Horror movies have come a long way since the late 1800s, becoming gorier and more realistic with each passing year. The United States is known to have a relatively high tolerance for graphic content in horror movies, whereas other countries are not quite so tolerant. For various reasons, including cultural representation, mental health, and even controlling purposes, numerous horror films have been banned in some countries. This has sparked a debate on whether these bans truly constitute a violation of artistic liberties or if they are beneficial for the good of citizens–with people on both sides of this issue having valid arguments. Ultimately, one cannot deny that horror movie remain an integral part of modern entertainment and continue to provide chills and thrills for moviegoers around the world.

#1 Hostel 1 and 2

Hostels 1 and 2 shook the world with their mind-bending levels of graphic violence, shocking audiences around the globe. The movies captivated schoolgoers everywhere and sent backpackers on a scare fest as they traveled through Europe! Even though these films are banned in Ukraine for one, New Zealand & Germany for another – there’s no denying how much effect it still has to this day on cinema lovers worldwide. Love them or hate ’em, nothing can replace what Hostel brought to horror fans everywhere!
 

#2 The Human Centipede 2

The Human Centipede 2 pushed the boundaries of horror and shock, so much that it was banned in certain countries. Its graphic scenes and extreme violence created a lasting impression on those who had the courage to witness this bizarre sequel. Like its predecessor, viewers either embraced or despised its disturbing vision – but one thing is for sure: no other film has been as uniquely shocking!
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#3 The Exorcist

The Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin and written by William Peter Blatty, is a bone-chilling horror movie that draws inspiration from the 1971 novel of the same name. The plot centers around a 12-year-old girl who becomes possessed by a demon, and her mother’s desperate attempts to save her from an exorcism performed by two priests. The film’s excellence speaks for itself, having won multiple awards including two Academy Awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. What sets this horror classic apart from others of its time is its emphasis on psychological terror over physical violence. The movie’s realistic portrayal of demonic possession and use of music and sound design have helped to justify and advance the modern horror genre.
 

#4 I Spit on Your Grave

A powerful but troublesome movie, it piques the interest of many yet simultaneously disturbs them with its potent themes regarding violence and justice. This unsettling character has led to complete censorship in some countries – particularly Iceland due largely to graphic scenes therein – while other nations rejected it for different reasons. Nevertheless, despite intense opposition there were places that allowed audiences a glimpse into this controversial work; Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Quebec all saw brief public showings… sparking debate around which opinions should be accepted or challenged ever since.
 

 

#5 World War Z

What makes the ban on the film World War Z particularly intriguing is the reasoning behind it. The movie itself may not be particularly controversial or offensive, but it falls victim to a much larger issue. The ban essentially stems from China’s disapproval of a completely different movie. Brad Pitt’s 1997 film Seven Years in Tibet was banned due to its portrayal of Chinese soldiers as villains. As a result, any of Pitt’s films are not allowed in China, including World War Z. It’s fascinating how the actions of one film can have such a far-reaching impact, even years later. It raises questions about censorship, artistic expression, and the power of governments to control what their citizens consume.
 

#6 Land of the Dead

Ukraine’s ban on the hit TV show, ‘The Walking Dead,’ has been linked to its depiction of cannibalism. While zombies in the show were not the problem, their depiction of the taboo topic caused offense due to ‘cultural sensitivities.’ Maksym Rostotsky, a representative from the Ministry of Culture, emphasized that the memory of the Holodomor still lingers in the country. The famine brought on in 1933 is still a traumatic event for Ukrainian society, which also witnessed episodes of cannibalism. The ban serves as a reminder of the sensitivity and respect that we all need to have for the cultural history of different nations.
 

#7 Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Controversy seems to follow this film wherever it goes. Banned by some US theaters and several countries around the world, it’s almost as if the movie was destined to be a lightning rod for controversy. Even those willing to show it have faced viewer complaints and protests. It’s clear that this film challenges viewers in one way or another, making it impossible to ignore. Despite all of its challenges, it has managed to find its audience, even if it’s a smaller one than originally anticipated. Whether you love it or hate it, this film definitely leaves an impression.
 

Final Words

Controversy is a part of art, and it’s clear that these seven films are no exception. Whether they were banned due to content, cultural sensitivities, or politics, it’s clear that censorship still has a tight grip on certain countries and cultures. This does not mean that you cannot enjoy or experience true fear from these horror games.

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