For decades, certain horror films have been deemed too terrifying, too graphic, or too disturbing for public consumption—earning them bans and heavy censorship around the world. Yet today, many of these cinematic outcasts have found new life on streaming platforms, allowing UK audiences to experience their controversial magic from the comfort of their sofas.
The Video Nasties That Shocked a Nation
During the 1980s, Britain witnessed a moral panic over so-called "video nasties"—films considered so extreme they faced prosecution under the Obscene Publications Act. What many horror enthusiasts don't realise is that several of these once-banned titles are now readily available through mainstream streaming services.
1. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Tobe Hooper's gritty masterpiece faced bans in several countries despite containing surprisingly little on-screen gore. Its relentless tension and documentary-style realism proved too much for censors, who failed to appreciate its artistic merit. Today, it stands as a horror classic available on multiple UK platforms.
2. The Exorcist (1973)
William Friedkin's supernatural shocker caused cinema-goers to faint in aisles and prompted calls for outright bans. Its depiction of demonic possession and religious themes sparked outrage, yet it remains one of the most influential horror films ever made—now streaming without controversy.
3. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)
Ruggero Deodato's controversial film faced legal challenges and was banned in multiple countries due to its graphic violence and animal cruelty. The director was even arrested on obscenity charges. Its notoriety persists, but determined viewers can now find it on specialist streaming services.
From Banned to Mainstream
What makes these films particularly fascinating is their journey from cultural pariahs to streaming staples. The Human Centipede 2, once rejected by the British Board of Film Classification for its "unremitting focus on sexual assault and bodily waste," eventually received a heavily cut certificate and now appears on streaming platforms in its entirety.
Similarly, A Serbian Film, described by critics as one of the most disturbing films ever made, faced widespread bans but can now be accessed by UK audiences willing to brave its controversial content.
Why These Films Still Matter
Beyond their shock value, these banned films represent important moments in cinema history. They challenge boundaries, provoke discussion about censorship, and often reflect societal anxieties of their time. From the folk horror of The Wicker Man to the psychological terror of Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, each title offers unique insights into the evolution of horror storytelling.
As streaming services continue to democratise access to controversial content, modern audiences can judge for themselves whether these once-forbidden films live up to their notorious reputations—or if time has softened their terrifying impact.
