45 Films That Provoked National Controversy: Shocking Stories

Movies are made to entertain, but some do more than that – they spark heated debates. A few films have pushed boundaries so far that they’ve left people angry, shocked, or deeply divided. 

Here, I’m discussing 45 films that provoked national controversy for their bold stories and shocking content. Some were banned, others protested, but all created conversations.

45 Films That Provoked National Controversy

Some movies make people upset. They tell stories or share ideas that spark debates about what’s right, wrong, or appropriate. These films often talk about sensitive topics, like politics, religion, or history, and some show things that people feel shouldn’t be in movies.

Here are the 45 films that provoked national controversy:

Movie Name	Year of Release	Concise Description
The Birth of a Nation	1915	Glorifies KKK and racism
Triumph of the Will	1935	Nazi propaganda documentary
Dr. Strangelove	1964	Satirical take on Cold War
JFK	1991	Conspiracy about JFK’s death
Zero Dark Thirty	2012	Torture in terrorism context
The Interview	2014	Satirical film on North Korea
The Hunt for Red October	1990	Cold War submarine thriller
Apocalypse Now	1979	Gritty Vietnam War story
American Sniper	2014	Controversial war biography
Platoon	1986	Raw Vietnam War depiction
The Last Temptation of Christ	1988	Alternative story of Jesus
Monty Python’s Life of Brian	1979	Comedy mocking religious beliefs
The Da Vinci Code	2006	Mystery about Church secrets
Noah	2014	Creative retelling of Bible story
Dogma	1999	Religious satire with humor
The Exorcist	1973	Horror about demonic possession
The Passion of the Christ	2004	Graphic depiction of crucifixion
Heaven’s Gate	1980	Explores cult and tragedy
Hail Mary	1985	Modern Virgin Mary portrayal
Mother!	2017	Allegorical environmental themes
A Clockwork Orange	1971	Graphic, violent dystopian story
Fifty Shades of Grey	2015	Controversial romantic dynamics
Blue is the Warmest Color	2013	Emotional LGBTQ+ love story
Showgirls	1995	Ambitious dancer’s journey
Lolita	1962	Adult’s obsession with a teen
Basic Instinct	1992	Provocative psychological thriller
The Wolf of Wall Street	2013	Wealth, greed, and excess
Eyes Wide Shut	1999	Secrets and marital struggles
Kids	1995	Unfiltered portrayal of teen life
Brokeback Mountain	2005	Romantic LGBTQ+ cowboy drama
Cannibal Holocaust	1980	Controversial violence and cruelty
Natural Born Killers	1994	Satire on media and violence
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre	1974	Classic horror with cannibalism
The Joker	2019	Tragic origin of a villain
Pulp Fiction	1994	Unique, nonlinear crime story
The Silence of the Lambs	1991	Thriller with psychological depth
Scarface	1983	Rise and fall of a drug lord
Irreversible	2002	Disturbing revenge and tragedy
Saw	2004	Horror with deadly games
The Human Centipede	2009	Extreme and shocking horror
Gone with the Wind	1939	Romanticized depiction of slavery
Black Panther	2018	Superhero story with deep themes
Cuties	2020	Debate on childhood portrayal
The Help	2011	Race and domestic worker stories
The Blair Witch Project	1999	Found footage horror innovation

The Birth of a Nation (1915)

This silent film made people angry because it glorified the Ku Klux Klan and showed Black people in offensive ways.

The movie tells the story of two families during the Civil War and Reconstruction period in America. One family supports the South, and the other supports the North. It paints the South as noble and the KKK as heroes. People were outraged because the film supported racist ideas and stereotypes.

It was directed by D.W. Griffith and starred actors like Lillian Gish. Although it introduced many groundbreaking filmmaking techniques, its message hurt many people. Protests and boycotts spread across the country when it was released.

This movie is still studied in film schools, but not because of its story. It is an example of how powerful movies can be in shaping ideas, both good and bad.

Triumph of the Will (1935)

This documentary upset people because it was made to promote Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany.

The movie, directed by Leni Riefenstahl, showed large Nazi rallies and made Hitler look like a hero. Many people think it’s dangerous because it uses powerful images and music to spread hateful ideas. Even though it’s a well-made film, it’s remembered for its connection to one of history’s darkest times.

Today, the film is used to discuss how propaganda works and why it can be harmful. People debate whether such movies should still be watched.

Dr. Strangelove (1964)

This dark comedy about nuclear war made people uncomfortable during a time of real-world tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

The story, directed by Stanley Kubrick, is about a mad general who triggers a nuclear crisis. The movie mocks the seriousness of war and political decisions. Some viewers thought the humor was inappropriate because nuclear war is a scary and serious topic.

Peter Sellers played several characters, and his performance is legendary. Critics praised the film for being bold and creative, but it also upset people who felt the subject wasn’t something to laugh about.

JFK (1991)

This movie made waves because it suggested a conspiracy behind President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

Directed by Oliver Stone, the film follows a lawyer, played by Kevin Costner, who believes the government covered up the truth about Kennedy’s death. Some people loved how the movie questioned history, while others said it spread false ideas.

This movie started new discussions about trust in the government and whether we can ever know the full truth about important events.

Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

This film upset people because it showed torture used by U.S. officials while hunting for Osama bin Laden.

Jessica Chastain stars as a CIA analyst tracking down the al-Qaeda leader. The movie doesn’t say if torture was right or wrong, which made some people angry. Critics said the film made it look like torture worked, while others appreciated its intense storytelling.

Director Kathryn Bigelow defended the movie, saying it aimed to show what happened without taking sides. It left audiences divided about whether it was fair or responsible to show such things.

The Interview (2014)

This comedy created real-world problems because it made fun of North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un.

Seth Rogen and James Franco play two journalists sent to assassinate the dictator. North Korea’s government called the movie an attack on their country. Hackers leaked private information from Sony Pictures, and threats were made against theaters planning to show the film.

Many theaters pulled the movie to avoid violence. Some people thought the film went too far, while others defended it as free speech.

The Hunt for Red October (1990)

This Cold War movie caused debates about how realistic it was and how it portrayed Soviet and U.S. military relationships.

Sean Connery plays a Soviet submarine captain trying to defect to America. The movie was exciting and tense, but some critics thought it was too simple in how it showed Cold War politics. Others appreciated the action and suspense.

It’s still one of the most popular submarine movies, but it made people think about how movies influence ideas about real-world conflicts.

Apocalypse Now (1979)

This Vietnam War film shocked audiences with its violence and chaotic production stories.

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, the movie follows a soldier sent to kill a rogue colonel in Cambodia. The story, starring Martin Sheen and Marlon Brando, explores the horrors of war. Behind the scenes, the production was so intense that actors and crew faced physical and emotional challenges.

People debated whether the movie was anti-war or if it glorified violence. It’s still seen as one of the most important war films, but it leaves viewers questioning its message.

American Sniper (2014)

This movie divided audiences because of its portrayal of U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

Directed by Clint Eastwood, the story shows Kyle’s experiences in the Iraq War. Some people praised the film for honoring soldiers, while others criticized it for not showing the full picture of the war. Bradley Cooper’s performance as Kyle earned widespread praise.

The movie started discussions about patriotism, the cost of war, and how movies shape public opinion about soldiers and conflicts.

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

This movie upset religious groups by showing an imagined version of Jesus struggling with human desires.

Martin Scorsese directed this film, starring Willem Dafoe as Jesus. The story imagines what Jesus’ life might have been like if he had doubts and temptations. Religious groups called it offensive and protested its release.

While some praised it for exploring deep themes, others felt it disrespected their beliefs. The controversy helped make the movie more famous than it might have been otherwise.

Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)

This comedy upset many people because it poked fun at religion.

The story is about a man named Brian who is mistaken for the Messiah. Religious groups said it mocked Christianity and called for boycotts. Some towns even banned it. Fans loved its humor and sharp writing, calling it a clever satire.

Over time, the movie has become a classic, but it’s still brought up in discussions about how far comedy can go without offending people.

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

This mystery-thriller angered the Catholic Church because it suggested hidden secrets about Jesus and Christianity.

Based on the book by Dan Brown, the movie stars Tom Hanks as a professor solving ancient puzzles. Religious leaders said the story spread lies about their faith. Fans, on the other hand, enjoyed the suspense and historical mysteries.

The film became a huge hit, partly because of the controversy. It also sparked interest in the real history behind the story.

Noah (2014)

The movie Noah caused controversy because it didn’t stick to the traditional Bible story. Some people thought the changes were creative, while others found them disrespectful.

Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the film tells the story of Noah, played by Russell Crowe. God chooses Noah to build a massive ark to save his family and the animals from a devastating flood.

While the basic plot followed the Bible, the film added fantasy elements that upset many religious viewers. For example, it included giant rock creatures called Watchers, who helped Noah build the ark. These creatures were not part of the original biblical story.

Another change was how Noah was portrayed. In the movie, he is conflicted and harsh, even considering letting his family die because he believes humans are too sinful. This darker version of Noah made some viewers uncomfortable. Others appreciated how it showed his internal struggles.

Dogma (1999)

Dogma sparked protests because it used humor to critique organized religion. Many people loved its bold storytelling, but others found it offensive.

The film was written and directed by Kevin Smith. It tells the story of two fallen angels, played by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, who find a loophole in Catholic dogma that could let them re-enter heaven.

However, if they succeed, it will undo creation. A group of unlikely heroes, including a forgotten apostle and a sarcastic muse, must stop them. The movie uses comedy to explore serious topics like faith, forgiveness, and the role of the church.

Religious groups were unhappy with how the movie joked about holy figures and sacred beliefs. They held protests outside theaters, calling the film blasphemous. Some church leaders demanded it be banned. Kevin Smith, the director, defended the movie, saying it was not attacking religion but rather questioning some practices.

The Exorcist (1973)

When The Exorcist came out, its terrifying story shocked audiences. It also angered religious groups, who felt it promoted evil ideas.

The movie follows Regan, a young girl played by Linda Blair, who becomes possessed by a demon. Her mother, desperate for help, turns to two priests to perform an exorcism. The film’s graphic scenes scared viewers like no movie had done before.

The horror wasn’t just in the visuals. The story touched on themes of faith, good versus evil, and the power of prayer, which made it feel very real for some viewers. Religious groups said the movie was dangerous because it made demonic possession seem possible. They worried it could scare people away from faith or encourage curiosity about the occult.

The film also had a reputation for causing physical reactions in theaters. Reports of fainting, vomiting, and even heart attacks added to its infamy. Critics were divided. Some called it the greatest horror movie ever made, while others felt it went too far.

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

This film caused debates for its graphic violence and its portrayal of Jewish people’s role in Jesus Christ’s death.

Directed by Mel Gibson, The Passion of the Christ focuses on the last 12 hours of Jesus’ life. It shows his betrayal, trial, and crucifixion in brutal detail. Jim Caviezel plays Jesus, delivering a powerful performance that moved many viewers.

The scenes of Jesus being whipped and carrying the cross are intense, with some people calling the violence excessive.

Jewish groups criticized the movie, saying it could fuel antisemitic beliefs. They argued that the film unfairly portrayed Jewish leaders as villains responsible for Jesus’ death. Mel Gibson defended his film, saying it was based on historical accounts, but the controversy continued.

Despite these issues, the movie was a massive success, especially among Christian audiences. Many people praised it for its emotional and spiritual impact.

Others, however, found it too upsetting to watch. The film remains one of the most talked-about religious movies, sparking conversations about faith and filmmaking.

Hail Mary (1985)

Hail Mary upset religious groups by reimagining the Virgin Mary’s story in a modern setting. Many felt the film was disrespectful.

Directed by Jean-Luc Godard, the movie tells the story of Mary as a college student who becomes pregnant while remaining a virgin. The film explores themes of faith, science, and humanity. Instead of showing miracles, it uses more realistic explanations for events, which made some viewers uncomfortable.

Catholic groups protested the film’s release, saying it mocked sacred beliefs. In some countries, the movie was banned, and theaters faced pressure not to show it. Godard, known for his experimental style, said the film wasn’t meant to offend but to explore faith in a new way.

Critics were divided. Some praised the movie for its bold storytelling, while others felt it crossed a line. Today, Hail Mary is remembered as a daring film that pushed boundaries, though it remains controversial for its portrayal of religious themes.

Mother! (2017)

Mother! left audiences confused and divided. Some called it a masterpiece, while others found it upsetting and hard to follow.

The movie, directed by Darren Aronofsky, stars Jennifer Lawrence as a woman living with her husband in a quiet house. Their peaceful life is disrupted when unexpected guests arrive, and chaos unfolds. The story is full of symbolism, with themes about humanity’s treatment of the Earth and the destructive nature of people.

Many viewers didn’t know what to make of the film. The violence, especially in the final scenes, shocked audiences. Some people appreciated its deeper messages, while others felt the movie was too abstract and disturbing.

Critics were split as well. Aronofsky called it an allegory about humanity and the environment, but not everyone connected with his vision. Whether loved or hated, Mother! remains a film that sparks passionate discussions.

A Clockwork Orange (1971)

A Clockwork Orange sparked outrage for its graphic violence and disturbing scenes, leading to a ban in the UK for several years.

Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the movie follows Alex, a teenager who enjoys committing horrific crimes. He leads a gang that terrorizes people with acts of violence and theft. After being arrested, Alex is subjected to a controversial therapy.

The therapy is meant to remove his violent tendencies by making him associate bad behavior with feelings of sickness and pain. However, the therapy strips Alex of his free will, raising tough questions about morality and government control.

The film included explicit scenes that shocked audiences. Many viewers and critics said the movie glorified violence and crime. Some real-life violent acts were linked to the film, which only increased public concern.

After receiving threats, Kubrick requested that the movie be withdrawn from UK theaters, and it remained banned there for nearly three decades.

Despite the controversy, A Clockwork Orange is now considered a groundbreaking film. It is praised for its thought-provoking story and unique style.

Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

This movie caused debates for its portrayal of BDSM relationships and its representation of consent.

The film, based on the bestselling novel by E.L. James, tells the story of Anastasia Steele, a college student, and Christian Grey, a wealthy businessman. Christian introduces Anastasia to BDSM, which adds complexity to their relationship.

While some viewers praised the film for discussing taboo topics, others criticized it for showing an unhealthy dynamic. Christian’s controlling behavior raised questions about whether their relationship was romantic or problematic.

Psychologists and relationship experts weighed in, saying the movie gave a misleading portrayal of BDSM. Critics said it lacked healthy communication between the characters and romanticized emotional manipulation. Some viewers also felt the film’s story focused more on shock value than meaningful development.

Despite the backlash, the movie became a global box-office hit. It sparked conversations about relationships and consent.

Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)

This French film gained attention for its emotional portrayal of a lesbian relationship. However, its explicit content caused widespread debate.

The movie tells the story of Adèle, a high school student, who falls in love with Emma, an older artist with blue hair. The film explores themes of love, self-discovery, and heartbreak in a deeply personal way. The performances by Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux were widely praised for their authenticity.

The controversy came from the movie’s explicit love scenes, which some felt were too graphic and unnecessary. LGBTQ+ groups were divided. Some praised the film for bringing a lesbian love story to the mainstream. Others criticized it, saying the male director, Abdellatif Kechiche, failed to fully understand the emotional depth of a same-sex relationship.

The film won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, making history. Despite the praise, the debates about its content.

Showgirls (1995)

Showgirls was criticized for its excessive nudity, sexual themes, and lack of depth, making it one of the most controversial films of the 1990s.

When it was released, critics panned the movie, calling it trashy and offensive. Some argued it was exploitative, while others thought it failed to deliver a meaningful story. Despite the backlash, the movie later gained a cult following. Some fans argue that it’s a satire of fame and ambition, while others continue to view it as an over-the-top failure.

Today, Showgirls is remembered as both a cautionary tale and a misunderstood work. The debates about its intent and execution still divide audiences.

Lolita (1962)

Lolita sparked outrage for its story about a middle-aged man’s obsession with a teenage girl, which many found deeply inappropriate.

Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the movie is based on Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial novel. It follows Humbert Humbert, a professor who becomes infatuated with Dolores, a 14-year-old girl he nicknames Lolita.

While the movie toned down some elements of the book, the subject matter remained uncomfortable for many viewers.

Critics debated whether the film should have been made at all. Some praised its artistic direction and acting, particularly by James Mason as Humbert. Others felt the story was disturbing and should not be adapted for the screen. Protests and censorship efforts followed the film’s release in several countries.

Even today, Lolita is a difficult film to discuss. It is respected for its craft but often criticized for its unsettling themes.

Basic Instinct (1992)

This thriller caused a stir for its sexual content and its controversial portrayal of bisexual characters.

The movie stars Sharon Stone as Catherine Tramell, a seductive novelist and murder suspect, and Michael Douglas as the detective investigating her. The film became famous for its interrogation scene, where Catherine uses her sexuality to unsettle the men questioning her.

LGBTQ+ groups protested the movie, saying it perpetuated harmful stereotypes about bisexual people. Activists criticized the film for depicting bisexual women as dangerous and manipulative. While some viewers appreciated the movie for its suspenseful storytelling, others felt its shock value overshadowed its plot.

Despite the controversy, Basic Instinct was a commercial success. It is remembered as one of the most iconic thrillers of the 1990s, but its portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters remains a topic of discussion.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

This movie received criticism for its explicit depictions of greed, drug use, and excess.

Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who gained wealth through illegal schemes. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Belfort, whose life is full of wild parties, drug abuse, and unethical behavior.

Some viewers said the film glorified Belfort’s actions, while others believed it was a critique of the culture that allowed him to thrive. The explicit content, including nudity and drug use, made the movie difficult for some audiences to sit through.

Despite the controversy, the movie was a box-office hit and received multiple award nominations.

Eyes Wide Shut (1999)

This movie caused a lot of controversy because it focused on secret sexual rituals and the struggles of a married couple.

Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the film stars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman as a husband and wife dealing with hidden desires. The story begins with the wife confessing she once fantasized about another man. This revelation sends the husband on a journey of doubt and temptation.

Along the way, he finds himself at a strange event hosted by a secret society. There, masked individuals participate in unsettling sexual rituals.

Many viewers were shocked by the explicit scenes and felt the film pushed boundaries unnecessarily. Religious and conservative groups criticized it for being immoral and inappropriate.

If you’re a Tom Cruise fan, then you should know which of his movies are the worst. Check out the nine Tom Cruise movies that fans have criticized.

Kids (1995)

Kids shocked audiences with its raw and graphic portrayal of teenage behavior. The movie dealt with sensitive topics like sex, drugs, and HIV.

Directed by Larry Clark, the story takes place over one day in New York City. It focuses on Telly, a teenager who brags about sleeping with virgins. What he doesn’t know is that he has HIV and is spreading it to others.

Meanwhile, another character, Jenny, discovers she is infected and tries to find Telly to stop him. The movie also shows the reckless lives of other teens, including underage drinking and drug use.

Critics were deeply divided. Some praised the movie for addressing real-life issues that many films avoided. Others felt it was exploitative and glorified bad behavior. Parents and conservative groups called it harmful and inappropriate for any audience.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain faced backlash for its portrayal of a romantic relationship between two men, especially in conservative communities.

The film, directed by Ang Lee, stars Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal as Ennis and Jack, two cowboys who fall in love while working together in the Wyoming mountains.

Over two decades, their bond grows stronger, but societal pressures and their own fears force them to hide their feelings. Both men marry women and try to live conventional lives, but their connection continues to shape their choices.

Some conservative groups protested the film, calling it inappropriate and offensive. A few theaters refused to screen it.

However, the movie was widely praised by critics for its sensitive storytelling and emotional performances. It won several awards, including three Oscars, and broke barriers for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream cinema.

Today, Brokeback Mountain is celebrated as a groundbreaking film. It opened the door for more LGBTQ+ stories and helped start important conversations about love, identity, and acceptance.

Cannibal Holocaust (1980)

This horror movie became infamous for its graphic violence and real animal cruelty. It was banned in many countries and remains controversial even today.

Directed by Ruggero Deodato, the story follows a rescue team sent to the Amazon to find a missing documentary crew. What they discover is disturbing footage of the crew abusing the local tribes and suffering brutal deaths at the hands of the same people they exploited.

The most criticized aspect of the film was the treatment of animals on set. Several animals, including a turtle and a monkey, were killed on camera. This sparked outrage among animal rights activists and led to the film being banned in multiple countries. 

Authorities even accused the director of filming real human deaths. He had to prove in court that the actors were alive and the violence was staged.

Despite its troubling content, Cannibal Holocaust influenced the horror genre, especially found-footage films like The Blair Witch Project. However, its legacy is still marred by its unethical production practices.

Natural Born Killers (1994)

This movie caused a stir because of its extreme violence and claims that it inspired real-life crimes.

Directed by Oliver Stone, the film follows Mickey and Mallory, a couple who go on a killing spree across the United States. The story critiques how the media glamorizes violence, turning criminals into celebrities. The film uses flashy editing and surreal imagery to drive home its message, making it feel chaotic and unsettling.

Many critics worried that the movie’s violent scenes overshadowed its message. Some viewers misunderstood its satire and believed it celebrated the characters’ actions.

Worse, several real-life crimes were linked to the movie. In one case, criminals claimed they were inspired by Mickey and Mallory’s actions.

Despite the backlash, the movie was praised by others for its bold storytelling and critique of the media. It remains a controversial film that divides opinions about its impact and intentions.

Scarface (1983)

Scarface was criticized for its graphic violence, excessive drug use, and over-the-top portrayal of crime.

Directed by Brian De Palma, the movie tells the story of Tony Montana, played by Al Pacino, a Cuban immigrant who rises to power as a drug kingpin in Miami. The film shows Tony’s brutal rise and eventual downfall, filled with intense scenes of violence, betrayal, and greed.

When it first came out, some viewers were shocked by its graphic content. Critics argued that the movie glamorized crime and excess. Others praised it for its powerful performances and unforgettable dialogue. The famous “Say hello to my little friend!” the scene became a cultural phenomenon.

Over the years, Scarface became a cult classic. It is now seen as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of ambition and greed, but its intense content continues to spark debate.

Irreversible (2002)

Irreversible upset many people because of its brutal scenes of violence, including a long and graphic depiction of rape.

This French movie, directed by Gaspar Noé, tells its story backward. It starts with a man seeking revenge for something horrible and ends with the event that caused his anger. The most controversial part of the movie is a scene showing a woman being attacked and raped in an alley. The scene lasts for several minutes and is very difficult to watch.

Critics had mixed opinions. Some said the movie was a powerful way to show the effects of violence and trauma. Others felt it was too shocking and unnecessary. Many viewers couldn’t finish watching it because of how upsetting it was.

Even though it’s not for everyone, Irreversible is often discussed in film circles. Some people see it as an important but deeply disturbing piece of art.

Saw (2004)

Saw became known as one of the first movies to start the “torture porn” trend in horror. It had gruesome traps and lots of shocking violence.

Directed by James Wan, the movie is about two men trapped in a room by a killer known as Jigsaw. He forces them to play a deadly game where they must hurt themselves or each other to survive. The traps in the movie are graphic and terrifying, making viewers uncomfortable.

Some people thought the movie was creative and exciting because of its mystery and clever plot twists. Others criticized it for showing too much violence. It started a trend in horror movies where gruesome traps and torture became the main focus.

Despite the debates, Saw became a huge success. It turned into a long-running series and remains popular with horror fans who enjoy intense and scary stories.

The Human Centipede (2009)

This movie shocked audiences with its disgusting concept and extreme body horror.

The story is about a mad scientist who kidnaps three people and surgically attaches them to each other, forming a “human centipede.” The film shows graphic scenes of pain, surgery, and suffering. Many people found the idea disturbing and said it went too far.

Critics were divided. Some called it a gross-out film with no value, while others said it was a clever take on horror. The movie was banned in some places because of its disturbing content.

Even though it’s hard for many people to watch, The Human Centipede became famous for how extreme and shocking it was. It later inspired sequels, but all of them remain controversial.

Gone with the Wind (1939)

This movie is famous, but it has faced criticism for glorifying the South during the Civil War and ignoring the suffering of enslaved people.

The story follows Scarlett O’Hara, a wealthy Southern woman, as she tries to survive during and after the Civil War. The movie shows plantations as beautiful places and portrays the South in a romantic way. However, it doesn’t show the harsh realities of slavery or the suffering of Black people during that time.

Critics have said the film makes slavery seem less terrible than it was. Many people feel it ignores an important part of history. At the same time, the movie was praised for its acting and cinematography when it first came out.

Today, Gone with the Wind is still watched and discussed. Some people love it for its story and production, but others see it as a movie that fails to show the full truth about the past.

Black Panther (2018)

Black Panther was celebrated for its representation of African culture, but it also sparked debates because of its political messages.

The movie, directed by Ryan Coogler, tells the story of T’Challa, a king and superhero who leads the fictional African nation of Wakanda. The film features themes of colonialism, racism, and empowerment. It also has a villain, Killmonger, whose motivations made many viewers sympathize with him.

While most people praised the movie for its strong characters and cultural significance, some critics felt it was too political. They said it focused too much on race and societal issues instead of just being a fun superhero movie.

Despite these debates, Black Panther was a massive success. It became one of the highest-grossing Marvel movies and won several awards. It is now considered a groundbreaking film in Hollywood.

Cuties (2020)

This Netflix movie faced heavy criticism for how it portrayed young girls, with many accusing it of exploiting child actors.

The film, directed by Maïmouna Doucouré, is about an 11-year-old girl named Amy who joins a dance group. The movie shows her struggle between her strict family traditions and her desire to fit in with her peers. However, many scenes show the girls dancing in ways that some viewers felt were inappropriate.

Critics argued that the movie was meant to criticize the way society pressures young girls to act like adults. Others believed it went too far and was harmful to the child actors involved. Protests and calls to ban the film following its release.

Despite the backlash, some reviewers said the movie raised important issues about growing up. However, it remains one of the most controversial films in recent years.

The Help (2011)

The Help was criticized for using a “white savior” narrative and not focusing enough on Black voices.

The movie is set in Mississippi during the 1960s. It follows Skeeter, a young white journalist, who writes a book about the experiences of Black maids working for white families. The maids, played by Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, share their stories of racism and mistreatment.

While some viewers loved the film for shedding light on racism, others felt it centered too much on Skeeter’s perspective.

Despite these criticisms, The Help was popular with audiences and earned several awards. However, discussions about its portrayal of history and racial dynamics continue.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

This movie became famous for its unique style but upset some people because it misled audiences.

The story is about three film students who go into the woods to make a documentary about a local legend, the Blair Witch. The movie is shot in a “found footage” style, making it look like real footage from the students’ cameras. Viewers were told it was real, which caused a lot of confusion.

Some people loved how the movie created a sense of mystery and fear. Others felt tricked when they found out it was fictional. The shaky camera work also made some viewers feel sick, which led to complaints.

Despite the criticism, The Blair Witch Project was a huge success.

That’s all about 45 films that provoked national controversy.

If you’re interested in watching more movies, check out 16 top-notch Films Based on the Lives of Their Directors.