Lights, Camera, Controversy: These Movies Offend People

Monica September 6, 2023

Me, Myself & Irene (2000)

The film Me, Myself & Irene is about a man with schizophrenia. That’s not the offensive part, the offensive part is the way it’s portrayed. It’s a misconception that people with schizophrenia have multiple personalities, and the film portrays it the wrong way. It even went so far as to have taglines like, “from mental to gentle,” and even makes fun of yeast infections and obesity. It wasn’t common in the year 2000 to bat an eye when someone offended someone with a mental disorder, which is something that wouldn’t fly now (via NY Post).

<< Previous

NEXT >>

White Chicks (2004)

The film White Chicks portrays two black detectives who go undercover as two white women. The film makes fun of white stereotypes, which would never be made nowadays, considering how offensive it is. The NY Times famously said, “Most movies require some suspension of disbelief. But White Chicks […] requires something more radical than that. A full-frontal lobotomy might be a good place to start.” Comedies from the early 2000s are just not worth watching anymore, especially because of how many better ones there are out there (via Movie Web).

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Basic Instinct (1992)

Despite the famous Sharon Stone flash, this film is offensive. It portrays women and lesbians from the LGBTQ community in a bad light. Directors weren’t supposed to show the scene that made her famous, and they went against their word (via Decider).

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

The second Ace Ventura was much better than the first one. The directors built the plot around offensive phobias. For example, Ace scrubs his mouth after he realizes he kissed a transgender woman. The movie was long and unfunny. If you’re going to spend your time watching a movie, there are much better ones out there (via Secret Life of Mom).

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Freaks (1932)

This 1932 film portrays a circus performer who plans to murder one of her fellow performers, all in the name of money. Even in the 1930’s, people considered the film controversial, and it’s grown worse as the years have passed. Many people found it offensive because it showcases real performers in circus freak shows. There was a bearded lady, Siamese twins, and an “armless wonder.” It was even banned in Britain and various states in Australia and America (via Collider).

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Blazing Saddles (1974)

The concept of Blazing Saddles was controversial, and if it were attempted to be released today, it wouldn’t make it very far. It contains explicitly racist scenes. Classic Movie host Jacqueline Stweart said, “Absolutely nothing is off limits, and jokes can tackle every sensitive subject.” It was sprinkled with social commentary regarding societal issues, though there are still people who are diehard fans of the film (via The Wrap).

<< Previous