134 Controversial Films Banned in the US
133 titles
- 101
Triumph of the WillMovie · 1935 · 114m · DocumentaryThe film journeys to 1934 Nuremberg, offering a stark look inside Nazi Germany during the pivotal party rally. It focuses on Adolf Hitler, portrayed as both a captivating leader and a ruthless dictator, delivering powerful speeches to thousands of Nazi party members united under the banner of a unified Germany. The movie accurately depicts the dark reality of Hitler's regime and the immense scale of the event, serving as a reminder of the power and manipulation inherent in political leaders and mass movements.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 102
ShortbusMovie · 2006 · 101m · Romance, Drama, ComedyNew York City, after 9/11. At Shortbus, a notorious underground salon in Brooklyn, the lives of a diverse group of people become intertwined – through relationships, romance, and intimacy. The salon is known for its mix of art, music, politics, and sexuality.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 103
The KissMovie · 1896 · 1m · Drama, RomanceThis romantic comedy follows two people who instantly connect and begin an unexpected journey together. The film shows their love growing through gentle moments, leading to a memorable kiss that audiences love.
The story explores the challenges of their relationship as they deal with personal issues and societal expectations while pursuing true love. Their passion is evident, but their path isn't easy – it’s full of humor, emotion, and surprises.
The movie examines modern relationships with romance and charm, showing how love can happen unexpectedly. As the characters finally share a powerful kiss, viewers will be invested in their success.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.2 - 104
ScarfaceMovie · 1932 · 93mChicago, 1920s. Antonio "Tony" Camonte, known as Scarface, is an Italian immigrant and a ruthless gangster who climbs the ranks of organized crime while trying to shield his sister from the dangerous world he inhabits.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 105
Ilsa: She Wolf of the SSMovie · 1975 · 96m · Thriller, Horror, WarDuring World War II, the film centers on Ilsa, a Nazi death camp warden who believes women can withstand more suffering than men. She conducts brutal experiments on prisoners to test this idea, hoping to allow women to fight in combat. The story explores Ilsa's reasoning and the strength of those who endure her cruelty, offering a stark depiction of courage and determination during wartime.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.0 - 106
CrashMovie · 1996 · 100m · Thriller, DramaA TV director seeking to reignite his marriage becomes drawn into a hidden world of people affected by car accidents. The accident survivors, bearing physical scars, participate in a sexually open subculture driven by the intense energy of collisions. As the director explores this dangerous community, he confronts his own desires and the potential impact they have on himself and others. The film presents a challenging look at human connection and societal expectations through stark visuals.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 107
Men Behind the SunMovie · 1988 · 105m · War, History, HorrorThe film depicts the horrific events inside Unit 731, a secret biological weapons unit of the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. It vividly recreates the brutal medical experiments performed on Chinese and Soviet prisoners near the war's end, illustrating the depths of human cruelty committed in the name of military gain. The movie's graphic portrayal reveals the dark history of Unit 731, forcing viewers to confront the disturbing realities and devastating consequences of war.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 108
ViridianaMovie · 1962 · 90m · Drama"Viridiana" follows a young woman on the verge of becoming a nun who is unexpectedly asked to visit her estranged, elderly uncle, Don Jaime. He sees a striking resemblance between her and his late wife, a connection Viridiana secretly resents. Her aspirations for a spiritual life are disrupted as her uncle persistently tries to seduce her. The film explores the complicated relationships within families, the meaning of loyalty, and the conflict between personal beliefs and religious devotion.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 109
Basic InstinctMovie · 1992 · 128m · Thriller, MysteryCatherine, a novelist known for her intense sexuality, is suspected of murder when her boyfriend is brutally killed. The details of the crime closely mirror events she wrote about in her most recent novel.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 110
Do the Right ThingMovie · 1989 · 120m · DramaIn a raw drama set in Brooklyn, Salvatore "Sal" Fragione owns a popular local pizzeria. Things get complicated when a regular customer named Buggin' Out objects to Sal’s Wall of Fame, which only features Italian actors. Buggin' Out believes the pizzeria, in a predominantly Black neighborhood, should celebrate its diverse customers with a more inclusive display, and his frustration fuels growing tension. What starts as a disagreement over a simple gesture evolves into a reflection of broader societal issues, forcing both Sal and Buggin' Out to examine their own biases.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 111
The Magdalene SistersMovie · 2002 · 119m · Drama, HistoryIn a Magdalene Sisters Asylum, three young Irish women face brutal abuse while desperately trying to hold onto hope.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 112
Peeping TomMovie · 1960 · 101m · Horror, Thriller, DramaMark Lewis is a quiet man who works at a busy film studio but finds solace in the solitude of the night. He has a disturbing hobby: secretly photographing women and recording their fear during murders. His latest project takes an unexpected turn when he befriends Helen, the daughter of the family living below him. Mark shares cryptic details about his film work with her, creating a dangerous and intricate situation as his dark obsession spirals out of control.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 113
The Brown BunnyMovie · 2003 · 93m · DramaBud Clay is a motorcycle racer competing in the 250cc Formula II class. Following a race in New Hampshire, he has five days to travel to his next event in California. On the journey, he's preoccupied by recollections of Daisy, the woman he loves.IMDb 4.9TMDB 5.4 - 114
The PianistMovie · 2002 · 150m · Drama, WarThis is the true story of pianist Władysław Szpilman's life in Warsaw during the Nazi occupation. As the city's Jewish population is confined to a ghetto, Szpilman finds work performing in a café. When his family is deported in 1942, he remains in Warsaw, working as a laborer before ultimately going into hiding amidst the ruins of the war.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 115
RoarMovie · 1981 · 95m · Adventure, Comedy, Horror"Roar" follows a family on vacation at the isolated estate of an unusual animal keeper. They soon discover the property is filled with free-ranging African wildlife. What begins as an exciting getaway quickly escalates into a terrifying fight for survival when the family is attacked by these dangerous animals.
As fear takes hold, the family must work together to endure this unforeseen crisis. The film explores survival, family unity, and humanity's connection to nature, featuring intense visuals that immerse the audience in the action. With a suspenseful story and realistic portrayals of terror and resilience, "Roar" is a powerful and emotional experience that examines the limits of human endurance when confronted by the wild.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 116
Mondo CaneMovie · 1962 · 105m · DocumentaryThis documentary journeys around the world, exploring unusual cultural practices that offer new perspectives on human experience. It combines travel stories to capture memorable moments and provide insights into traditions from different communities.
The film features scenes like an insect banquet, where eating insects is a culinary experience outside Western norms. It also examines a South Pacific cargo cult, showing how people recreate past rituals and objects hoping to gain prosperity.
The documentary presents a diverse range of cultures that challenge our assumptions about the world. It highlights human creativity and resilience, showcasing the beauty and complexity of these practices and encouraging viewers to reconsider their own perspectives.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 117
KinseyMovie · 2004 · 118m · DramaKinsey is a look at Alfred Kinsey, a researcher determined to explore the most private aspects of American life. What starts as a scientific project becomes deeply personal for Kinsey, evolving into an unforeseen exploration of human nature.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 118
Ken ParkMovie · 2003 · 97m · DramaKen Park follows a group of teenagers struggling with difficult family situations. Shawn appears to have the most stable home life. Tate is consumed by intense anger. Claude is constantly bullied by his abusive father and overly sheltered by his heavily pregnant mother. Peaches cares for her strict religious father but desires independence. They all insist they're close, but their relationships are complicated.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.0 - 119
Bandit QueenMovie · 1994 · 119m · Action, Crime, DramaThe film tells the story of Phoolan Devi, who grew up in rural India under strict patriarchal traditions. At just 11, she is forced into marriage and repeatedly raped and abused by those she trusted. This leads her to become the Bandit Queen, a warrior who steals from the wealthy to help the poor, similar to Robin Hood.
This powerful biographical film shows Phoolan Devi's strength and determination despite facing oppressive societal norms. It also critiques India's patriarchal system and reveals the violence that traps many women in abuse and desperation. The film offers a moving look at her transformation from victim to vigilante, a story that is both captivating and makes you think.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.6 - 120
HäxanMovie · 1922 · 105m · Documentary, Horror, HistoryBenjamin Christensen’s innovative film examines medieval witchcraft through a series of dramatic scenes. It compares the accusations against witches in the Middle Ages to the mental illnesses of his own time, exploring the psychological roots of these frightening events.
The darkly comedic film combines horror, disturbing visuals, and unsettling humor for a memorable experience. The story features grave robbing, brutal torture, and a group of possessed nuns holding a satanic ritual.
Blending frightening sequences with macabre wit, the film takes viewers to another time while prompting reflection on superstition, belief, and the human mind's susceptibility to mass hysteria.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 121
Henry: Portrait of a Serial KillerMovie · 1986 · 83m · Crime, Horror, ThrillerThis darkly funny thriller centers on Henry, a man with a disturbing passion for killing people in inventive ways. He lives with Otis, his roommate, who is unaware of Henry's deadly secret. Their quiet life is disrupted when Otis' sister comes to stay, unknowingly entering the dangerous world between the two men. The film explores the contrasting sides of Henry – as a normal neighbor and as a relentless serial killer – prompting viewers to consider how well we really know the people in our lives and what hidden darkness might exist beneath the surface of everyday existence.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 122
Twilight Zone: The MovieMovie · 1983 · 101m · Horror, Fantasy, Science FictionThis anthology film presents four unique stories, combining classic episodes from "The Twilight Zone" with a new one. The remakes include "Kick the Can," about elderly people finding youthful joy; "It's a Good Life," focusing on a boy with frightening telepathic abilities; and "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet," where a man faces his greatest fears on a plane. These stories connect with the original piece, "Time Out," about a man who inexplicably stops experiencing time, questioning what is real. The film blends suspense, drama, and science fiction, offering viewers a thought-provoking exploration of surreal worlds.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 123
Faces of DeathMovie · 1978 · 105m · Horror, DocumentaryThis film collects a variety of death scenes from different sources, including professional TV and amateur home videos shot on Super-8. The clips, regardless of their quality, all depict death and offer a glimpse into the many ways life can end. This collection creates a unique cinematic experience that prompts viewers to consider the finality of life and the diverse circumstances surrounding death.IMDb 4.3TMDB 4.5 - 124
Hail MaryMovie · 1985 · 72m · DramaA college student unexpectedly discovers she's pregnant, despite never having had sex. This surprising event has far-reaching consequences, affecting everyone around her, even those with no connection to the situation. As the news spreads, relationships are strained, beliefs are challenged, and people grapple with understanding. The student's experience becomes a moving story about faith, finding herself, and how one person's life can impact the lives of many others.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.3 - 125
IrreversibleMovie · 2002 · 93m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeAfter a woman is brutally raped, her lover and her ex-boyfriend decide to take matters into their own hands. Driven by the belief that some wrongs can't be forgiven, fueled by primal rage, and frustrated by the failures of the justice system, they seek vengeance.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 126
Dirty HarryMovie · 1971 · 102m · Action, Crime, ThrillerSan Francisco is thrown into turmoil by a dangerous criminal called Scorpio. The police struggle to find him, so they need someone exceptional. That's Harry Callahan, a tough cop known for being fearless and uncompromising. He's tasked with stopping Scorpio before things get worse. Callahan faces a ruthless enemy determined to reach their dark objectives. As the danger grows and more people die, Callahan battles his inner struggles while navigating the city's dangerous streets in a desperate race against time that will challenge everything he believes in.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 127
Bonnie and ClydeMovie · 1967 · 111m · Crime, DramaDuring the 1930s Great Depression, this drama follows Bonnie Parker, a restless waitress seeking excitement, and Clyde Barrow, an ex-convict haunted by his past.
Their relationship intensifies as they turn to crime, traveling the country while stealing cars and robbing banks. Their actions attract law enforcement, leading to a nationwide manhunt and increasing notoriety.
The film examines love, crime, and the societal pressures of the era, presenting a raw look at two people grappling with their darker sides amidst a changing world. With detailed period setting and compelling performances, it's a moving story about human complexity and how desperate times affect ordinary lives.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 128
Straw DogsMovie · 1971 · 116mDavid Sumner, an American academic, marries Amy and moves with her to her hometown in rural Cornwall to escape his busy life. He finds himself unwelcome in the close-knit community, facing hostility from the village men, particularly Amy's former boyfriend, Charlie. The initial teasing gradually turns into more serious harassment.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 129
Love Camp 7Movie · 1969 · 96mTwo female Army agents infiltrate a Nazi prison camp with the mission of gathering information from a scientist imprisoned within its walls.IMDb 3.9TMDB 3.9 - 130
Child BrideMovie · 1938 · 62m · Drama, RomanceIn a secluded mountain community, twelve-year-old Jennie faces difficult circumstances within a long-held tradition of child marriage. Surrounded by a culture that accepts this practice, she finds support in Miss Carol, her schoolteacher, who has returned from her education determined to challenge the custom and protect girls like Jennie.
Miss Carol's views are not universally accepted. Ira, Jennie’s father, is a kind man trying to protect his daughter and Miss Carol from those, like Jake Bolby, who want to maintain the tradition. As Jennie’s future is threatened, she must navigate this dangerous situation while Miss Carol bravely opposes cultural expectations.
The story explores the effects of child marriage on individuals and highlights the power of education to change deeply rooted social norms. Jennie and Miss Carol develop a strong bond through their shared experiences, inspiring others to fight against oppression and for the right to choose their own futures.IMDb 4.5TMDB 4.5 - 131
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of KazakhstanMovie · 2006 · 84m · ComedyKazakh journalist Borat Sagdiyev journeys to America to film a documentary. Throughout his travels, Borat encounters everyday Americans in ordinary situations, leading to unexpectedly funny outcomes. His unconventional behavior provokes significant reactions, highlighting societal biases and contradictions within American culture.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 132
Cannibal HolocaustMovie · 1980 · 96m · HorrorA New York University professor journeys into the Amazon rainforest to find a missing documentary filmmaking team. Deep in the jungle, he discovers evidence of their expedition's demise and finds the footage they captured. The footage reveals rare insights into the lives and customs of isolated cannibal tribes. Back in New York, the professor shares the footage, generating both interest and debate as the world gains an unprecedented view of this hidden world. The story explores adventure, human connection, and the powerful pull of discovery when facing danger and the unknown.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.3 - 133
Cannibal FeroxMovie · 1981 · 93m · Adventure, HorrorThree friends venture into a dense forest to debunk a cannibalism myth. Their expedition changes when they encounter two men fleeing from a vengeful tribe.
The men, haunted by a dark secret, had previously enslaved the cannibals while searching for emeralds hidden within the jungle. Now, as the tribe retaliates, the friends become caught in a deadly struggle for survival and revenge.
The film explores friendship, guilt, and redemption as the characters face danger from both their pursuers and their own past. With stunning visuals showcasing the wilderness's beauty and peril, the story follows these unlikely allies as they fight for freedom and a chance to make amends.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.4
