The years pass, generations change. The jokes that have been successful in the past today seem offensive or out of place. Among the problematic stereotypes, racism and sexism, some films that have been successful in the previous decades may not be well welcomed if released today. We have collected eight examples that, seen with today’s eyes, raise important discussions.
8 films released in the past that would be very controversial today
Lolita (1997)
In a society where women still fight for respect, “Lollita” brings one step less to all of us. The film portrays the vision of a middle -aged man who is attracted to a preteen, so that the plot makes it difficult to see when pedophilia and the objectification of women are still relevant themes in our society.
“Lolita” tells the passion of Professor Humbert Humbert for the young Dolores Haze, who affectionately calls Lolita. Attracted by his stepdaughter, Humbert marries Lolita’s mother just to be close to her. After the death of her mother, Humbert brings Lolita to a journey, where their relationship becomes more and more complex and controversial.
And the wind took (1939)
Although it is a classic of cinema, the film romanticizes slavery and the south of the United States before the civil war. The representation of the black characters and the narrative that minimizes the brutality of slavery would be severely criticized today.
Scarlett O’Hara is a spoiled young woman who gets everything she wants. However, something is missing in your life: Ashley Wilkes’ love, a southern nobleman who should marry his cousin Melanie. Everything changes when the American civil war explodes and Scarlett must fight to survive and maintain the family farm.
Sixteen Velas (1984)
Although “sixteen candles” or “sixteen candles” are a beloved classic of the 80s, it is not immune to criticism, especially if seen through modern lenses. In the plot, we have:
The film follows Samantha Baker, a teenager who faces the drama of his sixteenth birthday to be completely forgotten by his family. While he has to do with his passion not corresponding to the most popular boy in the school, Sam sails in the typical anguish and humiliation of adolescence. The film portrays with humor and sensitivity the search for identity and acceptance, surprising characteristics of John Hughes’ films.
The birth of a nation (1915)
The work is widely criticized by its racist representation and by the glorification of Ku Klux Klan. In addition to perpetuating harmful stereotypes on African Americans, portraying them as wild and threatening. The narration novels the Slavocrata and minimizes the brutality of slavery, promoting a distorted and offensive vision of American history.
Two brothers of the Stoneman family visits Cameron in Piedmont, in the South Carolina. This friendship is influenced by the civil war, while Cameron enlisted in the confederated army while the Stoneman joins the union forces.
The Mighty Boss (1972)
Despite being an acclaimed classic, the film romanticly romantings the mafia and violence, which could generate criticism of the glorification of organized crime. In addition, the representation of women in the film is limited and stereotyped.
A family of the mafia struggles to establish its supremacy in the United States after the Second World War. An attempt to murder leaves the boss Vito Corleone disabled and forces his children Michael and Sonny to win business.
The last tango in Paris
The actress Maria Schneider, who played the character Jeanne, reported that she had not been informed about the explicit nature of the scene, who foreseen the rape simulation and who felt humiliated and violated during filming. He described the experience as “a kind of rape” and expressed regret for participating in the film.
In addition, the romanticization of sexual violence and the lack of respect for the well -being of the actress are widely condemned.
While looking for an apartment in Paris, an American, whose wife recently committed suicide, meets an attractive young woman. At the same time, one wishes the other ardent. The couple begins a prolonged sexual relationship, but purely anonymous in which they do not even say their names, but the events run away from their control.
Breakfast at Tiffany (1961)
“Luxury Doll” is a memorable classic, especially for Audrey Hepburn, but sins for racial prejudices. The characterization of Mickey Rooney as Mr. Yunioshi, a character of the Japanese descent, is full of offensive stereotypes and is widely considered a negative example in the history of racial representation in American cinema.
“Luxury Doll” (1961) accompanies Holly Golightly, an eccentric young woman who dreams of a wealth in New York. He is involved with the writer Paul Varjak, his neighbor, while looking for a millionaire husband. The film portrays the search for identity and happiness in the glamor of the high society. Despite the facade of joy, Holly hides a complex and deep solitude.
Wild Instinct (1992)
From the stereotypical representation of bisexuality to female objectiveness and to the controversial script, the film “Wild Instinct” disappoints in one result and hit another one.
“Wild Instinct” (1992) follows the detective Nick Curran in the investigation into a brutal murder, in which the main suspicion is Catherine Tramell, a seductive and manipulative writer. Nick is involved in a dangerous match of seduction and suspected with Catherine while trying to find out if he is the assassin.
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Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
