The Devils 1971 Internet Archive

As one viewer noted on the Archive’s page for the film, “I’d almost given up on finding ANY version of The Devils to stream. I was more than willing to buy or rent it but nope it wasn’t available. Then it occurred to me that some librarian or cinephile might have put it on Internet Archive”.

Often featuring the notorious "Rape of Christ" scene that was forced out by censors in 1971. Documentaries: The documentary

But for the true, profane, complete 1971 vision that made Roger Ebert call it “a film only a demon could have directed”? the devils 1971 internet archive

The film's cult status has also led to a dedicated fan base, with enthusiasts creating fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction inspired by the film. The Internet Archive has played a significant role in sustaining this fan base, providing a platform for fans to share and discover new content.

The Devil's 1971 is a cult classic that has captivated audiences for decades, and its availability on the Internet Archive has opened up new opportunities for fans to experience this eerie and thought-provoking film. As a significant work in the horror genre, The Devil's 1971 offers insights into the evolution of on-screen terror and the cultural landscape of the 1970s. As one viewer noted on the Archive’s page

: 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.

When "The Devils" was first released in 1971, it sparked widespread controversy and outrage. Critics at the time accused Russell of blasphemy, citing the film's depiction of corrupt clergy, graphic exorcisms, and a notorious "eye-gouging" scene. The film's distributors, United Artists, were inundated with complaints, and the film was subsequently edited and re-released in a heavily censored version. This truncated version of "The Devils" became the standard cut of the film for many years, much to the chagrin of Russell, who had intended for his original vision to be seen by audiences. Often featuring the notorious "Rape of Christ" scene

If you're interested in watching "The Devils" for yourself, you can stream the full, restored version on the Internet Archive. Simply visit the archive's website and search for "The Devils 1971" to access the film.

Fueled by Russell’s signature operatic style, the film is an unflinching assault on the senses. It delves into the horrors of demonic possession, the cruelty of religious torture, and the perversion of faith for political ends. With a haunting score by Peter Maxwell Davies and groundbreaking production design by a then-unknown Derek Jarman, The Devils is not merely exploitation but a searing critique of institutional power. As the New York Times described it at the time, it is “an incredibly ambitious film, conceived not simply as historical document but as a visionary work, a prophetic warning of the tenacity of ignorance and superstition”.