7 Controversial Films That Stirred Up a Storm
Some movies are born to be controversial, challenging audiences and testing their resilience. Others, unintentionally, shake the ground and become the talk of the town for a while. There are also those that aimed to provoke something positive but ended up generating the opposite effect. In this article, we’ll delve into seven controversial films that, in one way or another, sparked controversy.
1. The Interview (2014)
Directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, “The Interview” stars James Franco as a talk show host who, along with his producer, played by Rogen, lands an interview with Kim Jong-un. The film became embroiled in controversy when Sony Pictures was hacked by a North Korean group, leading to threats against theaters screening the movie. Despite the challenges, the film was eventually released, albeit in a limited capacity.
Summary: An American TV host and producer secure an interview with Kim Jong-un, turning their mission into an assassination attempt when contacted by the CIA.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 52 minutes.
2. Titicut Follies (1967)
“Titicut Follies,” a documentary about a Massachusetts psychiatric hospital, was banned for 25 years due to its portrayal of the mistreatment of patients. Directed by Frederick Wiseman, the film was initially suppressed by the government but later gained attention as evidence in legal proceedings against the hospital.
Summary: A documentary highlighting the mistreatment of patients in a Massachusetts psychiatric hospital.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 24 minutes.
3. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” faced censorship in the UK for nearly 30 years following its release. The film, depicting the exploits of a juvenile delinquent, sparked controversy and was blamed for real-life violence, leading to its withdrawal from cinemas. Despite its troubled history, the film has since become a cult classic.
Summary: A portrayal of a juvenile delinquent’s exploits in a dystopian society.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours 16 minutes.
4. Irreversible (2002)
Gaspar Noé’s “Irreversible” caused a stir with its graphic portrayal of violence, particularly a notorious nine-minute rape scene. Despite its controversy, the film garnered attention for its unconventional narrative structure and performances.
Summary: A narrative told in reverse, following two men seeking revenge for a brutal rape.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 37 minutes.
5. The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Martin Scorsese’s “The Last Temptation of Christ” sparked outrage among religious groups for its portrayal of Jesus as a vulnerable and human figure. The film faced protests, boycotts, and even acts of violence upon its release, highlighting the contentious relationship between art and religious sensitivities.
Summary: A portrayal of Jesus as a vulnerable figure, facing opposition from religious groups.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours 44 minutes.
6. Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975)
Pier Paolo Pasolini’s “Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom” remains banned in several countries for its explicit depictions of violence and depravity. Inspired by the writings of the Marquis de Sade, the film serves as a critique of fascist power and continues to shock audiences with its unflinching portrayal of brutality.
Summary: A depiction of extreme violence and depravity, serving as a critique of fascist power.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 57 minutes.
7. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)
Ruggero Deodato’s “Cannibal Holocaust” faced controversy for its graphic violence and alleged use of real killings. The film’s depiction of indigenous tribes and its treatment of animals during production led to legal battles and censorship in various countries.
Summary: A portrayal of graphic violence and exploitation, set in the Amazon rainforest.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes.
These seven films, each in its own way, pushed boundaries and ignited debates, leaving a lasting impact on cinema and society.
You can access these movies and many more through the Stremio program. If you still don’t know what Stremio is, here’s the installation and usage guide:
