13 Blockbusters That Almost Got Banned
Several popular movies faced serious threats of bans due to their content, politics, or controversies.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Some blockbuster films came close to being banned in certain countries or markets. Their themes, violence, or political messages sparked strong reactions. These controversies almost stopped them from reaching audiences, but many overcame the obstacles and became hits.
1. The Interview (2014)
Point Grey Pictures, LStar Capital on Wikimedia Commons
This comedy about a plot to assassinate North Korea’s leader caused an international incident. North Korea condemned the film and threatened retaliation. The movie’s release was canceled in many theaters due to security concerns. It was eventually released online and in limited theaters.
2. The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Dieric Bouts on Wikimedia Commons
This film’s portrayal of Jesus imagining a normal life sparked outrage among religious groups. It was banned or heavily restricted in several countries, and protests and threats targeted cinemas that planned to show it. The controversy raised debates about artistic freedom and religious respect.
3. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Marmolejo1489 on Wikimedia Commons
Because of its graphic violence and sexual content, the movie was banned in multiple countries. Director Stanley Kubrick himself requested it be withdrawn from UK cinemas due to threats and vandalism. It remained banned in some places for years before being allowed again.
4. Joker (2019)
Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma on Wikimedia Commons
The film’s intense portrayal of a troubled man and social unrest caused fears it might inspire violence. Some countries delayed or censored its release. It faced warnings from officials but was not fully banned anywhere. It still sparked debates about media responsibility.
5. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
New Line Cinema on Wikimedia Commons
This horror movie was considered so disturbing that some countries banned it outright. Several U.S. states also restricted its screening. It was accused of promoting violence and causing psychological harm. Today, it is a classic but faced major bans early on.
6. The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Magnus Manske on Wikimedia Commons
The graphic depiction of Jesus’ crucifixion led to bans or restrictions in some countries. Religious groups both supported and protested the film. Some feared it might incite violence or offend certain communities. Despite this, it became a huge financial success.
7. Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004)
Georges Biard on Wikimedia Commons
Michael Moore’s documentary criticizing the U.S. government’s actions after 9/11 was banned in some countries. It was seen as politically sensitive and controversial, and certain networks refused to air it. It remained banned or censored in places where its message was unwelcome.
8. Borat (2006)
Skssoft on Wikimedia Commons
The movie’s satirical take on culture and politics angered several countries. Some governments banned it for mocking their societies. There were also legal challenges from people portrayed in the film. Despite this, it became a commercial success.
9. The Birth of a Nation (1915)
D. W. Griffith on Wikimedia Commons
This silent film was banned in several cities for its racist content and portrayal of the Ku Klux Klan. It sparked protests and riots. It remains one of the most controversial films in history. It was banned in the UK and other countries for years.
10. Persepolis (2007)
IgorCalzone1 on Wikimedia Commons
This animated film about growing up during the Iranian Revolution was banned in Iran because its political content was seen as critical of the government. Despite this, it won international acclaim. It remains banned or censored in several Middle Eastern countries.
11. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)
United Artists Europa on Wikimedia Commons
This horror film was banned in many countries for extreme violence and animal cruelty. The director was even arrested on suspicion of making a snuff film. The movie was considered too graphic and disturbing for public viewing. It remains banned or restricted in many places.
12. The Da Vinci Code (2006)
Timothy E Baldwin on Wikimedia Commons
The movie faced bans and protests for its portrayal of religious themes. Some countries blocked it for offending Christian beliefs. It sparked debates over freedom of religion versus artistic expression. Despite bans, it was a global box office hit.
13. Deadpool (2016)
TriiipleThreat on Wikimedia Commons
Despite being a superhero movie, Deadpool pushed boundaries with graphic violence, sexual content, and crude humor. Due to its explicit material, it was denied release in China. Efforts to produce a censored version failed, and the film remained banned there. Other countries also considered restricting it, though it saw huge success where it was allowed.