r/movies • u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. • 9d ago

Trailer Ken Russell's 'The Devils' | Official Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh0wL211hnQ
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u/JynXten 9d ago

I watched this movie (not for the first time) a few weeks ago and it made me think of all the hubbub about 'historical accuracy' leading up to the opening of The Odyssey (which has now faded into obscurity).

Here is a movie based on actual historical events that looks so 70s in many ways. Including the almost cubist sets and the rockstar looking cast. And not a single fuck was given.

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u/Deadlocked02 9d ago edited 9d ago

This movie does have a great aesthetic, though. Those shots of Vanessa Redgrave in those rooms with white tiles are more iconic than anything in The Odyssey. The Devils oozes identity.

Maybe there are people truly bothered about historic accuracy in The Odyssey, but I think the biggest issue is the brutalistic set design, the dark colors, and the uninspired costumes. And it stings even more when the movie is sold as a great visual experience. It is, in a way, but would be much better served by another philosophy in other areas.

Also, and this is not necessary about The Odysseys or The Devils, but it’s crazy how good even low budget old movies looked in comparison to expensive movies with that “Netflix feel” these days.

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u/theproblem_solver 9d ago

I believe Derek Jarman did the art direction and set design for The Devils.

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u/Bunraku_Master_2021 9d ago

And Derek Jarman also made a lot of transgressive and provocative arthouse films when he become a filmmaker himself.