19.03.25, 20:30, The Devil Rides Out (1968)

No exorcism is equal to the dark tangle of cult film festival Offscreen. This time we let their perverse programming talent take over our Weird Wednesday with The Devil Rides Out. This top shelf Gothic horror struck a stake through the hearts of many a competitor in the 1960s. Having already added werewolves, vampires and mummies to his record of achievements, director Terence Fisher this time lauds satanic cult leaders and the prince of darkness himself. Unlike other Hammer siblings, however, the film abandons the more carnal sins of the genre for an atmospheric plunge into a realm of evil.

At the centre is Christopher Lee in a rare heroic role as Duke de Richleau. This rehabilitated Dracula scours many a mysterious mansion for pentagram traces and comes on the trail of a secret society with plans to send the devil on a house call. Insistent shadow play and claustrophobic camera use elevate the plot from its pulp roots and manage to evoke a sinister atmosphere that captivates even modern viewers. In turn, the film's Boy Scout morality makes you giggle out of campy delight. Three Hail Marys and one Our Father for those who are not convinced afterwards.