Stop the screening of the film 'The Devils' in British cinemas
The Issue
Having grown up revering the richness and solemnity of my faith, it was shocking to learn of a film such as ‘The Devils’ being scheduled for screening in British cinemas in October 2026. Described by many critics as graphic and blasphemous, this film not only offends religious sensibilities but also has the potential to stir unnecessary controversy and division within our communities.
‘The Devils,’ directed by Ken Russell, has long been a subject of debate due to its portrayal of religion and historical events in a manner that critics claim distorts truth and offends deeply held beliefs. It features graphic content and sensitive scenes that many in the religious community find extremely distressing. Furthermore, it is widely criticised for its historical inaccuracies and potentially misleading depictions of religious figures, which can misinform viewers and perpetuate very harmful stereotypes.
Cinematic screenings that are accessible to all audiences, including young viewers, must be sensitive to the values and beliefs of the general public. This is especially critical when the content in question has an undeniably provocative nature. While usually artistic expression is essential, it should absolutely NOT come at the cost of disrespecting God , religious faith or undermining beliefs deeply held by communities.
There is also a broader societal concern regarding the increasing desensitization to graphic content. Allowing films like 'The Devils' to be screened can contribute to normalizing such content, undermining efforts towards promoting respectful and inclusive societal values.
Our call to action is for the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) and relevant authorities to reconsider the decision to screen 'The Devils.' We propose that a review is undertaken with religious and community leaders involved to evaluate the film's content and its potential impact.
I urge you to consider the impact on shared values of religious faiths, tolerance and understanding. Join me in calling for a halt to the scheduled screenings of ‘The Devils’.
Sign this petition to help preserve the integrity of religious and community values and to promote responsible media content in our society.
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The Issue
Having grown up revering the richness and solemnity of my faith, it was shocking to learn of a film such as ‘The Devils’ being scheduled for screening in British cinemas in October 2026. Described by many critics as graphic and blasphemous, this film not only offends religious sensibilities but also has the potential to stir unnecessary controversy and division within our communities.
‘The Devils,’ directed by Ken Russell, has long been a subject of debate due to its portrayal of religion and historical events in a manner that critics claim distorts truth and offends deeply held beliefs. It features graphic content and sensitive scenes that many in the religious community find extremely distressing. Furthermore, it is widely criticised for its historical inaccuracies and potentially misleading depictions of religious figures, which can misinform viewers and perpetuate very harmful stereotypes.
Cinematic screenings that are accessible to all audiences, including young viewers, must be sensitive to the values and beliefs of the general public. This is especially critical when the content in question has an undeniably provocative nature. While usually artistic expression is essential, it should absolutely NOT come at the cost of disrespecting God , religious faith or undermining beliefs deeply held by communities.
There is also a broader societal concern regarding the increasing desensitization to graphic content. Allowing films like 'The Devils' to be screened can contribute to normalizing such content, undermining efforts towards promoting respectful and inclusive societal values.
Our call to action is for the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) and relevant authorities to reconsider the decision to screen 'The Devils.' We propose that a review is undertaken with religious and community leaders involved to evaluate the film's content and its potential impact.
I urge you to consider the impact on shared values of religious faiths, tolerance and understanding. Join me in calling for a halt to the scheduled screenings of ‘The Devils’.
Sign this petition to help preserve the integrity of religious and community values and to promote responsible media content in our society.
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Petition created on 18 August 2026