15 Controversial Movies That Actually Live Up To The Hype
7. The Devils
The Film:
Another religious drama, this one is directed by British director Ken Russell and focuses on religious corruption in 17th century France. Oliver Reed stars as a doomed priest, while Vanessa Redgrave co-stars as a hunchbacked nun. This is an underrated British classic and still packs a fearsome punch.
The Controversy:
Anti-religious themes, depraved scenes of sexuality, graphic violence... what's not to be offended by?
Why It Was Right:
The Devils has aged pretty well all things considered. Even if the violence seems tamer now, the film still has the power to shock and offend. In particular, there's a certain scene involving nuns which is unforgettable and shocking.
Sometimes people may feel that religious groups over-react to films, but in the case of The Devils the angry reaction was entirely justified. It is very deviant and the mixture of sexual and religious imagery remains shocking today. For all of the film's strengths, it does occasionally feel propaganda-like in its depiction of religious corruption and it will likely be uncomfortable to watch for certain religious viewers.
This is another film that shouldn't be watched by those who are easily disturbed. It caused so much controversy it's still largely unavailable on the home video market.