The film was an instant lightning rod for controversy, earning an X rating in the UK and USA due to its explicit portrayal of religious figures participating in orgiastic hallucinations and its brutal depictions of political power. The film is often cited as a cautionary tale of studio censorship, where a visionary filmmaker's work was butchered to suit the moral climate of the time, resulting in a demand for a fully restored, official release that still, as of 2026, has not fully materialized. Why Watch It Today? The Devils
Look for versions that explicitly mention the "Rape of Christ" or "The Bone" (masturbation) scenes, which were notoriously cut from the original theatrical releases. Quality Disclaimer: Many of the "uncut" versions on the Internet Archive the devils 1971 internet archive
For those interested in experiencing in its original, uncensored form, the Internet Archive provides a convenient and accessible platform. The film is available to stream online, free of charge, and can be accessed via the Internet Archive's website. The film was an instant lightning rod for
Here is the "story" of how this digital archive helps preserve a piece of forbidden art: The Hunt for the "Hell on Earth" The Devils Look for versions that explicitly mention
Cultural impact and controversy