OVERALL: R2

The UK release is the most complete official DVD release but, alas, not the fullest possible (2004) restoration.

There are three versions of The Devils:

(1.) The original uncut UK version (111 minutes NTSC = 107 minutes PAL).

(2.) The cut US R-rated version which removes most of the nudity and some violence also using some alternate footage to replace more explicit shots (108 minutes NTSC = 104 minutes PAL).

(3.) The director’s cut is available as a bootleg and was screened once at the NFT but has had no official release; it restores the infamous Rape of Christ sequence (117 minutes NTSC = 112 minutes PAL).

More information:

(see the melonfarmers discussion) as rough cuts of the film were seen in early 1971 by both Warner executives and the BBFC. Each of whom drew-up their own cuts list which were made prior to the final submission to the BBFC which states a submitted runtime of 112:28 in 24 fps (107:58 in 25 fps), i.e. well over a minute of final cuts were made in addition to likely several minutes of pre-cuts, in particular, to the "Rape of Christ" sequence but which can be seen in the uncut version of the Channel 4 documentary.

CUTS:

• R2 Spain- Warner Home Video - Yes - US R-rated version (~104:00 PAL)
• R2 United Kingdom- British Film Institute - No cuts - The UK version (106:49 PAL)

Do you own a release not listed? Then please visit our forums and let us know!

Comparison added by Nigel_Badnell on 07/03/12
Comparison last updated by Rick_Curzon on 03/04/22

UPDATE LOG:

13/05/13: Added note regarding the commentary on the BFI release
16/03/16: ASIN added.
27/05/18: Added a note in versions.
03/04/22: Updated note.