13 Controversial Films That Pushed the Boundaries of Theaters

1. The Birth of a Nation 1915，IMDB Rating: 6.1, IMDB Votes: 26538, ID: 0004972
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The Birth of a Nation, released in 1915, is a landmark in cinema history, yet it’s tainted by its brazen racism. The film was initially banned in many countries due to its explicit images and violence. Despite the controversy, it’s still regarded as a significant piece of cinema.
2. Ultimo tango a Parigi 1972，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 58939, ID: 0070849
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‘Last Tango in Paris’ is a controversial film that explores an anonymous sexual relationship. Its explicit content led to it being banned in several countries. The film’s exploration of relationships and identity to be deeply compelling.
3. Häxan 1922，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 16971, ID: 0013257
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Häxan, released in 1922, is a silent film that explores the history of witchcraft, demonology, and satanism. It was banned in the United States and heavily censored in other countries for its graphic depictions of torture, nudity, and sexual perversion.
4. Scarface 1932，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 30714, ID: 0023427
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Scarface, released in 1932, is a classic gangster film that was considered inappropriate due to its violent content and glorification of crime. It was banned in several cities and states, including Chicago.
5. Ekstase 1933，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 2816, ID: 0022867
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Ekstase is a 1933 film that was banned in the United States and by the Nazis and condemned by the Pope for its nudity and depiction of female sex scenes on screen.
6. Ossessione 1943，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 8362, ID: 0035160
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Luchino Visconti’s ‘Ossessione’ is a gripping crime drama that was banned by the Fascist regime during its initial release. The film’s raw portrayal of passion and betrayal, set against the backdrop of Italian neorealism, is both captivating and unsettling.
7. All Quiet on the Western Front 1930，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 68166, ID: 0020629
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The film ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ is a poignant anti-war movie that was banned in several countries, including Germany, due to its pacifist message. The movie is a moving exploration of the horrors of war and its effects on young soldiers. It is a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the importance of promoting peace.
8. Funny Girl 1968，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 25436, ID: 0062994
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Barbra Streisand’s iconic performance in ‘Funny Girl’ was banned in Egypt due to her co-star Omar Sharif’s Egyptian Muslim background and her vocal support for Israel.
9. Goldfinger 1964，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 203932, ID: 0058150
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The James Bond classic ‘Goldfinger’ was not well received in Israel due to its casting choices. The controversy surrounding the film highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity in casting decisions and the profound impact of geopolitical issues on the film industry.
10. A Clockwork Orange 1971，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 887627, ID: 0066921
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Stanley Kubrick’s ‘A Clockwork Orange’ was banned in several countries due to its graphic violence and controversial themes. The movie is a thought-provoking exploration of free will and social control, but its explicit content is deeply disturbing. The banning of the film reminds us of the fine line between artistic expression and social norms.
11. Life of Brian 1979，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 423336, ID: 0079470
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Monty Python’s ‘Life of Brian’ is a comedic satire that caused significant controversy upon its 1979 release. Despite its ban in several countries, it’s a film that brilliantly uses humor to challenge societal norms and provoke thought.
12. Apocalypse Now 1979，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 716521, ID: 0078788
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‘Apocalypse Now’ is a cinematic masterpiece that faced significant challenges during its production. Its raw portrayal of war led to it being banned in several countries.
13. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 186294, ID: 0072271
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The ‘Texas Chain Saw Massacre’ is a horror classic that was banned in several countries due to its high level of violence. Despite its graphic content, the film’s influence on the horror genre is undeniable.