The Devil and Max Devlin
The Devil and Max Devlin

Movie spotlight

The Devil and Max Devlin

1981
Movie
96 min
English

When Max dies in an accident, he goes straight to Hell. But the Devil Barney makes him an offer: if he manages to get three innocent youths to sell him their souls in the next two months, he may stay on Earth. Max accepts, and returns to Earth, equipped with special powers. However, his task is harder than expected, especially when seven year old Tobi demands that he marry his mother.

Insights

IMDb5.0/10
Director: Steven Hilliard SternGenres: Comedy, Fantasy, Musical

Plot Summary

Max Devlin, a selfish and obnoxious human, dies and is sent to Hell. However, the Devil makes him a deal: he will be given a chance to return to Earth for a limited time to possess the bodies of three people and convince them to sell their souls to the Devil. If he succeeds, he can have his own body back and live forever. If he fails, he will be the Devil's permanent lackey.

Critical Reception

The film was poorly received by critics and audiences alike, often cited for its weak plot, uninspired humor, and questionable morality. It is generally considered one of the least successful films of its era, failing to find a significant audience.

What Reviewers Say

  • Panned for its nonsensical plot and lack of humor.

  • Criticized for its unappealing protagonist and weak moral message.

  • Regarded as a forgettable and poorly executed film.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to the film's limited release and poor reception. Those that exist generally echo critical sentiments, finding the movie to be an unpleasant and tedious viewing experience.

Fun Fact

Despite being a musical, the film only features one original song, 'He's Got the Whole World in His Hands', sung in a new arrangement.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
r96sk

r96sk

I'd recommend <em>'The Devil and Max Devlin'</em>. Of course it is slightly hampered by the fact it's a Disney film, but I feel it manages to leave a mark in what it does tackle in regards to the premise. I felt attached to the dilemma t...

talisencrw

talisencrw

With Bill Cosby's life and career in tatters these days with a myriad of past date-rape accusations against the actor/comedian, I have been intrigued to investigate both his earlier filmic oddities and the comedic albums of his stand-up rou...