The Devils [DVD]

Experience Ken Russell's bold and brilliant 1971 film, The Devils, presented here in a Special Edition DVD featuring the original UK X certificate version. Set in seventeenth-century France, the story follows the divisive priest Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed) as he attempts to shield the city of Loudun from the establishment, only to be accused of inciting demonic possession in Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave).

• Special Edition DVD presentation of the original UK X certificate version.
• Features magnificent performances by Oliver Reed and Vanessa Redgrave.
• Includes exquisite Derek Jarman sets and a sublimely dissonant score by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies.
• Offers a profound commentary on religious hysteria, political persecution, and the marriage of church and state.
• Presented with English audio (Dolby Digital 1.0).

• Mark Kermode introduction (2012, 2 mins): Newly filmed foreword.
• Audio commentary with Ken Russell, Mark Kermode, Michael Bradsell, and Paul Joyce.
• Hell on Earth (Paul Joyce, 2002, 48 mins): Documentary exploring the film's production and controversial history.
• Director of Devils (1971, 22 mins): Documentary featuring candid Ken Russell interviews and footage of Sir Peter Maxwell Davies recording his score.
• On-set footage with Michael Bradsell commentary (2012, 8 mins).
• On-stage Q&A with Ken Russell (2012, 13 mins): Conversation with Mark Kermode at the NFT in 2004.
• Amelia and the Angel (Ken Russell, 1958, 26 mins): A mix of religious allegory and magical fantasy.
• Original UK trailer.
• Original US trailer.
• Fully illustrated booklet featuring new essays by Mark Kermode, Craig Lapper (BBFC), and editor Michael Bradsell, with original production materials and on-set photographs.

• Format: DVD (2 Items total: 1 DVD-9 + 1 DVD-5)
• Release Date: 19 March 2012
• Run Time: 1 hour and 47 minutes (Main Feature)
• Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 (16x9 enhanced)
• Audio: English (Dolby Digital 1.0)
• Language: English
• Dimensions: 190 x 135 x 14mm
• Weight: 140g
• Director: Ken Russell
• Starring: Oliver Reed, Vanessa Redgrave, Dudley Sutton, Michael Gothard, Murray Melvin

This Special Edition DVD, manufactured by BFI Video, brings the controversial 1971 classic to home video with extensive bonus materials and the definitive presentation of Ken Russell's vision.