7 Upcoming Films Destined For Controversy

One of the biggest names associated with the New French Extremity movement, Gaspar Noé's films are known for their disorienting visuals, brutal violence, and graphic sexuality, often interlinked. All of his previous films (Irréversible, Enter the Void, LOVE) have prompted walk-outs at various film festivals for their extreme content. So aware of the backlash against his work is Noé that the first poster released for Climax boasted about the vitriol levied against him: "You despised I Stand Alone. You hated Irréversible. You loathed Enter the Void. You cursed LOVE. Now try Climax."

Climax debuted at the Cannes Film Festival back in May to surprisingly rave reviews. Noé himself even expressed shock that less audience members walked out than normal. Picked up by A24 for US distribution, Climax could be the first Noé film released to a somewhat mainstream audience. Though those initiated to Noé's work may not be as aghast at the film's extreme content as before, expect hatred and disgust from audiences not attuned to Noé's work and the New French Extremity movement.

Taking place in 1996 and based on true events, Climax follows a group of hip-hop dancers whose party turns nightmarish as it is discovered that somebody spiked their sangria bowl with LSD. With a cast of professional dancers and the only somewhat-recognizable name being Sofia Boutella, Climax sounds like an extreme, hypnotic nightmare. It can be assured that audiences will not be ready for the content, nor will they be ready for Noé's hellish vision.