Controversy often serves as a catalyst for discussion, debate, and even dissent. From provocative themes to boundary-pushing visuals, certain films have sparked fervent discourse, challenging societal norms, moral codes, and artistic boundaries. Join us as we embark on a cinematic journey through film history, as we encounter a diverse array of works that have ignited controversy in various forms.
This curated list delves into what we at SAW have determined to be the 100 of the most controversial movies ever made. These films are not merely provocative for the sake of shock value; rather, they offer profound insights into the human condition, societal taboos, and the power of art to challenge, provoke, and inspire. Some have been met with critical acclaim despite their contentious nature, while others have faced censorship, bans, and public outrage.
From groundbreaking classics that pushed the boundaries of cinematic expression to modern masterpieces that continue to polarize audiences, each entry in this list represents a unique chapter in the ongoing evolution of cinema. As we navigate through tales of love, violence, politics, religion, sexuality, and everything in between, we invite you to engage with these films, not only as entertainment but as thought-provoking discussions of art.
50. Midnight Cowboy (1969)
Since it’s rated X, Midnight Cowboy is technically the most critically acclaimed porno of all time. That rating suggests this is filled with non-stop sex so if you rented this expecting to crank one out, you’d be horribly disappointed. Adapted from James Leo Herlihy’s novel of the same name, the film stands as a poignant exploration of friendship, loneliness, and the struggle for human connection in the midst of urban decay. Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City, Midnight Cowboy follows the journey of Joe Buck, a naive and ambitious Texan cowboy, brilliantly portrayed by Jon Voight in his breakout role. Joe arrives in the bustling metropolis with dreams of making it big as a male hustler, but quickly finds himself disillusioned and destitute. Amidst the chaos of the city, Joe forms an unlikely bond with Ratso Rizzo, a small-time con artist played by Dustin Hoffman in a transformative performance. Ratso becomes Joe’s unlikely guide through the harsh realities of urban life, offering both companionship and survival skills in exchange for Joe’s unwitting assistance in his schemes.
The heart of the film lies in the evolving relationship between Joe and Ratso. Despite their differences in background and temperament, the two men find solace and support in each other’s company, forming a deep and enduring friendship amidst the isolation of their respective circumstances. Midnight Cowboy is notable for its groundbreaking portrayal of themes such as sexuality and identity, particularly in its depiction of Joe’s exploration of his own sexual fluidity and Ratso’s unapologetic embrace of his own marginalized existence. The film’s frank and unflinching approach to these subjects was groundbreaking for its time and remains relevant and resonant to this day.
-Sailor Monsoon
49. The Passion of the Christ (2004)
The Passion of the Christ, directed by Mel Gibson and released in 2004, stirred significant controversy and debate due to its graphic and unflinching portrayal of the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life. The film depicts the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, focusing on his betrayal, trial, and brutal crucifixion. Shot in Aramaic, Latin, and Hebrew, and presented with English subtitles, the film immerses viewers in the historical and religious context of Jesus’ suffering.
Criticisms of the film didn’t just revolve around its graphic violence but the perception of anti-Semitic undertones. Some critics and religious leaders accused the film of perpetuating harmful stereotypes and promoting violence against Jews, citing its depiction of Jewish leaders as complicit in Jesus’ death. Additionally, the film’s intense and prolonged scenes of torture and crucifixion sparked debate about the ethics of portraying such brutality on screen. Despite the controversy, The Passion of the Christ was a commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing R-rated films of all time.
-Vincent Kane
48. Pretty Baby (1977)
In the 1980’s, America had an unpleasant obsession with Brooke Shields. It felt like her entire adolescence was a countdown to when she was legal. We collectively sexualized this little girl and the worst example of this is Pretty Baby. Set in the red-light district of New Orleans in the early 20th century, the film revolves around the character of Violet, a twelve-year-old girl living in a brothel with her prostitute mother, Hattie. Its defenders refer to it as a provocative exploration of innocence, sexuality, and the blurred lines between exploitation and empowerment, while others see it as a gross fetish film made for pervs. While I definitely belong in the latter category, it would be a lie to suggest it’s not without it’s strengths. Director Louis Malle deftly navigates these sensitive themes and controversial elements, presenting a nuanced portrayal of Violet’s coming-of-age journey and her relationships with the adults in her life. In addition to his direction, the lead performance by Shields is remarkably mature. She captures both the vulnerability and resilience of a girl thrust into a world of adult desires and expectations. Malle carefully crafts Violet’s character, depicting her as a complex and multifaceted individual who defies easy categorization. It’s not an easy watch but it could’ve been far more exploitive in the hands of a smut peddler.
-Sailor Monsoon
47. Sweet Sweetback’s Baad Asssss Song (1971)
Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song is a groundbreaking independent classic that’s often cited as a pivotal work in the history of American cinema, particularly within the context of the Blaxploitation genre. It’s a visceral and unapologetic exploration of Black identity and resistance in the face of systemic oppression. The film follows the titular character, Sweetback (Peebles), a sex worker turned fugitive, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation after being framed for a crime he did not commit. Melvin Van Peebles wanted to make White America squirm. He exposed them to a raw and uncompromising portrayal of the Black experience in America. From its depiction of police brutality to its exploration of sexual politics and radicalism, Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song confronts viewers with the harsh realities of racism and injustice, while also celebrating the resilience and defiance of its protagonist. The movie is a Molotov cocktail created to burn down the system and while that didn’t happen, it certainly changed things forever.
-Sailor Monsoon
46. Do the Right Thing (1989)
A seminal work in American cinema, confronting issues of race, prejudice, and social injustice with unflinching honesty and urgency, Spike Lee’s, Do the Right Thing, ruffled some feathers upon its release. Set in the sweltering heat of a Brooklyn neighborhood, the film unfolds over the course of a single day, following a diverse cast of characters as tensions escalate between the residents and the predominantly white police force. Lee’s masterful direction and the film’s vibrant visual style capture the simmering racial tensions and the complexities of urban life, immersing viewers in a world where racial inequalities simmer just beneath the surface. Do the Right Thing serves as a powerful reminder of the systemic injustices faced by black communities and the explosive consequences of unchecked prejudice and bigotry.
The film’s portrayal of police brutality, racial profiling, and the corrosive effects of racism struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, sparking intense debate and controversy upon its release. Some praised Lee’s uncompromising approach to addressing issues of race and power, while others condemned the film as divisive and incendiary. The film’s climactic eruption of violence, culminating in the death of a black character at the hands of the police, resonated deeply with audiences and sparked discussions about the roots of racial tensions in America. Do the Right Thing remains a powerful and timely exploration of race relations in America, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about prejudice and inequality while also inspiring hope for change and reconciliation.
-Vincent Kane
45. Un Chien Andalou (1929)
I believe an argument can be made that the razor slicing the eye scene from Un Chien Andalou is the most important movie scene of all time. Even though it’s almost one hundred years old, it is far from the first great movie moment. The rocket in the eye from A Trip to the Moon is definitely the first iconic cinematic image. There are about 50 great movies with great movie moments from the time of that movie’s release to the release of Un Chien Andalou in theaters. Movies were producing all-time great moments since its inception but nowhere in its history has any movie produced as shocking image as a woman getting her eye sliced before or since this film. The collective trauma from that event shaped how art was made from then on. Its impact reverberates through generations, inspiring filmmakers, artists, and intellectuals alike. It’s as shocking now as it was then and works as a great opening to a cinematic nightmare. It literally shocks your system like a bucket of ice water dumped over you and then tosses you into the realm of the surreal. By eschewing traditional narrative conventions and embracing the irrational and the absurd, Buñuel and Dalí tap into the subconscious realm, eliciting feelings of unease, fascination, and wonder. The film’s haunting imagery lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impression that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
-Sailor Monsoon
44. Kids (1995)
Larry Clark’s coming-of-age film serves as a stark contrast to the teenage life offered up by John Hughes in the 80s. It gives a sobering portrayal of urban youth culture that follows a group of teenagers in New York City over the course of a day as they navigate the streets, engage in reckless behavior, and confront issues such as sex, drugs, and violence. Clark’s unflinching direction and the film’s raw, documentary-style aesthetic provide an unfiltered and disturbing look at the lives of these troubled youths. One of the main character’s sole goal throughout the film is to sleep with as many virgins as possible. It was explicit in its depiction of underage sexuality, drug use, and graphic violence. Many felt it exploited its young actors during various sex scenes with some of the actors feeling exploited themselves.
-Vincent Kane
43. Joker (2019)
Joker offers a compelling origin story for the character, delving into the psyche of Arthur Fleck, a mentally unstable man disregarded by society, as he transforms into the infamous clown prince of crime. Joaquin Phoenix’s haunting performance captivated audiences, portraying Arthur’s descent into madness with raw intensity and vulnerability in Todd Philips’ gritty and dark exploration of the iconic DC Comics villain.
Some were upset with Joker primarily due to its depiction of violence and its portrayal of societal issues such as mental illness and social inequality. Some critics expressed concern that the film’s depiction of Arthur’s transformation into the Joker could potentially glamorize or justify violence. Additionally, its dark and nihilistic tone sparked debates about the responsibility of filmmakers in addressing sensitive topics. Despite these controversies, Joker received critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and Phoenix’s mesmerizing performance, earning numerous accolades including an Academy Award for Best Actor. While the film faced scrutiny in some quarters, its thought-provoking exploration of complex themes solidified its status as a significant cultural touchstone in contemporary cinema.
-Vincent Kane
42. I Spit on Your Grave (1978)
Films involving scenes of rape are all over this list with none more infamous than Meir Zarchi’s I Spit on Your Grave. It is a deeply unsettling exploitation film that follows the story of Jennifer Hills, a young writer who is brutally assaulted and raped by a group of men while staying in a remote cabin. Left for dead, Jennifer miraculously survives and seeks brutal revenge on her assailants. It is most known for its graphic and prolonged depictions of sexual violence, as well as its unflinching portrayal of Jennifer’s subsequent acts of vengeance. Due to its extreme content and its portrayal of sexual violence, critics and audiences alike have debated the film’s merits, with some praising it as a powerful statement on the consequences of violence against women and others condemning it as exploitative and misogynistic. The film’s graphic scenes of rape and torture have led to calls for censorship and bans in several countries.
-Vincent Kane
41. Mother! (2017)
Controversy surrounded Mother! due to its provocative and ambiguous narrative, as well as its graphic and disturbing imagery. Some viewers found the film’s exploration of religious and environmental themes thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating, while others criticized it for its excessive violence and nihilistic worldview. Additionally, the film’s allegorical elements and unconventional storytelling divided audiences, with some praising its audacity and originality, while others described it as pretentious garbage.
Aronofsky’s film isn’t easy to categorize as a polarizing and enigmatic cinematic experience as it follows a young woman whose tranquil life with her husband in their secluded home is disrupted by the arrival of unexpected guests. As tensions mount and chaos ensues, the narrative unfolds as a surreal allegory rich with biblical and environmental symbolism. The film was attacked so much that Paramount even released a statement to defend its creativity and “brave” film.
-Vincent Kane
60-51 | 40-31
How many of these controversial movies have you seen? Did you find any of them controversial?