They say all press is good press, and that certainly rings true for these films that have caused a stir on the global festival circuit before finding a a home at SWIFF’22. Check them out:
TITANE
Julia Ducournau’s Palme D’Or winning film has been called “a nightmarish yet mischievously comic barrage of sex, violence, lurid lighting and pounding music” and if that doesn’t make you want to buy a ticket immediately, we don’t know what will. Still, director Ducournau has reportedly been surprised the the film hasn’t gained more notoriety, despite people allegedly fainting during screenings.
BENEDETTA
There are going to be a few Verhoevens on the list (obviously) and his latest is no exception. What has become known as the blasphemous lesbian nun movie has earned a few not so flattering awards – including the Hall of Shame award for being “A film about an early church feminist played as softcore porn” – Count us in.
THE SADNESS
Rob Jabbaz’s extreme gore zombie romp was born to be controversial. Once the proverbial starts hitting the fan and the first attacks begin, you know it’s only going to escalate. Extreme horror fans of SWIFF – this one’s for you. Prepare to have your gag reflex tested.
PLEASURE
Despite gracing the covers of the April edition of Harbour magazine, a film about an adult film actress doing whatever it takes to reach the top of the LA porn scene is bound to cause controversy, just from the premise. Swedish director Ninja Thyberg’s debut release caused a stir during it’s US run, and includes real adult film actors in principle roles.
SPETTERS
Another Paul Verhoeven (we warned you) that caused a stir in The Netherlands is Spetters which is in fact the last Dutch film he made before buying a one-way ticket to Hollywood.
It has been described as Paul Verhoeven’s sexually explicit answer to Grease and Paul himself has described it’s conception as an answer to what he saw happening in Holland at the time. Its a fascinating look into Dutch culture in the 1980’s.
BAD LUCK BANGING OR LOONY PORN
This reflection of Romanian attitude on sex is a tongue-in-cheek affair, but caused a stir in Romania. Radu Jude’s bitingly brilliant COVID-age comedy sees a Bucharest school teacher entrenched in a viral video scandal.
BLOODY ORANGES
Trust us, this one’s controversial. We can’t say much more without spoiling, but if you like French satire, and if you like controversial films, this one’s for you.
BASIC INSTINCT
Another Verhoeven! Basic Instinct garnered a lot of press at the time of it’s release for it’s graphic sex scenes, and of course “the” scene with Sharon Stone. But under it all is a damn good erotic thriller, and SWIFF are proud to screen the stunning 4K restoration of this classic.