldous Huxley’s The Devils of Loudun, the film stars Oliver Reed as Father Urbain Grandier, a 17th-century priest executed after being falsely accused of demonic possession by a sexually repressed nun (Vanessa Redgrave).
What follows is a thunderous, surreal, and deeply subversive attack on religious hypocrisy, state corruption, and mass hysteria — complete with striking visuals, visceral performances, and a score by Peter Maxwell Davies that drills into your skull.
The film was notoriously cut by Warner Bros. and the BBFC, and to this day, no full uncut version exists in wide circulation. However, a high-quality transfer of the original UK theatrical cut (107 minutes) is preserved and available for streaming/download on the Internet Archive.
🔗 Link: [Insert direct Internet Archive link here]
⚠️ Note: This version is still missing the infamous “Rape of Christ” sequence and some of the most extreme convent scenes (which were destroyed by the studio), but it remains the most complete version legally accessible to the public.
If you care about transgressive cinema, religious horror, or film history, this is essential viewing. Watch it before it disappears again.
#TheDevils1971 #KenRussell #CensoredCinema #InternetArchive #OliverReed
Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971) is a historical horror-drama based on Aldous Huxley’s 1952 book The Devils of Loudun and John Whiting's 1960 play The Devils. The film is widely regarded as one of the most controversial and heavily censored productions in British cinema history. Availability on Internet Archive
Because Warner Bros. has historically restricted the film's distribution and has not officially released a definitive uncut version, the Internet Archive has become a key repository for various versions and supplemental materials.
Film Versions: You can find various snapshots and digital copies of the film, including "Bonus DVD" snapshots and bootleg versions that attempt to restore cut footage like the "Rape of Christ" sequence.
Original Book: The Internet Archive hosts the 1961 text of The Devils, which can be borrowed or streamed.
Related Texts: Other relevant literature, such as Satan in America (1971), is also available for digital viewing. Plot & Core Themes The Setting: 17th-century Loudun, France.
The Protagonist: Father Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed), a charismatic but flawed priest who opposes the political machinations of Cardinal Richelieu.
The Conflict: Sister Jeanne des Anges (Vanessa Redgrave), a sexually repressed nun, becomes obsessed with Grandier. Her hysterical accusations of witchcraft lead to a mass possession of her convent and Grandier's eventual trial and execution.
Themes: The film serves as a satirical commentary on the dangers of religious fanaticism, sexual repression, and the corruption of political power. Notable Production Features
Дьяволы - The Devils - Кен Рассел - 1971 (Bonus DVD)
Дьяволы - The Devils - Кен Рассел - 1971 (Bonus DVD) : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. Internet Archive the devils : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming
Ken Russell’s controversial 1971 film The Devils is frequently accessed via the Internet Archive, which hosts user-uploaded versions, including restored footage that was cut from the original theatrical release. The platform provides various download formats and streaming options for the film, which remains difficult to access through official, high-definition channels due to rights issues. For more details on accessing this content, visit Internet Archive Help Center Internet Archive Help Center
Downloading – A Basic Guide - Internet Archive Help Center
Ken Russell's 1971 masterpiece, The Devils , is famously one of the most controversial and heavily censored films in cinema history. Because it has never received a complete, official high-definition release in many regions (including the US), the Internet Archive has become a vital sanctuary for film historians and fans looking to experience the movie in its most intact form.
Here is the "story" of how this digital archive helps preserve a piece of forbidden art: The Hunt for the "Hell on Earth"
For decades, The Devils existed primarily as a legend. Based on Aldous Huxley’s The Devils of Loudun, the film depicts a 17th-century priest (Oliver Reed) facing a corrupt government and a convent of "possessed" nuns led by a repressed Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave).
Warner Bros. famously "locked the film in a vault" after its initial release, cutting key sequences like the infamous "Rape of Christ" scene. For years, the only way to see the full version was through grainy bootleg VHS tapes passed between collectors. The Role of the Internet Archive
The Internet Archive serves as a digital library that hosts various versions of the film that are otherwise inaccessible. This is "helpful" for several reasons:
Preserving the Director's Vision: Users often upload the "BFI (British Film Institute) Restoration" or fan-assembled "Mark Kermode cuts," which reinsert scenes originally deleted by censors.
Educational Access: Students of film history can study Russell’s avant-garde set designs (created by a young Derek Jarman) and his unique "maximalist" style, which is often omitted from standard streaming platforms.
Cultural Context: Beyond the film itself, the Archive often hosts contemporary reviews, news clippings from the 1971 protests, and documentaries about the film’s production, providing a full picture of its impact. How to Find and Use It
If you are looking for this film on the Internet Archive, keep these tips in mind:
Search Broadly: Use keywords like "The Devils 1971 Ken Russell" or "The Devils Uncut."
Check the Runtime: The standard censored version is roughly 108 minutes. The more complete versions usually run closer to 111 or 113 minutes.
Respect the Medium: These uploads are often "community-contributed." While they provide a way to see the film, they are often used as a stop-gap for fans who are still campaigning for a proper, official 4K physical release.
Ken Russell’s controversial 1971 film The Devils is widely regarded as a masterpiece of British cinema, and, despite its historic censorship, it has found a preservation home on the Internet Archive
Below is a developed piece exploring the film’s legacy, its presence in digital archives, and its notorious production. The Devils (1971): A Masterpiece in the Shadows By [AI] for the digital age Ken Russell’s 1971 cinematic assault, The Devils
, is a film that refuses to stay buried. Based on Aldous Huxley’s book The Devils of Loudun
and John Whiting's play, the film explores political corruption, sexual repression, and religious hysteria in 17th-century France. Starring Oliver Reed as the defiant Urbain Grandier and Vanessa Redgrave as the sexually repressed Mother Superior Jeanne des Anges, the film is a visually shocking, baroque, and undeniably intense experience. The Internet Archive and Digital Preservation
Because Warner Bros. has largely kept the film out of official circulation—specifically the "uncut" version—the Internet Archive
has become an essential, unofficial repository for enthusiasts. Fans have uploaded multiple versions of the film to the platform, including: The Uncut Version:
Often featuring the notorious "Rape of Christ" scene that was forced out by censors in 1971. Documentaries: The documentary
"Hell on Earth: The Desecration and Resurrection of THE DEVILS" the devils 1971 internet archive
is frequently found alongside the film, detailing the battle between Ken Russell and the studio. Restored Prints:
Some uploads are upscale, attempts to bring the 1971 production quality up to modern standards. A Legacy of Contention
The film was an instant lightning rod for controversy, earning an X rating in the UK and USA due to its explicit portrayal of religious figures participating in orgiastic hallucinations and its brutal depictions of political power. The film is often cited as a cautionary tale of studio censorship, where a visionary filmmaker's work was butchered to suit the moral climate of the time, resulting in a demand for a fully restored, official release that still, as of 2026, has not fully materialized. Why Watch It Today? The Devils
remains a "must-see" for fans of horror, historical drama, and avant-garde cinema. It is a loud, chaotic, and beautifully designed piece of art that challenges the viewer, reminding us that true horror is often found in the hands of the pious and the powerful.
For those seeking to explore this film via the Internet Archive, you can search for "The Devils 1971 Ken Russell" to find various versions.
The Internet Archive features several versions and materials related to Ken Russell’s 1971 film The Devils
. Because of the film's history of being banned and heavily edited, the "features" available on the Archive often focus on providing the most complete versions of the movie or rare supplementary content. Key features you can find on the Internet Archive include:
The "Hell on Earth" Documentary: Many uploads include this 2002 documentary, which explores the film's production and its legendary battle with censors.
Restored Footage: Some listings feature "fan-restored" versions that attempt to reintegrate scenes previously cut by the studio (Warner Bros.), such as the infamous "Rape of Christ" sequence.
Full Feature Versions: You can find various cuts of the film, including the UK X-Rated version and the US R-Rated version, which differ significantly in runtime and graphic content.
Original Trailers and Promos: High-quality scans of the original 1971 theatrical trailers and promotional featurettes.
Production Materials: Occasionally, the Archive hosts scanned PDF versions of the original script or vintage press kits.
Note on Availability: Due to copyright restrictions held by Warner Bros., these uploads are frequently removed and re-uploaded. If you are looking for the most stable high-definition version, the BFI Player offers a licensed rental of the film in the UK.
The Devils 1971 Internet Archive: A Gateway to a Cinematic Masterpiece
In the vast expanse of the internet, there exist numerous archives and repositories that house a treasure trove of cinematic gems. One such treasure trove is the Internet Archive, a digital library that provides access to a vast array of films, including some of the most iconic and influential works of cinema history. Among the many films available on the Internet Archive is Robert De Niro's directorial debut, The Devils 1971, a film that has gained a cult following over the years.
The Film: A Brief Overview
The Devils 1971, also known as The Devils, is a 1971 American historical drama film directed by Robert De Niro and produced by De Niro and Stanley Kupers. The film is based on the 1971 novel of the same name by Friedrich Dürrenmatt, which was inspired by the true story of the 17th-century Italian painter, Andrea Mantegna. The film stars Robert De Niro, Peter Boyle, and Basil Dearden.
The story follows a painter, played by De Niro, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and obsessions, set against the backdrop of 17th-century Italy. The film explores themes of love, power, and the darker aspects of human nature, all told through a non-linear narrative that defies traditional storytelling conventions.
The Internet Archive: A Haven for Film Preservation
The Internet Archive is a non-profit digital library that was founded in 1996 with the goal of providing universal access to all knowledge. The organization has been instrumental in preserving and making available a vast array of digital content, including films, music, and texts. The Internet Archive's film collection is particularly noteworthy, with over 15,000 films available for streaming and download.
The Devils 1971 is one of the many films available on the Internet Archive, and its inclusion in the archive is a testament to the organization's commitment to preserving and making accessible cinematic works. The film has been digitized from a 16mm print and is available in a variety of resolutions, including a high-definition version.
The Significance of The Devils 1971
The Devils 1971 is a significant film in the context of cinema history. Not only is it Robert De Niro's directorial debut, but it also marks a turning point in the career of the acclaimed director. The film was shot in 1970, but it was not released until 1976, due to various production issues and concerns about its content.
Despite the challenges surrounding its release, The Devils 1971 has gained a cult following over the years, with many critics and film enthusiasts regarding it as a masterpiece of American cinema. The film's non-linear narrative, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as love, power, and obsession have made it a fascinating and thought-provoking work.
The Impact of The Internet Archive on Film Preservation
The Internet Archive has had a profound impact on film preservation and accessibility. By providing a platform for films to be digitized, preserved, and made available online, the organization has helped to democratize access to cinema and ensure that classic films are not lost to the ages.
The Internet Archive's efforts have also helped to raise awareness about the importance of film preservation. Many films are lost or destroyed each year due to factors such as decay, degradation, and intentional destruction. The Internet Archive's work helps to mitigate these losses by providing a safe and accessible repository for films to be preserved and made available.
The Devils 1971 and Film Restoration
The Internet Archive's preservation of The Devils 1971 is a notable example of the organization's commitment to film restoration. The film has undergone significant restoration work, including digitization from a 16mm print and color correction.
The restoration of The Devils 1971 has helped to ensure that the film is preserved for future generations and that its artistic and historical significance is not lost. The film's inclusion in the Internet Archive's collection also serves as a testament to the organization's dedication to preserving and making accessible cinematic works.
Conclusion
The Internet Archive's The Devils 1971 is a cinematic masterpiece that has gained a cult following over the years. The film's complex narrative, exploration of themes, and Robert De Niro's direction make it a fascinating and thought-provoking work.
The Internet Archive's preservation of The Devils 1971 is a significant achievement, not only for film enthusiasts but also for the broader cultural landscape. The organization's efforts to preserve and make accessible cinematic works ensure that classic films are not lost to the ages and that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from them.
The Devils 1971 is a must-see film that is now more accessible than ever, thanks to the Internet Archive. If you're a film enthusiast, a fan of Robert De Niro, or simply interested in exploring the world of cinema, then The Devils 1971 is definitely worth checking out.
Stream or download The Devils 1971 from the Internet Archive:
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We hope you enjoy watching The Devils 1971 and exploring the vast collection of films available on the Internet Archive.
Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971) is frequently hosted on the Internet Archive due to ongoing suppression and censorship of the film by Warner Bros.. These uploads often feature fan-restored, unofficial cuts attempting to piece together the heavily censored, graphic scenes that the studio has refused to release. For more detailed information on the film's cut scenes and historical context, visit the Wikipedia entry for The Devils.
The Devils 1971 Internet Archive: Uncovering the Controversy and Legacy of Ken Hughes' Infamous Film
In the early 1970s, a film emerged that would spark intense debate, moral outrage, and a prolonged battle with censorship. "The Devils," directed by Ken Hughes and released in 1971, is a historical drama that explores the Salem witch trials and the corruption of power in 17th-century England. The film's graphic content, perceived blasphemy, and themes of mass hysteria and persecution made it a lightning rod for controversy, leading to its initial suppression and subsequent cult following. Today, "The Devils" can be found on the Internet Archive, a digital library that provides access to a vast array of cultural and historical artifacts, including this infamous film.
The Production and Release of "The Devils"
"The Devils" was based on Aldous Huxley's 1952 novel "The Devils of Loudun," which tells the true story of Urbain Grandier, a French Catholic priest accused of witchcraft and consorting with the devil in the early 17th century. Ken Hughes, a British filmmaker, was brought on board to direct the project, which would star Peter Firth as Grandier and Vanessa Redgrave as Sister Jeanne des Anges, a nun who becomes embroiled in the witch hunt.
The film's production was marked by challenges and setbacks. Hughes had a clear vision for the film, which involved recreating the atmosphere of hysteria and fear that characterized the Salem witch trials. The film's script was developed in collaboration with screenwriter Jack Pulman, who worked closely with Hughes to craft a narrative that would balance historical accuracy with artistic license.
When "The Devils" premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 1971, it sparked immediate controversy. Critics were divided, with some praising the film's bold vision and others condemning its perceived blasphemy and graphic content. The film's distributors, EMI, were concerned about the potential backlash and decided to re-edit the film to make it more palatable to a wider audience.
The Cutting of "The Devils"
The original version of "The Devils" was significantly longer than the released cut, clocking in at over 137 minutes. However, EMI demanded that Hughes trim the film to reduce its runtime and mitigate its perceived offensiveness. The edited version, released in 1971, was met with criticism from both critics and audiences, who felt that the film had been compromised. Let’s be blunt: Uploading a copyrighted film to
The controversy surrounding "The Devils" reached a boiling point when the film was slated for release in the United States. The film's distributor, Warner Bros., decided to pull the plug on the release, citing concerns about the film's content and potential protests from Catholic groups.
The Legacy of "The Devils"
Despite its initial controversy, "The Devils" developed a cult following over the years, with many film enthusiasts seeking out the original, uncut version. In 2005, a restored version of the film was released, which closely adhered to Hughes' original vision.
The Internet Archive has played a significant role in preserving the legacy of "The Devils." In 2011, a digitized version of the film was uploaded to the platform, making it widely available to a global audience. The film has since become one of the most popular and enduring titles on the Internet Archive, with thousands of users accessing it every month.
The Significance of "The Devils" on the Internet Archive
The Internet Archive's hosting of "The Devils" is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a platform for users to access a film that was previously difficult to find or expensive to obtain. The film's availability on the Internet Archive has helped to preserve its cultural and historical significance, allowing new generations of film enthusiasts to discover and appreciate its value.
Moreover, the Internet Archive's preservation of "The Devils" highlights the importance of digital archiving in preserving cultural heritage. The platform provides a safe and accessible repository for films, books, and other cultural artifacts, ensuring that they are preserved for future generations.
The Cultural and Historical Context of "The Devils"
"The Devils" is more than just a film; it's a cultural and historical artifact that reflects the tumultuous era in which it was made. Released during a period of social and cultural upheaval, the film tapped into the anxieties and fears of its audience.
The film's themes of persecution, mass hysteria, and the corruption of power resonated with audiences in the early 1970s, who were grappling with the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. The film's portrayal of a society torn apart by fear, superstition, and dogma struck a chord with viewers, who saw parallels between the film's themes and contemporary events.
Conclusion
"The Devils 1971 Internet Archive" represents more than just a film; it's a cultural and historical touchstone that continues to fascinate audiences today. The film's controversy, legacy, and enduring popularity are a testament to its significance as a work of art and a reflection of its time.
The Internet Archive's hosting of "The Devils" ensures that this important film is preserved for future generations, providing a window into the past and a reflection of the cultural and historical context in which it was made. As a cultural artifact, "The Devils" continues to captivate audiences, inspiring new interpretations and reflections on its themes and significance.
For those interested in exploring the film further, the Internet Archive provides a unique opportunity to experience "The Devils" in its entirety, complete with its original vision and artistic intent. As a cultural and historical document, "The Devils" remains a powerful and thought-provoking film that continues to resonate with audiences today.
The Devils 1971 Internet Archive: Uncovering the Controversy and Legacy of Ken Russell's Masterpiece
In 1971, British film director Ken Russell released a cinematic masterpiece that would go on to become one of the most infamous and influential films of all time: The Devils. Based on Aldous Huxley's novel "The Devils of Loudun," Russell's film tells the story of a corrupt and depraved Catholic priest, Father Urbain Grandier, played by Oliver Reed, who becomes embroiled in a web of deceit, lust, and power struggles in 17th-century France. However, due to its graphic content, themes, and perceived blasphemy, The Devils was heavily censored and edited upon its initial release, sparking a controversy that would endure for decades.
Fast-forward to the present day, and The Devils 1971 Internet Archive has become a sought-after treasure trove for film enthusiasts, historians, and scholars. The Internet Archive, a digital library of internet content, has made available the original, uncensored version of Russell's film, providing a unique opportunity for audiences to experience the director's uncompromising vision.
The Making of a Masterpiece
Ken Russell's The Devils was a passion project that had been years in the making. The film was based on Huxley's novel, which was itself inspired by the true story of Grandier, a priest who was accused of witchcraft and executed in 1636. Russell, known for his bold and unflinching approach to filmmaking, was drawn to the story's themes of power, corruption, and the darker aspects of human nature.
The film boasted an impressive cast, including Oliver Reed, Vanessa Redgrave, and Max von Sydow, and was shot on location in France and England. Russell's use of vivid colors, elaborate sets, and innovative cinematography created a dreamlike atmosphere, drawing audiences into the world of 17th-century France.
Censorship and Controversy
Upon its initial release, The Devils was met with widespread criticism and controversy. The film's graphic content, including scenes of torture, violence, and nudity, shocked audiences and sparked outrage among conservative groups. The film was heavily edited and censored in many countries, with some versions featuring significant cuts and changes.
The controversy surrounding The Devils was not limited to its content, however. The film's perceived blasphemy and anti-Catholicism also sparked heated debates, with some critics accusing Russell of promoting a negative and inaccurate portrayal of the Catholic Church.
The Internet Archive: A New Era for The Devils
In the digital age, The Devils 1971 Internet Archive has become a valuable resource for film enthusiasts and scholars. The Internet Archive's online platform provides a unique opportunity for audiences to experience the original, uncensored version of Russell's film, restored to its former glory.
The Internet Archive's preservation of The Devils is a testament to the organization's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting access to historical content. The archive's digital collection of films, books, and other media provides a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and film enthusiasts, allowing them to explore and engage with cultural artifacts in a way that was previously impossible.
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of The Devils extends far beyond its initial controversy. The film has become a cult classic, influencing generations of filmmakers, including Martin Scorsese, David Lynch, and Terry Gilliam. Russell's innovative approach to filmmaking, his use of vivid colors and unconventional narrative structures, has inspired a wide range of artists and filmmakers.
The Devils 1971 Internet Archive serves as a reminder of the power of film to challenge, provoke, and inspire. The film's themes of power, corruption, and the darker aspects of human nature continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless masterpiece that remains as relevant and thought-provoking as ever.
Accessing The Devils 1971 Internet Archive
For those interested in experiencing The Devils in its original, uncensored form, the Internet Archive provides a convenient and accessible platform. The film is available to stream online, free of charge, and can be accessed via the Internet Archive's website.
In addition to the film itself, the Internet Archive also provides a wealth of supplementary materials, including behind-the-scenes photographs, reviews, and interviews with the cast and crew. These resources offer a unique insight into the making of The Devils, providing a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the cultural context in which the film was made.
Conclusion
The Devils 1971 Internet Archive is a cultural treasure that provides a unique opportunity for audiences to experience a cinematic masterpiece in its original, uncensored form. The film's controversy, legacy, and influence are a testament to the power of film to challenge, provoke, and inspire. As a cultural artifact, The Devils continues to fascinate and disturb audiences, offering a glimpse into the darker aspects of human nature and the complexities of the human condition.
The Internet Archive's preservation of The Devils is a valuable resource for film enthusiasts, scholars, and researchers, providing a unique window into the cultural and historical context in which the film was made. As a platform for cultural preservation and promotion, the Internet Archive serves as a model for the future of digital archiving and preservation.
For those interested in exploring the world of The Devils, the Internet Archive provides a comprehensive and accessible platform. Whether you're a film enthusiast, scholar, or simply curious about the controversy surrounding The Devils, the Internet Archive offers a unique opportunity to engage with a cultural masterpiece that continues to fascinate and disturb audiences to this day.
Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971) is widely regarded as one of the most controversial and heavily censored films in cinema history The Other Folk
. Because Warner Bros. has famously refused to release the full uncut version on modern physical media or streaming services, the Internet Archive
has historically been a critical resource for fans seeking preserved "bootleg" or uncut versions of the film Availability on Internet Archive Archived Versions
: Various uploads have appeared on the site, often featuring the "Complete Uncut Extended Version" which includes infamous censored scenes like the "Rape of Christ" and the "femur scene" Removal Issues
: Users frequently report that these versions are periodically removed due to copyright or content flags, making them "lost" or intermittently available Restoration Efforts
: Some entries on the archive include fan-made upscales and restorations aimed at providing better visual quality than the older, grainy bootlegs Documentaries
: Educational content related to the film, such as the documentary
Hell on Earth: The Desecration and Resurrection of THE DEVILS , has also been hosted there
"The Devil's 1971" refers to the 1971 film "The Devils" directed by Ken Russell, which is an adaptation of Aldous Huxley's novel "The Devils of Loudun". The film stars Oliver Reed and Vanessa Redgrave.
The Internet Archive is a digital library that provides access to a wide range of content, including films, music, and books. In 2017, a restored version of "The Devils" (1971) was uploaded to the Internet Archive, allowing users to stream the film online for free.
Here are some interesting facts about "The Devils" (1971) and its presence on the Internet Archive: Warner Bros
Streaming "The Devils" (1971) on the Internet Archive provides an opportunity for film enthusiasts to experience this cult classic, which is considered one of the most influential and groundbreaking films of all time.
Ken Russell’s 1971 film The Devils is a widely suppressed cinematic masterpiece that explores the intersection of political power, religious hysteria, and institutional violence during the 1634 Loudun possessions. Known for its confrontational "aesthetic of excess" and brutalist design, the film has endured decades of censorship and studio-mandated cuts. For a comprehensive analysis, see Deep Focus Review.
A search for "the devils 1971 internet archive" typically yields:
⚠️ Note: Uploads come and go due to copyright flags. If a link is dead, search again for “Ken Russell The Devils uncut” or check the film’s dedicated fan archives.
As of today, searching "The Devils 1971" on the Internet Archive yields multiple versions, each a testament to the film’s chaotic preservation history:
Crucially: None of these versions are official. They are digital ghosts, patched together by obsessive fans using scanning equipment, codecs, and cloud storage. The Internet Archive hosts them without pre-emptive takedown, operating under a "notice and takedown" policy. Warner Bros. has, for the most part, looked away—perhaps recognizing that the cost of pursuing these files is higher than the value of a film they refuse to commercially release.
Introduction: The Cursed Masterpiece Ken Russell’s The Devils is not merely a film; it is a historical scar. Based on John Whiting’s play The Devils and Aldous Huxley’s non-fiction book The Devils of Loudun, the film dramatizes the 1634 persecution of Father Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed). In Russell’s hands, it becomes a punk-rock opera of religious hysteria, state-sanctioned sadism, and sexual mania. Upon release, it was banned, cut, censored, and effectively excommunicated by Warner Bros. For decades, it has been a holy grail of “lost cinema”—unavailable on official Blu-ray in its uncut form, and often reduced to grainy VHS rips.
This is why the Internet Archive’s copy of The Devils is not just a file; it is an act of cinematic archaeology.
The Print: A Flawed Testament The version hosted on the Internet Archive is typically a standard-definition rip (often around 1.5–2 GB), sourced from the 2004 Warner Bros. DVD (Region 2, UK). This is not the legendary, fully uncut “Rape of Christ” version. That sequence—where possessed nuns desecrate a crucifix and a statue of Christ—remains largely lost to the public domain, existing only in fuzzy 16mm dailies.
What you get: A serviceable, if grimy, anamorphic widescreen transfer. The colors are muted compared to Russell’s intended psychedelic palette (the original prints popped with sickly yellows and blood reds). The audio is Dolby Digital 2.0—clear enough for Oliver Reed’s booming baritone and Peter Maxwell Davies’ screeching, modernist score, but lacking the subsonic terror of a restored surround mix.
Why the Archive Version Matters Despite its technical limitations, the Internet Archive’s copy is the most democratic version of The Devils ever released.
The Film Itself (Performance & Direction) Even in compromised quality, the power of Russell’s direction is undeniable. Oliver Reed’s Grandier is a titan of pride and eros—a priest who loves sex and justice equally. His final scene, walking to the stake with his leg bones crushed, is the stuff of silent-film agony. Vanessa Redgrave as Sister Jeanne—a hunchbacked, necrophiliac prioress who projects her lust onto Grandier—gives a performance that transcends acting. Her contorted, ecstatic writhing during the “exorcisms” is both grotesque and pitiable.
Russell shoots the Loudun convent like a madhouse designed by Goya. The production design (Derek Jarman’s first film credit) replaces period accuracy with brutalist white walls and phallic towers—a blank, sterile canvas for human filth. The orgy sequences are not titillating; they are clinical, terrifying, and drenched in mud.
The Verdict: Preserve or Perish Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 for the Archive copy; 5/5 for the film itself)
Pros:
Cons:
Final Thought: The Devil in the Details The Internet Archive is the perfect purgatory for The Devils. Like the relics of a martyred saint, the film exists here in a state of beautiful decay. It is not the pristine restoration the film deserves (Criterion, where are you?), but it is a vital, functioning copy that keeps Russell’s nightmare alive. If you watch it, do so in a dark room. Turn the volume up. And prepare to have your faith—in cinema, in the church, in humanity—shattered.
Where to find it: Search “The Devils 1971 Ken Russell” on archive.org. Look for the file labeled “The Devils (1971) - UK Theatrical Cut.” Download it. Share it. Warner Bros. won’t.
The Unholy Grail: Hunting Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971) on the Internet Archive
For cinephiles and horror buffs, few titles carry as much weight—or as much baggage—as Ken Russell’s The Devils
(1971). Decades after its release, this masterpiece of religious hysteria and political corruption remains one of the most censored films in history. If you've spent any time searching for it, you know the struggle: it's rarely on streaming, the DVDs are out of print, and a "definitive" version is the stuff of legend.
This is why the Internet Archive has become the digital cathedral for those seeking the lost, the banned, and the "uncut". Why is The Devils So Hard to Find?
Before diving into the digital archives, you have to understand the "why." Based on Aldous Huxley’s The Devils of Loudun, the film stars Oliver Reed as Father Urbain Grandier and Vanessa Redgrave as the repressed Sister Jeanne des Anges.
Upon its release, it was met with immediate outrage for its "Holy Trinity" of intense violence, sexuality, and religious themes.
The Censorship: Warner Bros. and various international boards hacked the film to pieces.
The "Lost" Footage: Famous deleted sequences, like the infamous "Rape of Christ" scene, were thought lost until critic Mark Kermode helped locate them in a warehouse in 2002.
The Studio Block: Despite a 2004 reconstruction by the BFI, Warner Bros. has historically refused to allow a full, official release of the director’s cut. The Role of the Internet Archive
Because of this corporate suppression, the Internet Archive has become a vital repository for various versions of the film that are otherwise inaccessible. What You’ll Find There
Users frequently upload "fan-restored" or "uncut" versions that attempt to stitch the deleted scenes back into the theatrical cut.
The "Uncut" Versions: You can often find uploads labeled as "Complete Uncut Extended Version," which typically include the "Rape of Christ" and "Grandier’s Bone" scenes.
Documentaries: The Archive often hosts essential context, such as the documentary Hell on Earth: The Desecration and Resurrection of The Devils, which chronicles the film's troubled history.
International Rips: Because the British and Japanese releases sometimes differ from the American "R-rated" version, users upload these specific regional edits to preserve the film's original framing and intensity. Is it Currently Available?
Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971) remains one of the most controversial and censored films in cinema history. Because Warner Bros. has famously "buried" the film, officially refusing to release the full uncut version on Blu-ray or high-definition streaming, the Internet Archive
has become a primary resource for fans seeking the most complete version possible. Searching the Internet Archive
While many links are frequently removed due to copyright claims, you can often find the film by searching for terms like: "The Devils 1971 uncut" "The Devils Ken Russell" "The Devils 1971 fully restored" What to look for:
The standard censored US version is roughly 108 minutes. The most complete fan reconstructions—often incorporating footage from Mark Kermode’s documentary Hell on Earth —typically run around 111 to 113 minutes Restored Scenes:
Look for versions that explicitly mention the "Rape of Christ" or "The Bone" (masturbation) scenes, which were notoriously cut from the original theatrical releases. Quality Disclaimer: Many of the "uncut" versions on the Internet Archive
are fan edits. These often use high-quality footage for the main film but switch to lower-quality VHS or workprint sources for the previously lost scenes. Official Alternatives
If you prefer a physical or high-quality copy, these are the most reputable official releases:
While official high-definition versions of Ken Russell's The Devils (1971) remain heavily censored or unavailable due to licensing restrictions by Warner Bros., several unofficial and fan-restored versions are frequently posted and archived on the Internet Archive.
The following links and posts on Internet Archive (Archive.org) typically host the film or related restored content:
Extended Fan Edits: Several posts on Archive.org feature fan-reconstructed versions. These often re-insert the infamous banned "Rape of Christ" sequence and other deleted scenes using lower-quality VHS sources.
Restored Versions: You can find listings like the The Devils (1971) 35mm Emulation Regrade, which attempts to provide a more visually faithful experience than standard edited releases.
Bonus Materials & Documentaries: The archive also hosts supplemental files, such as deleted scenes and director interviews, which are essential for viewing the film's "uncut" history. Viewing Options and Context
The "Uncut" Controversy: Warner Bros. has famously refused to release the full director's cut, specifically citing the "distasteful tonality" of sequences like the "Rape of Christ".
Official Releases: The BFI DVD release is considered the best official source, though it still lacks the most extreme sequences found in fan edits.
Streaming: The film occasionally appears on the Criterion Channel or Shudder, usually in its UK theatrical "X" certificate version.
Watch this breakdown of the ongoing censorship struggles and why the full uncut version remains elusive on standard platforms: Kermode Uncut: What To Do About The Devils kermodeandmayo YouTube• Dec 16, 2014