5 Iconic Films That Were Previously Banned in the UK or US

 

Let’s explore the intriguing world of cinema that pushed boundaries and found themselves banned in either the UK or the US. These films dared to challenge societal norms, provoke outrage, and question the limits of artistic expression. Here are five notable examples:

1. “The Last Temptation of Christ” (1988) 

Synopsis: Martin Scorsese’s controversial masterpiece delves into the inner struggles of Jesus Christ (played by Willem Dafoe). Adapted from Nikos Kazantzakis’ novel, the film imagines an alternate life for Jesus, including romantic entanglements with Mary Magdalene.

Why It Was Banned:

• Religious Outcry: The film faced vehement opposition from religious groups worldwide. The Vatican and Christians criticized its portrayal of Jesus’ human fallibility and intimate relationship with Mary Magdalene.
• Violent Protests: In France, a fundamentalist group threw Molotov cocktails into a theater showing the film, injuring patrons.
• Global Bans: Several countries, including the Philippines and Singapore, still prohibit its screening.

2. “A Clockwork Orange” (1971) 

Synopsis: Stanley Kubrick’s dystopian tale follows Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell), a violent delinquent who undergoes an experimental rehabilitation procedure. The film explores free will, violence, and societal control.

Why It Was Banned:

• Graphic Violence: The film’s brutal scenes of assault, rape, and murder shocked audiences.
• Copycat Crimes: Allegedly, some real-life crimes were inspired by the film, leading to its ban in several countries.
• UK Ban: The film was voluntarily withdrawn from UK distribution by Kubrick himself after copycat incidents.

3. “Cannibal Holocaust” (1980) 

Synopsis: A documentary crew ventures into the Amazon rainforest to film indigenous tribes. Their brutal encounters lead to chaos, violence, and cannibalism. Ruggero Deodato’s film blurs the line between fiction and reality.

Why It Was Banned:

• Animal Cruelty: The film’s realistic animal killings disturbed viewers. Deodato faced legal charges for allegedly murdering actors (which he had to prove false).
• Grisly Scenes: The graphic violence, including impalement and dismemberment, horrified censors.
• UK Ban: The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) banned it for years due to its extreme content.

4. “The Exorcist” (1973) 

Synopsis: William Friedkin’s horror classic revolves around the demonic possession of a young girl, Regan (Linda Blair). Priests attempt an exorcism to save her soul.

Why It Was Banned:

• Religious Controversy: The film’s portrayal of demonic possession and explicit language offended religious sensibilities.
• Audience Reactions: Reports of fainting, vomiting, and panic during screenings fueled its notoriety.
• UK Ban: The BBFC initially banned it, fearing it would disturb audiences. Later, a heavily edited version was released.

5. “Natural Born Killers” (1994) 

Synopsis: Oliver Stone’s satirical crime film follows Mickey (Woody Harrelson) and Mallory (Juliette Lewis), a murderous couple on a killing spree. The media sensationalizes their crimes, blurring reality and fiction.

Why It Was Banned:

• Violence and Sensationalism: The film’s stylized violence, dark humor, and critique of media ethics sparked controversy.
• Copycat Crimes: Some believed it could inspire real-life violence.
• UK Ban: The BBFC initially refused certification, but a heavily edited version was eventually released.

These films challenged norms, provoked outrage, and left indelible marks on cinema history. Whether banned or celebrated, they continue to ignite discussions about artistic freedom and societal boundaries.