Ken Russell’s ‘The Devils’ Feels More Relevant Than It Did 55 Years Ago. That’s Because It’s About a World Gone Mad
I’m an ardent fan of Ken Russell, yet I always considered “The Devils” to be a transgressive novelty: a voluptuous exercise in extreme blasphemy and extreme horror. No doubt: It’s both those things. Yet I didn’t think it was anything more than that. (For me, that was enough.) Whe
The reappraisal of Ken Russell's "The Devils" as a film that feels more relevant today than it did 55 years ago is a testament to the timelessness of its themes and the prescience of its director. Russell's work often pushed boundaries, and "The Devils" is no exception, tackling topics like hysteria, paranoia, and the dangers of unchecked power.
The film's exploration of a world gone mad, where fear and superstition lead to chaos and destruction, resonates deeply in today's climate of social media-fueled anxiety and polarization. The Devils' portrayal of a society in which critical thinking and reason are sacrificed at the altar of dogma and fear is eerily familiar. As such, it's no wonder that the film feels more relevant now than ever.
What's next to watch is how Russell's oeuvre continues to influence contemporary filmmakers and artists, and whether "The Devils" will inspire a new wave of creative works that tackle similarly pressing themes. Additionally, with the ongoing conversation about the role of provocative art in sparking cultural dialogue, it's worth keeping an eye on how "The Devils" will be reevaluated and reinterpreted by new audiences, and what insights it might offer into our current moment.
Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.