10 Movies That Got Banned in One Country but Celebrated in Another
Movies that ignite outrage and bans in one country often become beloved cultural icons in another, revealing how art can fiercely clash with — and celebrate — the world’s diverse values.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
Movies subject to bans or censorship in one nation tend to have ardent fans and praise in others, exposing the strong influence of cultural context on the reception of art. Such films push boundaries of what is acceptable society-wise, political-wise, or religious-wise, fanning raging battles over freedom of expression or moral limits. A look at this conflict points to not only the richness of global values but also how film can upset, inspire, and bring audiences together across borders in spite of outrage.
1. The Interview (2014)
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Forbidden in North Korea for its satirical depiction of Kim Jong-un, The Interview set off global headlines with its plot to assassinate the dictator. The U.S. and most Western nations hailed it as a gutsy, irreverent comedy defying authoritarianism. Its notoriety even spawned a high-profile cyberattack attributed to North Korean hackers, making the film a free speech icon.
2. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
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Stanley Kubrick’s unnerving dystopian movie was banned in the UK upon release because of its explicit violence and sex, with Kubrick himself pulling it from British theaters for decades. In the United States, however, it was greeted as a groundbreaking, controversial film on the themes of free will and control of society. Decades later, it became a cult favorite and a cornerstone of censorship debates and the place of film as art.
3. The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
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Martin Scorsese’s redefinition of the life of Jesus was banned in nations such as Turkey and violently protested among all major religious groups for its provocative exploration of Christ’s humanity and temptation. However, within the United States and most of Europe, it was acclaimed for its visionary artistic courage and philosophical maturity. The film initiated long-lasting controversies regarding religious freedom and artistic expression.
4. Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975)
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Pier Paolo Pasolini’s brutally graphic depiction of fascist depravity was banned outright in several countries, including the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe, for decades. In art-house circles and film festivals worldwide, however, it’s regarded as a powerful political allegory about power, corruption, and cruelty. Its shocking content challenges viewers but remains a critical text on authoritarian regimes.
5. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)
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This horror movie was banned in several nations, such as Italy, Norway, and the UK, because of extreme violence and reported animal cruelty. Its found-footage approach generates doubt regarding whether the fatalities were genuine. Regardless of the prohibitions, it earned cult status throughout the world for its innovative application of the found-footage format and social comment on media exploitation. Nowadays, it’s taught about its provocative influence on horror films and censorship.
6. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
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Banned in nations such as the UK, Germany, and Australia for extreme violence and horror, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre horrified viewers with its raw, graphic aesthetic. In America, it grew to become a cult slasher favorite that inspired generations of filmmakers working in the horror genre. Its controversy gave it a cult following that praised its originality and haunting atmosphere.
7. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
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This pioneering romantic drama about a same-sex couple was banned in many countries, such as China and the Middle East, due to cultural taboos. However, in the West, it was universally acclaimed, winning numerous Academy Awards and hailed as emotionally engaging and socially relevant. It was a milestone in LGBTQ+ cultural representation in mainstream film.
8. Persepolis (2007)
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Based on Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel about growing up during the Iranian Revolution, Persepolis was banned in Iran for its critical portrayal of the regime and its secular themes. Internationally, it won critical acclaim for its unique animation style and poignant political message. The film became a powerful voice against oppression and a celebration of personal freedom and identity.
9. Pink Flamingos (1972)
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John Waters’ camp classic was banned in several nations, including the UK and Australia, on the grounds of explicit, transgressive content and shock value. In underground and LGBTQ+ circles, it was celebrated as a brave camp masterpiece that defied taste and censorship. Its memory lives on as a sign of counterculture cinema’s iconoclasm.
10. Schindler’s List (1993)
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Steven Spielberg’s harrowing Holocaust drama was banned in Malaysia for its graphic violence and nudity, with authorities claiming it was “Jewish propaganda.” Meanwhile, in much of the world, including the U.S. and Europe, it was celebrated as a cinematic masterpiece, winning seven Academy Awards and praised for its historical significance and emotional depth. Its global acclaim cemented it as one of the most powerful anti-genocide films ever made.