One controversial horror is so messed up it’s been banned in 17 countries.
Few films in cinema history have provoked as much revulsion and debate as this.
While many films push the boundaries of violence, depravity, and human suffering, the movie stands in a category of its own.
Unlike horror films such as Cannibal Holocaust (1980) or A Serbian Film (2010), which rely on shock and gore, this movie is rooted in historical atrocity and philosophical critique, making it all the more disturbing.
Even films like Schindler’s List (1993) and Requiem for a Dream (2000), known for their harrowing depictions of suffering, cannot match the sheer nihilism of Pasolini’s adaptation of the Marquis de Sade’s infamous novel.
The impact of the movie on audiences is undeniable. Many who have endured its brutal depictions of abuse and dehumanization struggle to find words to describe the experience.
“The most provocative and disturbing movie ever made in history,” one writes.
Another calls it: “A movie so disgusting that it makes you question the director’s mental health and motivation.”
“People, please don’t go and check this movie out for your own good. This s*** is disturbing,” pens a third.
Clearly, the film leaves an indelible mark on viewers, often eliciting extreme emotional responses.
Critics have been divided on Salo since its release. Some view it as a masterpiece of political and philosophical cinema, while others see it as an exercise in excess.
Roger Ebert refused to give the film a rating, stating, “This is not a film that can be judged by ordinary standards.”
Jonathan Rosenbaum of the Chicago Reader called it: “one of the most profoundly disturbing films ever made, yet essential for understanding the depths of fascism.”
On the other hand, Vincent Canby of The New York Times dismissed it as: “pointlessly grotesque, an experiment in shock that ultimately means nothing.”
Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975) by Pier Paolo Pasolini is set in the final days of Mussolini’s rule in Italy and follows four corrupt fascist libertines who kidnap 18 young men and women.
Over the course of four months, the captives are subjected to extreme physical, psychological, and sexual torture.
The film is divided into four sections, mirroring Dante’s Inferno, leading to an increasingly unbearable crescendo of horror.
Pasolini uses this structure to critique the abuse of power and the degradation of humanity.
The film has been banned in at least 10 to 15 countries due to its extreme depictions of violence, sexual abuse, and sadism.
Countries such as New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Norway, Sweden, and Germany have either outright banned or heavily censored the film at different points in time.
In the UK, it remained banned until 2000, while Australia and New Zealand imposed and lifted bans multiple times.
Some Canadian provinces prohibited its distribution, and even in the United States, authorities seized copies despite no official nationwide ban.
Despite its notoriety, Salo remains available for purchase and streaming.
The Criterion Collection offers a restored version on Blu-ray and DVD, while select platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV provide digital rentals.
Due to its extreme content, it is often banned or heavily restricted in various countries.
Watch the trailer for Salo here…
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