3. Pier Paolo Pasolini
Most Controversial Film: Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom Long before his final film, Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom was in production, Pier Paolo Pasolini was a highly controversial figure as he was noted for being both a communist and homosexual, two things frowned upon now, let alone in post-war Italy that was still highly fascist. Censorship had always been an enemy of Pasolini as his films featured characters that were pimps and prostitutes and portrayed a grim view of reality. From his poetic debut, Accattone to his infamous final masterpiece, Salo, or the 129 Days of Salem, Pasolini fought for his artistic integrity and in many ways, his life mirrors that of the pimp from Accattone. Pasolini really reached another level of controversy with Salo which was released shortly after his tragic murder at the young age of 53. Salo features scenes of horrific violence in the most explicit manner, but beneath the brutality of the piece is a scathing attack on fascism and corrupt politicians. The film, set in 1943, after the fall of Mussolini's fascist rule focuses on four men of power as they kidnap 9 teenage girls and 9 teenage boys and subject them to months of intense torture and sadistic humiliation. It's a powerful piece of genius that is often misunderstood, but it's clear to see why it has become so infamous and controversial. The scenes of torture are unrelenting and take a lot of will to stomach. In a poetic way, the fierce, angry and personal Salo was a perfect way to conclude a majestic and very controversial career.