4. The Exorcist - Crucifix Self Abuse (1973)
The Exorcist really made a huge impact in the 1970s and it is easy for us modern viewers to forget or underestimate just how shocked audiences were back in 1973. The idea that this angelic little girl - Regan - could be turned into a projectile vomiting, revolving head, profanities shouting, evil demon was an horrific concept, the likes of which had never been seen before in mainstream cinema. Added to that was the fact that the film was expertly cast and filmed. It was a serious film, not exploitation. Given all of the above factors, you can imagine how audiences were astounded at the possessed Regan self abusing herself with a crucifix while spewing forth "Let Jesus f**k you!". Such blasphemy in films was unheard of, and to come from the mouth of a young girl, it blasted the controversial quotient of this scene.