58 Controversial Films About Religion and Faith
57 titles
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CalvaryMovie · 2014 · 101m · DramaA kind priest is threatened while speaking in confidence, and then finds himself facing growing darkness. He must fight against these encroaching evil forces.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 2
Discussions with Richard Dawkins, Episode 1: The Four HorsemenMovie · 2008 · 120mRenowned thinkers Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Sam Harris, and Christopher Hitchens engage in a two-hour, unscripted conversation about religion.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.7 - 3
The Brand New TestamentMovie · 2015 · 114m · Comedy, FantasyGod resides in Brussels, but on Earth, he is a morally weak and unpleasant father to his family. His daughter, Ea, is restless and suffocating in their small Brussels apartment until she decides to defy him.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 4
The UnbelieversMovie · 2013 · 77m · DocumentaryScientists Richard Dawkins and Lawrence Krauss journey worldwide to advocate for a scientific perspective and encourage critical examination of religious faith.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5 - 5
Lost SoulsMovie · 2000 · 97m · Horror, Thriller, DramaA young woman discovers a plot to allow the Devil to appear as a human being. To stop this predicted event, she must persuade a renowned New York crime reporter, who doesn't believe in religion, that he is the intended target of the conspiracy.IMDb 4.8TMDB 5.0 - 6
The Final ConflictMovie · 1981 · 108m · Horror, Mystery, ThrillerDamien Thorn is hailed as a corporate hero, leading the U.S. through an economic crisis. He's then appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, a position that secretly allows him to enact a dark biblical prophecy with worldwide consequences. As his plans unfold, Damien confronts his own mortality, coinciding with a celestial event signaling Christ's return. Amidst rising tensions and shifting loyalties, a conflict between good and evil becomes inevitable.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.8 - 7
The OrderMovie · 2003 · 102m · Fantasy, Horror, MysteryFor centuries, a secret Order of priests has operated within the Church. Father Alex Bernier, a priest deemed a renegade, is dispatched to Rome to investigate the puzzling death of a highly respected member of the Order. As a series of disturbingly similar killings occur, Bernier's investigation leads him to confront a level of evil beyond comprehension.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.7 - 8
Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of BeliefMovie · 2015 · 120m · Documentary, TV MovieGOING CLEAR closely examines the experiences of eight former members of the Church of Scientology, revealing the methods used to draw people in and the actions taken in the name of their faith.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 9
Playing Hide and SeekMovie · 2020 · 87mThis documentary recounts the experiences of two brothers who both suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a priest within the Polish Catholic Church.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 10
The BodyMovie · 2001 · 109m · Drama, Mystery, RomanceA skeleton found in a wealthy tomb in Jerusalem shows signs of crucifixion. A gold coin with Pontius Pilate's mark and faint markings on the skull lead investigators to believe the bones may belong to Jesus Christ. As authorities race to confirm the discovery, politicians, religious leaders, extremists, and those who use violence for their goals confront their beliefs and identities, risking everything to uncover the truth.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.5 - 11
Bless the ChildMovie · 2000 · 107m · Drama, Horror, ThrillerMaggie's life changes when her sister Jenna leaves her with her autistic newborn son, Cody, who quickly becomes the daughter Maggie has always wanted. Six years later, Jenna unexpectedly reappears and, with her enigmatic new husband Eric Stark, kidnaps Cody. Though Maggie has no legal claim to Cody, FBI agent John Travis becomes involved when he discovers Cody's birth date matches those of several other recently murdered children.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.3 - 12
The OmenMovie · 1976 · 111m · Horror, ThrillerDiplomat Robert Thorn and his wife suffer a devastating miscarriage and, grieving, adopt an orphaned baby boy. They are unaware of the dark secret surrounding the child: the infant, named Damien, is the son of Satan. As Damien grows, the couple confronts the disturbing truth of raising a demonic child while balancing their lives with diplomacy and faith. The film examines themes of deception, belief, and the conflict between good and evil within an outwardly normal existence.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 13
Deliver Us from EvilMovie · 2014 · 118m · Thriller, Crime, HorrorA disturbing surge of violence grips New York City, baffling troubled NYPD officer Sarchie. He struggles to find a logical explanation for the horrific crimes. But his perspective shifts when a rogue Jesuit priest, Mendoza, suggests demonic possession might be the cause. Sarchie and Mendoza then team up for a desperate fight against a terrifying supernatural evil threatening to overwhelm the city.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 14
Corpus ChristiMovie · 2019 · 116m · DramaA devout 20-year-old with a troubled past is sent to work at a sawmill in a quiet town. Upon arrival, he disguises himself as a priest and unexpectedly becomes the new local minister. His presence offers the community a chance to heal from a tragedy that occurred the previous year.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 15
ClergyMovie · 2018 · 133m · DramaThree Catholic priests share a bond forged in tragedy years ago. Each year, they reunite to commemorate their survival of the event. Lisowski climbs the ranks at a city curia, aspiring to the Vatican. Archbishop Mordowicz, a powerful figure leveraging his political influence, is determined to construct Poland's grandest sanctuary. Father Trybus struggles with personal failings. Father Kukuła, despite his devotion, is losing the faith of his parishioners. New tragedies will soon bring these three priests back together.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.6 - 16
The Two PopesMovie · 2019 · 125m · Drama, HistoryIn 2012, Cardinal Bergoglio asks Pope Benedict for permission to retire. Instead of granting it, Pope Benedict, grappling with scandal and personal uncertainty, calls his sharpest critic – Bergoglio, who will later become Pope Francis – to Rome. The Pope intends to reveal a secret that will profoundly impact the Catholic Church.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 17
The Third MiracleMovie · 1999 · 119m · DramaA quiet priest is sent by the Vatican on an unusual assignment: to investigate miracles surrounding a woman being considered for sainthood. He travels to far-off places, meeting people who deeply believe in these events, each with a powerful story.
As he investigates, the priest questions his own beliefs about faith. His journey explores the line between the sacred and the unbelievable, challenging what people believe and whether a higher power is involved. The film explores spirituality and doubt, telling a compelling story about the meaning of faith and miracles.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.8 - 18
Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the House of GodMovie · 2012 · 106m · DocumentaryAcademy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Alex Gibney (of *Taxi to the Dark Side*) examines the difficult topic of pedophilia within the Catholic Church. The film traces the history of this issue, beginning with the first public protest against clerical sexual abuse in the United States and ultimately reaching the Vatican.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.3 - 19
The Last Temptation of ChristMovie · 1988 · 164m · DramaThis film chronicles the life of Jesus, a carpenter from Judea who discovers he is the son of God. Set against the backdrop of Roman rule, Jesus is drawn into conflict by Judas, but consistently promotes love and peace over violence. As he confronts his divine purpose, Jesus struggles with doubt and faces the immense weight of his destiny.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 20
The RiteMovie · 2011 · 114m · Drama, Thriller, HorrorReluctantly, seminary student Michael Kovak attends exorcism training at the Vatican. In Rome, he encounters an unconventional priest who reveals a hidden, darker aspect of his faith, exposing the devil's influence even within the most sacred grounds.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1 - 21
The Devil and Father AmorthMovie · 2018 · 68m · Documentary, HorrorDirector William Friedkin documents Father Gabriele Amorth, a noted exorcist, as he performs an exorcism on an Italian woman named Cristina. This is the ninth time Cristina has undergone the ritual. Before the filming, she was said to have suffered unexplained behavioral changes and "fits," which intensified during Christian holidays.IMDb 4.6TMDB 5.1 - 22
ConstantineMovie · 2005 · 121m · Fantasy, Action, HorrorJohn Constantine, a man deeply familiar with the underworld, joins forces with a police officer investigating the suspicious death of her twin sister. Their investigation leads them into a hidden realm of demons and angels lurking beneath the surface of modern Los Angeles.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 23
The Man from EarthMovie · 2007 · 87m · Science Fiction, DramaA professor preparing to leave his position invites his closest colleagues for a private gathering. The evening shifts dramatically when he reveals a surprising secret from his past. The revelation sparks a mix of doubt and fascination among the group, forcing them to reconsider their understanding of history, science, and faith.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 24
The Prophecy 3: The AscentMovie · 2000 · 84m · Horror, Fantasy, ThrillerAmidst a global war, Pyriel, the Angel of Genocide, gains power with the goal of eradicating humanity. His only opponent is Danyael, a street preacher uniquely born of an Angel and a woman – a nephilim.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.8 - 25
Deliver Us from EvilMovie · 2006 · 101m · Crime, DocumentaryDocumentary filmmaker Amy Berg examines the life of Father Oliver O'Grady, a 30-year-old pedophile. The film reveals the corruption within the Catholic Church that enabled his abuse of numerous children. Through victims' accounts and a revealing interview with O'Grady himself, the documentary explores the troubled mind of the priest who gained the trust of many while secretly betraying them by moving from parish to parish.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1 - 26
The Last Pope?Movie · 2018In the early 1100s, Catholic priest St. Malachy had a vision and received a prophecy outlining the motto for each Pope to come, "to the end of time." According to his prophecy, there would be 111 Popes from Celestine II until the end of days. In the late 1950s or early 1960s, the Catholic Church added a 112th Pope, whose motto was "Peterus Romanus." This film summarizes Malachy's prophecy, explaining why Pope Benedict XVI is considered the last Pope, the 111th, and the potential impact on the Church and the world.IMDb 6.5TMDB 8.0 - 27
The Enemies of ReasonMovie · 2007 · 96m · DocumentaryIn this documentary, scientist Richard Dawkins examines widespread beliefs that lack scientific support but maintain a strong following. He investigates phenomena like mediumship, psychokinesis, acupuncture, and other alternative medical practices, exploring how they continue to captivate the public.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 28
Red StateMovie · 2011 · 88m · Horror, Action, ThrillerIn a small American town, a group of teenagers click on an online invitation promising intimacy, but find themselves targeted by a group of Christian fundamentalists with a disturbing plan.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1 - 29
KsiadzMovie · 2017 · 16mFollowing a car accident, a Catholic priest checks into a hotel. Finding himself with unexpected downtime, he begins seeking amusement among the hotel's other guests.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.1 - 30
The GatheringMovie · 2003 · 92m · Horror, ThrillerCassie Grant, a traveler, survives a car accident in Glastonbury, England, but suffers partial memory loss. The driver, feeling guilty, offers her a place to recover at their country home, where she befriends the homeowner's stepson, Michael. As Cassie explores Michael's research on a recently discovered church, she experiences unsettling premonitions and slowly uncovers connections to this British community.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.5 - 31
The Exorcism of Emily RoseMovie · 2005 · 122m · Crime, Drama, HorrorFollowing the death of a young girl named Emily Rose, suspicion immediately falls on Father Moore, the priest who performed an exorcism on her. He is arrested and charged with murder. The trial begins with lawyer Erin Bruner defending Moore, but she faces a difficult task: convincing a jury to believe his account of events.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 32
Under the Sun of SatanMovie · 1987 · 98m · DramaFather Dossignan confronts his personal struggles while trying to help a young woman struggling with the consequences of her past. As he battles internal doubts and spiritual attacks, the priest's faith is challenged, and the girl desperately seeks a chance for redemption. The film explores temptation, forgiveness, and faith, offering a compelling look at the complexities of human nature.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 33
StigmataMovie · 1999 · 103m · Horror, Thriller, FantasyFrankie Paige, a non-religious woman, finds herself at the center of a strange mystery when she begins suffering physical pain that mirrors the wounds of Christ. The Vatican learns of her condition, and Cardinal Donnelly sends Father Andrew Kiernan to investigate.
As Kiernan investigates Frankie's unsettling experiences, he uncovers evidence of dark forces at work. His investigation becomes a race against time to save her from a malevolent entity. This suspenseful film explores faith, supernatural forces, and redemption as it reveals unexpected twists.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 34
Life of BrianMovie · 1979 · 94m · Comedy"Life of Brian" is a comedy about Brian Cohen, an ordinary young man living under Roman rule who is mistaken for the messiah by a group of devoted followers. Brian finds himself navigating both his enthusiastic fans and those who doubt him, all while dealing with his critical mother. He encounters Pontius Pilate and a quirky group of separatists obsessed with acronyms.
The film uses biblical stories with Monty Python's signature humor to create a hilarious and thought-provoking retelling. As Brian struggles with the absurd situations he finds himself in, the movie blends satire with heartwarming moments, prompting laughter and reflection on faith and belief.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 35
AbsolutionMovie · 1978 · 95m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryAt a remote Catholic boarding school, the stern Father Goddard commands absolute power over the boys, who live in fear and respect him. When one student confesses to murder, it shatters Father Goddard's carefully constructed world and forces him to confront his own hidden desires. As the school grapples with questions of faith and morality, Father Goddard's life spirals out of control, threatening his authority and his beliefs in a world growing increasingly unsure.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4 - 36
The Prophecy IIMovie · 1998 · 83m · Horror, Fantasy, ThrillerThis direct-to-video sequel features a fierce conflict between Gabriel, a powerful archangel who deeply hates humanity, and Daniel, a courageous angel fighting against Gabriel's destructive goals. Unexpectedly, Gabriel recruits a troubled teenager struggling with suicidal thoughts to help him carry out his plan to destroy humankind. The film explores themes of redemption and the battle between good and evil amidst a cosmic war where angels fight on Earth. It examines human suffering and resilience, and highlights the power of unlikely alliances when facing hardship.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.0 - 37
The Seventh SignMovie · 1988 · 97m · Horror, Drama, ThrillerIn a quiet suburban neighborhood, a pregnant woman named Abby welcomes a mysterious new tenant to the apartment above her garage. As she gets to know him, she discovers he is a divine messenger tasked with bringing about the end of the world. He meticulously follows biblical prophecy, causing rivers to run red and unleashing devastating plagues.
Abby grapples with the moral weight of his actions and questions the very nature of divinity as she navigates their unusual relationship. This unsettling drama explores faith, morality, and humanity's precarious position between salvation and destruction, blending everyday life with the supernatural.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.0 - 38
The ProphecyMovie · 1995 · 98m · Action, Mystery, FantasyIn a world where gods are at war, the fate of everything rests on the arrival of a new person. An angel named Gabriel comes to Earth to take this person's life, hoping it will change the war in Heaven. But he doesn’t expect two people to get in his way: a priest who has lost his faith and a young girl.
As good and evil fight around them, these two must work together to stop Gabriel from taking the person's soul. They learn that they are stronger together and find a reason to fight. This story moves between Earth and Heaven, showing how complicated the gods are and how strong people can be.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 39
The Battle with SatanMovie · 2015 · 75mIn the late 20th century, Pope John Paul II revived the practice of exorcism within the Catholic Church. In Poland, exorcisms quickly became widespread, with approximately 20,000 performed annually. The film follows several young Polish women who believe they are possessed and are undergoing exorcisms, offering a glimpse into the world of those who perform these rituals. Father Radon, a priest and scientist, seeks to investigate the phenomenon. Does exorcism truly aid those in need, or is it a superstition that hinders access to psychiatric care for people with mental illness?IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.0 - 40
ReligulousMovie · 2008 · 101m · Documentary, ComedyComedian Bill Maher engages in provocative conversations about religion with people who hold strong beliefs. He journeys globally to explore the core principles of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, questioning topics like homosexuality, evidence for Christ's life, Jewish religious observances, and the threat of violent extremism within some Muslim communities.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0 - 41
The ExorcistMovie · 1973 · 122m · HorrorA curious 12-year-old girl unexpectedly develops the ability to perfectly imitate voices and personalities. Doctors are puzzled as her condition worsens, and unexplained deaths begin to occur. Her mother, fearing something supernatural, seeks help from two experienced exorcist priests. They propose a dangerous ritual, their only chance to save her. The priests must confront their own doubts while battling a demonic presence within the child. This suspenseful film examines faith, family, and hidden forces that can dramatically change lives, as hope and desperation intensify.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7 - 42
The God Who Wasn't ThereMovie · 2005 · 61m · Documentary, Drama, FantasyThe film begins by questioning the existence of Jesus, and then explores Christianity in its entirety.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 43
The IslandMovie · 2006 · 112m · Drama, ComedyIn a remote Russian Orthodox monastery in Northern Russia lives an enigmatic man whose strange behavior puzzles his fellow monks. Visitors to the isolated island, however, believe he possesses extraordinary abilities – healing, exorcism, and prophecy.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.9 - 44
Root of All Evil?Movie · 2006 · 93m · DocumentaryProfessor Richard Dawkins confronts the rise of religious faith in a two-part Channel 4 series, calling it "a process of non-thinking." He expresses surprise that faith is growing despite scientific advancements based on skepticism, investigation, and evidence. Science constantly tests its ideas, while faith is untested and unwavering, directly opposing this process. Dawkins argues that religions, despite promoting morality, peace, and hope, actually foster intolerance, violence, and destruction. The increasing prevalence of religious extremism worldwide threatens humanity and contradicts humanity's historical progress towards enlightenment and tolerance.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.4 - 45
Tell No OneMovie · 2019 · 121m · DocumentaryThis powerful Polish documentary exposes the hidden reality of child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church in Poland. Directed by Tomasz Sekielski, it reveals disturbing truths long kept secret. The film shares harrowing stories from survivors and their families who have been harmed by those in positions of spiritual authority. Through direct interviews, it examines the lasting impact of this abuse on individuals, families, and communities, while also revealing the institutional failures that enabled it to continue for years. By amplifying the voices of victims and demanding accountability, this moving documentary highlights their strength and courage in fighting for justice.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 46
The ConclaveMovie · 2007 · 100mIn 1458, five years after Constantinople fell to the Turks, eighteen cardinals gather to choose a new pope. Eighteen-year-old Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia discovers a perilous power struggle.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9 - 47
mother!Movie · 2017 · 121m · Drama, HorrorA couple's peaceful life is upended by the unexpected arrival of visitors, putting their relationship to the test.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.0 - 48
Aloha Mars!Movie · 2004 · 127m · DramaThis film depicts the final twelve hours of Jesus of Nazareth's life.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5 - 49
Once Upon a Time in PolandMovie · 2021This film explores the relationship between Poles and Czechs, two neighboring nations with shared histories. It highlights the contrast between Czech atheism and the deeply Catholic culture of Poland, often with humorous results. The filmmakers interview a diverse range of people, including ordinary citizens, nuns, Radio Maryja staff, a priest facing accusations, and an exorcist. Karel embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about Polish faith, while also seeking his own spiritual understanding through filmmaking. Ultimately, the documentary questions Poland's recent internal divisions and draws parallels to the situation in Czechia.IMDb 6.5TMDB 1.0 - 50
BelzebuthMovie · 2019 · 114m · Horror, FantasySpecial Agent Emanuel Ritter investigates a massacre at a public school near the U.S.-Mexico border and discovers a connection between the crime and the awakening of the ancient demon Belzebuth. To prevent a series of planned infanticides, Ritter must first confront his own inner demons before he can battle the forces of good and evil.IMDb 6.0TMDB 7.2 - 51
The Ninth GateMovie · 1999 · 133m · Mystery, Thriller, HorrorA clever antiquarian's search for a rare book, 'The Nine Gates of the Kingdom of Shadows,' becomes a dangerous mystery. What starts as a simple pursuit of profit quickly turns into a world of crime, lies, and dark secrets. He must navigate a treacherous landscape where he can't trust anyone, and the consequences are deadly. This story examines greed, right and wrong, and the supernatural, offering a suspenseful experience that will stay with you.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 52
Outside SatanMovie · 2011 · 110mNear a coastal village on the Côte d'Opale, a solitary wanderer lives a secluded existence among the dunes and marshes. He drifts from place to place, surviving through poaching, prayer, and building fires.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 53
Jesus CampMovie · 2006 · 84m · DocumentaryJesus Camp follows a Christian summer camp where children are taught to develop their spiritual abilities and prepare to "take back America for Christ." The film offers an unprecedented glimpse into this rigorous training environment, where young, devout Christians are recruited to become involved in the nation's political landscape.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 54
The First Temptation of ChristMovie · 2019 · 46m · Comedy, FantasyOn his thirtieth birthday, Jesus introduces a surprising guest to his family. The resulting Christmas special is so bizarre it feels like it was created by the Brazilian comedy group Porta dos Fundos.IMDb 5.0TMDB 5.5 - 55
The Devil's DoorwayMovie · 2018 · 76m · Horror, DramaIn the fall of 1960, Vatican-sent priests Father Thomas Riley and Father John Thornton arrive at an Irish home for women with troubled pasts to investigate a reported miracle. Instead, they discover something far more disturbing.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.5 - 56
Of Gods and MenMovie · 2010 · 120m · Drama, HistoryIn Algeria, a community of Trappist monks lives peacefully at the Tibhirine monastery, maintaining strong relationships with the local Muslim people. When a violent conflict erupts between the Algerian army and Islamist insurgents, the monks are faced with the difficult decision of whether to leave their home and abandon the villagers they've served. Amidst the escalating violence, the monks grapple with their beliefs and ultimately choose to remain, working to protect their neighbors from both sides.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 57
Adam's ApplesMovie · 2005 · 95m · Drama, Comedy, CrimeA man with neo-Nazi beliefs is ordered to do community service at a church, where he finds himself in conflict with the deeply devoted priest.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
