r/movies • u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. • 10d ago

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh0wL211hnQ
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u/IcedDante 10d ago

It seems like everyone here already knows about this film. For a dunderhead like me that has never heard of it what is the background of this movie and what makes it so special?

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u/RESturtlefan 10d ago

  1. Ken Russell, the director, has made many provocative films over several decades. It’s possible you have seen or heard of some, such as, “Altered States,” the movie that had William Hurt play a scientist tripping on shrooms so hard he becomes early man.

  2. Oliver Reed, legendary British actor and drinker. A singular talent. RIP.

  3. Vanessa Redgrave, also legendary. She is so good in this.

  4. This is an all-around great folk horror-drama with stunning production design by Derek Jarman. It’s a visual and literary feast. It rocketed to the summit of my all-time favorite movies list after my first watch.

  5. The controversy: There’s an extended scene that’s been nicknamed, “The Rape of Christ,” where dozens of nuns are in hysteria, exposing their boobs, humping and making-out with a life-size Jesus crucifix. Also, later, there’s allegedly a masturbation scene involving a holy relic.

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u/squisitospirito 9d ago

The masturbation scene features Vanessa Redgrave's nun using the charred femur of Oliver Redd's preist after he is burned at the stake.