Ken Russell’s ‘The Devils’ Set to Scandalize NYFF: Restored Classic Shocks After Cannes, TIFF Debuts

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By : Claude Merritt

Exploring Cinematic Heritage at the 64th New York Film Festival

Film enthusiasts are in for a treat at the upcoming New York Film Festival (NYFF), where a blend of world premieres, historical retrospectives, and restorations will take center stage. Among the highlights is Ken Russell's controversial classic "The Devils,” restored to its former glory and set to provoke audiences once again following its appearances at Cannes and the Toronto International Film Festival.

Revival Highlights and Global Cinema

The NYFF is not merely a showcase for new cinematic works but a celebration of film history through its Revivals section. This year, the festival will screen a mixture of twelve feature films and two collections of rare short films. Notable among these are Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s “Gone to Earth,” restored under the supervision of Martin Scorsese and Thelma Schoonmaker, Powell’s widow. This 1950 Technicolor film, originally re-edited heavily by producer David O. Selznick, will be presented in its intended glory.

Other gems include “Just Like Weather” by Allen Fong, a unique blend of documentary and fiction, and “Nitrate Kisses” by Barbara Hammer. Additionally, the festival will pay homage to the late Malayalam director John Abraham with his final feature, “Report to Mother.”

Restored film reels and archival cinema materials displayed at a film festival
The NYFF celebrates cinematic heritage through restored classics and archival works.

Spotlight on Artavazd Pelechian

A special segment of the festival is devoted to the works of Armenian filmmaker Artavazd Pelechian. Known for his distinctive montage style that weaves together archival and original footage, Pelechian’s films are celebrated yet rarely screened in the U.S. At 88, the director has personally overseen the restoration of his films, which span over three decades. The NYFF will present these in two distinct programs, offering a comprehensive look at his cinematic contributions.

Film director working with archival footage and montage editing materials
Artavazd Pelechian’s distinctive montage style weaves archival and original footage across three decades.

Opening and Closing Nights

The festival opens its doors with “Paper Tiger” and concludes with Ava Duvernay’s “14th.” These bookends encapsulate the festival’s broad thematic range, from intense drama to poignant historical reflection. Also on the schedule are “Godzilla Minus Zero” and “Behemoth!”, both set for their world premieres at NYFF.

A Rich Tapestry of Global Film

Adding to the international flavor, the festival’s Spotlight program will feature standout films from the global circuit. This year’s lineup is robust, ensuring that every attendee, from casual viewers to ardent cinephiles, finds something to appreciate.

The Revivals section, curated by Florence Almozini, Dennis Lim, Dan Sullivan, and Gina Telaroli, promises a rich exploration of cinematic history. Festival attendees can look forward to rediscovering films that have shaped the landscape of global cinema, alongside celebrating new works that push artistic boundaries.

Running from September 25 to October 12, the 64th edition of the NYFF is poised to be a landmark event in the cultural calendar of 2026, blending the past and the present of cinema in a spectacular showcase.

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