Controversy ignites curiosity. A film sparking debate instantly demands attention, and history reveals how drastically perceptions can shift. What once went unnoticed can become deeply problematic, or vice versa, as cultural values evolve. ConsiderLife of Brian, now a beloved classic, initially banned in 39 towns for perceived blasphemy.
Even seemingly harmless films undergo reevaluation.Mary Poppins, a staple of family entertainment with a long-held ‘U’ rating, was reclassified as PG in 2024. The reason? An outdated and offensive racial slur present in a single scene with dancing chimney sweeps. This illustrates how even cherished stories aren’t immune to scrutiny.
The Evil Dead, now a cult horror icon, began its life as one of the infamous “video nasties.” These films, distributed on VHS, faced intense criticism and censorship. Director Sam Raimi’s story of a cabin in the woods descending into demonic chaos wasn’t condemned for its supernatural elements, but for its shocking violence and a deeply disturbing scene of sexual assault. It remained banned in the UK until 2000, when an uncut version finally received an 18 certificate.
The title ofI Spit On Your Gravehints at the film’s brutal narrative. Banned upon release for its graphic violence and depiction of rape, it follows a writer’s harrowing quest for revenge against her attackers. Though no longer officially banned, its controversial nature persists, even earning a place onTimemagazine’s list of the most violently disturbing films. The uncut version arrived in 2010, following a censored release in 2001.
Quentin Tarantino’s debut,Reservoir Dogs, launched a legendary career, but its journey to UK audiences was delayed and fraught with obstacles. While celebrated at the 1992 Sundance Film Festival, the film didn’t reach British cinemas until 1993. Even then, its graphic violence led to a ban on home video release until 1995. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of independent cinema.
A Clockwork Orangepresents a unique case. It wasn’t external censorship that led to its withdrawal, but a decision made by its own creator, Stanley Kubrick. Concerned by reports of copycat violence and even threats to his family, Kubrick requested the film be removed from circulation in 1973. It wouldn’t be shown in the UK again until after his death in 1999.
The very title ofThe Texas Chainsaw Massacreforeshadows its gruesome content. After initial screenings, the BBFC banned the film, citing its disturbing exploration of “abnormal psychology” and refusing even an X rating. A local council in Camden, London, defied the ban in 1998, prompting the BBFC to reconsider and eventually release the uncut version with an 18 certificate. It’s now a staple for horror enthusiasts.
Even sequels can court controversy.The Human Centipede 2, a film already operating in extreme horror territory, initially faced refusal from the BBFC. After months of deliberation, it was granted an 18 certificate, but only after the removal of nearly three minutes of footage depicting sexual violence, graphic gore, and obscenity. The uncut version, however, remains available for those who dare to seek it out.
