Explore the top 20 Banned movies to watch in Netherlands [2024] (2024)

Throughout the years, certain films have found themselves on the fringes of the cinematic world, earning the label of being banned movies. These films, often draped in controversy, have been barred from screens in various countries for a myriad of reasons, from extreme violence and explicit content to political subtext that rattles the status quo.

I’ve curated a list of 20 such films that have faced the ban hammer in Netherlands, each offering a unique glimpse into the artistry and issues that led to their censorship.

Check out these cinematic rebels, whose very existence challenges perceptions and tests the boundaries of film as a medium for free expression.

1. Barbie (2023)

Director: Greta Gerwig
Writer: Greta Gerwig, Noah Baumbach
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Cast: Margot Robbie, Issa Rae, Kate McKinnon, Alexandra Shipp
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Run Time: 1h 54m

Directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, “Barbie” takes viewers on a whimsical journey as Barbie and Ken navigate the real world after leaving Barbie Land. The film’s vibrant storytelling and humor promise to captivate audiences.

However, it was banned in Vietnam due to a controversial map depicting the nine-dash line, a political issue related to China’s territorial claims. This incident underscores the challenges of incorporating geopolitical elements into films.

2. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Director: Sam Raimi
Writer: Michael Waldron, Stan Lee, Steve Ditko
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong
IMDb: 6.9/10
Run Time: 2h 6m

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” directed by Sam Raimi and starring Benedict Cumberbatch, takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the multiverse. The film’s stunning visuals and expanded Marvel Cinematic Universe make it a must-watch.

However, the inclusion of a same-sex couple in America Chavez’s backstory led to bans in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. Despite this, the film grossed $955 million, highlighting its global appeal.

3. Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)

Director: Kyle Balda, Brad Ableson
Writer: Matthew Fogel, Brian Lynch
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Cast: Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Alan Arkin, Taraji P. Henson
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Run Time: 1h 27m

The Minions franchise has captivated audiences worldwide, but the sequel Minions: The Rise of Gru encountered unexpected hurdles, landing on the movies banned in the US list. In Lebanon, the film was banned due to the portrayal of a character named Nun-chuck, a nun who wields nun-chucks, leading to accusations of depicting nuns as malevolent figures.

This decision underscores the diverse reasons behind movie bans, ranging from religious sensitivities to political tensions.

4. Lightyear (2022)

Director: Angus MacLane
Writer: Angus MacLane, Matthew Aldrich, Jason Headley
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
Cast: Chris Evans, Keke Palmer, Peter Sohn, Taika Waititi
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Run Time: 1h 45m

Pixar’s Lightyear offers a unique angle on a beloved character from the Toy Story franchise. However, this family-friendly film found itself on the restricted movies list in 14 countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The cause of the ban was a scene depicting a same-sex couple sharing a kiss, a representation that led to the film being prohibited in locations with strict guidelines on LGBTQ+ content.

Lightyear is a testament to the evolving nature of movies banned due to social and cultural sensitivities, prompting discussions about inclusion and diversity in global cinema. The fantasy genre has been trendy these days; that’s why I have compiled a list of the best fantasy movies for you in Netherlands.

5. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

Director: Sam Taylor-Johnson
Writer: Kelly Marcel, E.L. James
Genre: Drama, Romance, Thriller
Cast: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Jennifer Ehle, Eloise Mumford
IMDb Rating: 4.2/10
Run Time: 2h 5m

When it comes to watch banned movies online, Fifty Shades of Grey is a title that often pops up on various banned movies list. Known for pushing the boundaries of mainstream erotic romance, the film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, stars Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan in a tale of a complex romantic relationship.

Despite its commercial success and popularity, it faced bans in countries like Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia due to its explicit sexual content, which led to concerns about it bordering on p*rnography.

For those curious about where to watch banned movies, Fifty Shades of Grey can be found on various streaming platforms, allowing viewers to delve into its controversial narrative.

6. The Human Centipede 2 (2011)

Director: Tom Six
Writer: Tom Six
Genre: Horror
Cast: Laurence R. Harvey, Ashlynn Yennie, Maddi Black, Kandace Caine
IMDb Rating: 3.8/10
Runtime: 1h 31m

“The Human Centipede 2 (2011)” is banned in several countries due to its extreme and graphic content. The sequel intensifies the disturbing elements of the first film, featuring detailed scenes of sexual violence, graphic mutilation, and extreme cruelty.

Bans were implemented because of the film’s intense violence, explicit sexual assault, and distressing acts of mutilation and sadism. Countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand banned the film for pushing the boundaries of acceptable on-screen violence and horror.

7. A Serbian Film (2010)

Director: Srdjan Spasojevic
Writer: Aleksandar Radivojevic, Srdjan Spasojevic
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Cast: Srdjan ‘Zika’ Todorovic, Sergej Trifunovic, Jelena Gavrilovic, Slobodan Bestic
IMDb Rating: 5.0/10
Runtime: 1h 44m

“A Serbian Film” is one of the most disturbing horror movies ever, known for its graphic and repulsive content. It follows Milos, an aging p*rnstar who unknowingly signs up for a snuff film featuring extreme violence, pedophilia, and necrophilia.

The film’s shock value overshadows its political messages, making it one of the most harrowing cinematic experiences. It is banned in several countries, including the Philippines, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Norway, and Brazil, with only censored versions allowed in a few places.

8. The Human Centipede: The First Sequence (2009)

Director: Tom Six
Writer: Tom Six
Genre: Horror
Cast: Dieter Laser, Winter Williams, Ashlynn Yennie
IMDb Rating: 4.4/10
Runtime: 1h 32m

“The Human Centipede,” a shocking Dutch film, redefined the body horror genre by depicting a German surgeon surgically attaching three tourists to form a “centipede” made of humans. The film’s graphic violence and body horror led to significant controversy and heavy bans.

Banned in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Iceland, “The Human Centipede” faced widespread censorship. Its sequel, “The Human Centipede 2,” was subject to even stricter bans for exacerbating the horrific elements of the first film. Few viewers could endure the distressing content of either movie or the third installment without cringing.

9. Martyrs (2008)

Director: Pascal Laugier
Writer: Pascal Laugier
Genre: Horror
Cast: Morjana Alaoui, Mylène Jampanoï, Catherine Bégin
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Runtime: 1h 39m

“Martyrs” is a 2008 French horror film about two women seeking vengeance against a mysterious cult. Known for its realistic effects and graphic content, the film elicited strong reactions, with audiences walking out, vomiting, or fainting during its premieres at French film festivals.

These reactions led to an initial 18+ rating by the French film rating system, severely limiting its audience. After an appeal, the rating was lowered to 16+, but the film’s extreme violence meant it was released directly to DVD in the US.

“Martyrs” is a stark exploration of the extremes of pain and the search for what lies beyond, where its shock value aligns with its intense premise.

10. The Simpsons Movie (2007)

Director: David Silverman
Writer: James L. Brooks, Matt Groening
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Cast: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Run Time: 1h 27m

The Simpsons Movie, directed by David Silverman, brings the beloved TV family to the silver screen in a grand, humorous escapade. The film’s ban in Burma, now Myanmar, was for a reason as colorful as the film itself: the fear that the yellow-skinned characters could be associated with a rebel group.

This peculiar rationale for censorship shows the diverse factors beyond content that can influence a film’s availability. Despite this ban, the movie enjoyed a successful global release, and I personally found it to be a delightful extension of the series’ humor and wit.

You can also browse through Korean horror movies and watch them on your big screen in Netherlands.

11. Persepolis (2007)

Director: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi
Writer: Marjane Satrapi, Vincent Paronnaud
Genre: Animation, Drama, Biography
Cast: Chiara Mastroianni, Catherine Deneuve, Danielle Darrieux, Simon Abkarian
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Run Time: 1h 36m

“Persepolis,” co-directed by Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud, is an animated autobiographical film depicting Satrapi’s experiences during the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Its striking black-and-white animation beautifully complements the personal, often harrowing story.

Despite international acclaim and an Academy Award nomination, “Persepolis” faced bans in Iran and Lebanon due to its portrayal of the Islamic revolution. This controversy highlights the power of film to reflect and influence societal views.

For those interested in poignant narratives, “Persepolis” is available to watch online. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the struggle for freedom and identity.

12. The Da Vinci Code (2006)

Director: Ron Howard
Writer: Akiva Goldsman, Dan Brown
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Cast: Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen, Jean Reno
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Run Time: 2h 29m

When I first watched “The Da Vinci Code,” directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, I was captivated by its mix of historical artistry and suspenseful storytelling. The film follows symbologist Robert Langdon, whouncovers a deep secret within the Catholic Church.

Despite its success, the film was banned in countries like Pakistan, Egypt, Samoa, and Sri Lanka due to its controversial themes suggesting an alternative history of Christianity. This controversy only heightened its appeal.

For those intrigued by religion, art, and conspiracy theories, “The Da Vinci Code” is a must-watch in Netherlands. It challenges historical norms and encourages debate.

13. Zoolander (2001)

Director: Ben Stiller
Writer: Drake Sather, Ben Stiller, John Hamburg
Genre: Comedy
Cast: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Christine Taylor, Will Ferrell
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Run Time: 1h 30m

Ben Stiller’s Zoolander is often remembered for its satirical take on the fashion industry, but it’s also noted among the top banned movies for different reasons. The film’s plot involving the attempted assassination of the Malaysian prime minister led to its ban in Malaysia, and its mention of the country was replaced with Micronesia in the Asian release.

This alteration highlights the lengths some films go to to navigate regional sensitivities. It’s an intriguing case of geopolitical issues intersecting with the world of comedy, and it remains relevant for those studying most disturbing banned movies due to non-violent content.

14. South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut (1999)

Director: Trey Parker
Writer: Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Pam Brady
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Fantasy
Cast: Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Mary Kay Bergman, Isaac Hayes
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Run Time: 1h 21m

Unsurprisingly, “South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut” was banned in several countries. In this film, an R-rated Terrance and Phillip movie triggers an invasion of Canada, and it’s up to Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny to save the day in one of the best-animated musicals not made by Disney.

Known for courting controversy, Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s film earned a Guinness World Record for “Most Swearing in an Animated Movie.” Its heavy use of profanity and the portrayal of Saddam Hussein as Satan’s gay lover drew the ire of numerous censor boards.

According to the LA Times, Hussein himself banned the movie in Iraq, cementing its reputation as a source of provocative, inflammatory humor.

15. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)

Director: Ruggero Deodato
Writer: Gianfranco Clerici, Giorgio Stegani
Genre: Adventure, Horror
Cast: Robert Kerman, Francesca Ciardi, Perry Pirkanen, Luca Barbareschi
IMDb Rating: 5.8/10
Runtime: 1h 35m

The 1980 Italian film “Cannibal Holocaust” sparked significant controversy for its graphic depictions of violence and sexual assault. It follows an anthropologist searching the Amazon for a missing film crew studying cannibalistic tribes.

Banned in multiple countries, including Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Norway, Finland, and Iceland, the film heavily relies on gore, including real animal killings.

This led to its ban in Italy and a five-year ban in the US for animal cruelty and extreme violence. The film was so realistic that director Ruggero Deodato was charged with murder, as people believed actual murders occurred on screen.

16. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

Director: Tobe Hooper
Writer: Kim Henkel, Tobe Hooper
Genre: Horror
Cast: Marilyn Burns, Allen Danziger, Paul A. Partain, William Vail
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Run Time: 1h 23m

While it might seem tame by today’s standards, “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” was one of the most terrifying horror films released and remains one of the best slasher films available for streaming.

The film follows five friends who, after running out of gas while traveling through Texas, are picked off one by one by the chainsaw-wielding Leatherface and his crazed, cannibalistic family.

“The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” stirred significant controversy due to its violent content and was initially refused classification in Australia and the UK, according to the British Board of Film Classification’s website.

Subsequent resubmissions passed with an R rating, and the film was banned in Germany, Norway, Ireland, Singapore, Sweden, and Iceland.

17. A Clockwork Orange (1971)

Director: Stanley Kubrick
Writer: Stanley Kubrick, Anthony Burgess
Genre: Crime, Sci-Fi
Cast: Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Run Time: 2h 16m

One of Stanley Kubrick’s most celebrated works, “A Clockwork Orange,” was also highly controversial. The film follows teenage psychopath Alex (Malcolm McDowell), who is imprisoned for rape and murder. When he volunteers for an experimental rehabilitation program to shorten his sentence, his life spirals out of control.

Due to its graphic content and scenes of sexual violence, “A Clockwork Orange” was banned for decades in countries such as Ireland, Brazil, South Africa, and Singapore. After Kubrick and his family received death threats, he had the movie pulled from UK theaters, and it remained difficult to see until after he died in 1999.

18. Battleship Potemkin (1925)

Director: Sergei Eisenstein
Writer: Nina Agadzhanova, Sergei Eisenstein
Genre: Drama, History, Thriller
Cast: Aleksandr Antonov, Vladimir Barskiy, Grigoriy Aleksandrov, Ivan Bobrov
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Run Time: 1h 6m

“Battleship Potemkin,” directed by Sergei Eisenstein, dramatizes the 1905 mutiny of Russian sailors against oppressive officers. This silent film is a masterful example of cinema as political expression, depicting the sailors’ fight for justice.

Released between World War I and World War II, the film was banned in France and the UK due to fears it would inspire rebellion with its anti-war message. Despite the ban, it remains influential for its artistic and historical significance.

For those interested in classic cinema, watching “Battleship Potemkin” online offers a powerful glimpse into the past and the film’s impact as social commentary.

19. The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Nikos Kazantzakis, Paul Schrader
Genre: Drama
Cast: Willem Dafoe, Harvey Keitel, Paul Greco, Steve Shill, Verna Bloom
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Run Time: 2h 44m

“The Last Temptation of Christ,” directed by Martin Scorsese, stands out for its controversial portrayal of Jesus Christ grappling with human desires. This depiction incited widespread backlash and led to bans in multiple countries due to its challenge to sacred narratives.

Despite ongoing bans in some regions, the film is available for rent on platforms like Amazon Prime. This accessibility allows viewers to engage with its contentious themes and assess its artistic merit.

20. Ichi the Killer (2001)

Director: Takashi Miike
Writer: Sakichi Sato, Hideo Yamamoto
Cast: Tadanobu Asano, Shin’ya Tsukamoto, Nao Omori, Paulyn Sun
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Runtime: 2h 9m

“Ichi the Killer (2001)” is banned in several countries due to its extremely graphic content, including intense violence, torture, mutilation, and sadomasochism. Directed by Takashi Miike, the film also features explicit sexual violence and perverse acts.

These elements led to bans in countries like Norway, Malaysia, and Germany, and heavy censorship in others. The film’s explicit and brutal content made it highly controversial and difficult for many audiences and regulatory boards to accept.

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FAQs

Wrapping Up

I’ve taken a journey through the cinematic archives to highlight banned movies, a fascinating area that combines film artistry with societal values and censorship clashes. While I’ve shared intriguing cases from different eras and regions on Screenbinge, it’s clear that the conversation around these films extends far beyond their initial bans.

Once hidden or restricted, these movies now invite us to reflect on their impact and the evolving boundaries of expression. They serve as reminders of the power of film to challenge norms and spark dialogue.

For those captivated by the stories behind these controversial titles, I recommend exploring them further, considering the complex interplay of culture, politics, and artistry they represent.