Censorship and controversy have always been intertwined with the film industry. Throughout history, many films have been subjected to cuts, bans, and censorship, often sparking debates about freedom of expression and the limits of creativity.
Here, we dive into the Top 15 films that faced the harshest scrutiny, but despite—or perhaps because of—their controversial nature, they have become essential viewing for any cinephile.
List of the 15 most controversial films: cut, censored and banned
15The Interview (2014)
“The Interview,” a comedy about a plot to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, caused a major international incident. The film was pulled from theaters due to threats of violence and was banned in several countries.
The controversy surrounding “The Interview” highlighted the complex relationship between cinema and global politics.
14The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ” was both a commercial success and a lightning rod for controversy. The film faced accusations of anti-Semitism and was banned in some countries for its intense and graphic depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Despite the controversy, it remains a powerful and influential religious film.
13I Spit on Your Grave (1978)
“I Spit on Your Grave” is a notorious exploitation film that was banned in several countries due to its graphic depictions of sexual violence and revenge. The film sparked debates about misogyny and the portrayal of women in cinema.
While still controversial, it has become a significant example of the exploitation genre.
12The Human Centipede (First Sequence) (2009)
This horror film by Tom Six was banned in several countries for its grotesque and disturbing premise. “The Human Centipede” challenges the boundaries of taste and decency, making it one of the most talked-about and reviled films of its time.
Despite the controversy, it has spawned a franchise and remains a unique entry in the horror genre.
11Battle Royale (2000)
“Battle Royale,” directed by Kinji Fukasaku, faced censorship in several countries due to its graphic depiction of teenagers forced to fight to the death. The film was banned in South Korea and other nations for its extreme violence, but it has since gained a massive cult following and inspired numerous other works, including “The Hunger Games.”
10Last Tango in Paris (1972)
Bernardo Bertolucci’s “Last Tango in Paris” was infamous for its explicit sexual content, leading to censorship and bans worldwide. The film sparked intense debate about the portrayal of sex and consent in cinema.
While controversial, it’s also regarded as a landmark in the history of adult-themed films.
9The Devils (1971)
Ken Russell’s “The Devils” is one of the most controversial films ever made, blending historical drama with religious and sexual imagery that shocked audiences. The film was heavily censored, and many versions exist with varying degrees of cuts.
Despite this, it remains a powerful examination of religious fanaticism and the abuse of power.
8Freaks (1932)
Tod Browning’s “Freaks” shocked audiences with its portrayal of real-life circus performers with physical deformities. The film was heavily censored and banned in several countries due to its disturbing content.
Despite this, “Freaks” is now recognized as a pioneering work of horror that challenged societal norms.
7Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975)
“Salo” is a film that remains controversial to this day. Directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini, it graphically portrays the abuse and torture of young people by fascists. The film was banned in numerous countries and remains difficult to watch due to its unflinching depiction of depravity.
However, it’s also considered a powerful political statement on the corrupting influence of power.
6The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Tobe Hooper’s horror classic was initially banned in several countries due to its intense and disturbing content. The low-budget film became infamous for its realistic depiction of violence, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on screen.
Despite the initial backlash, it has become a seminal work in the horror genre.
5Cannibal Holocaust (1980)
Perhaps one of the most controversial films ever made, “Cannibal Holocaust” was banned in over 50 countries for its extreme violence and animal cruelty. The film’s realistic depiction of brutality led to the director being charged with murder until he could prove the actors were alive.
Today, it’s a cult classic in the horror genre, sparking discussions about the ethics of filmmaking.
4Natural Born Killers (1994)
Directed by Oliver Stone, “Natural Born Killers” was criticized for its graphic violence and its perceived glorification of mass murderers. The film was heavily edited to secure an R rating and was banned in several countries.
Despite the backlash, it has been lauded for its critique of media sensationalism and the public’s fascination with violence.
3The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Martin Scorsese’s “The Last Temptation of Christ” was a lightning rod for controversy due to its depiction of Jesus Christ experiencing temptation, including sexual desire. The film was banned in numerous countries and faced widespread protests.
Nevertheless, it is now seen as a profound exploration of faith and the human experience.
2The Exorcist (1973)
“The Exorcist” shocked audiences with its intense and graphic portrayal of a young girl’s possession by a demonic entity. The film faced censorship in multiple countries and was even banned in parts of the UK.
Its disturbing content led to walkouts and faintings during screenings, but it has since been recognized as one of the greatest horror films of all time.
1A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Stanley Kubrick’s dystopian masterpiece was met with significant controversy upon its release due to its graphic depiction of violence and sexual assault. The film was banned in several countries and even withdrawn from UK theaters by Kubrick himself after being linked to copycat crimes.
Despite this, “A Clockwork Orange” remains a critical piece of cinema, exploring the nature of free will and the state’s role in controlling behavior.
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Why These Films Matter
These 15 films, despite—or because of—their controversial nature, have each made a significant impact on the film industry and society as a whole. Whether by pushing the boundaries of what can be shown on screen, sparking important debates, or simply refusing to conform to societal norms, these films have earned their place in cinematic history.
Conclusion
While censorship and bans may have initially hindered these films’ distribution and reception, they ultimately contributed to their legacy. Today, these movies are celebrated not just for their artistry, but for their courage to challenge the status quo. For any film enthusiast, these titles are essential viewing—not just for their content, but for what they represent in the ongoing dialogue between art and society.
