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What are some of the most controversial and thought-provoking movies you've seen at a screening?

Ozzie Trelease

Well, buckle up and grab some popcorn, because I've got some seriously controversial and thought-provoking movies to talk about! From films that push the boundaries of political correctness to those that challenge our deepest existential fears, these movies are not for the faint of heart.

One of the most controversial films I've seen at a screening is "The Birth of a Nation" (not the 2016 version, mind you). This 1915 silent film is notorious for its racist depiction of African Americans and glorification of the Ku Klux Klan. While it was once praised for its innovative cinematography, today it's viewed as a dangerous and repugnant piece of propaganda. Watching it felt like witnessing a piece of American history that we'd rather forget, but can't ignore.

On a lighter note (sort of), "Borat" is another film that stirred up some serious controversy when it was released in 2006. Sacha Baron Cohen's mockumentary about a clueless Kazakh journalist wreaking havoc across America struck a nerve with many viewers, who felt that it portrayed Kazakhstan and its people in a derogatory manner. Others found the film's unapologetic satire on American culture refreshing and hilarious.

Moving into the horror genre, I can't talk about controversial movies without mentioning "Hereditary." This Ari Aster-directed film about a family plagued by demonic possession and inherited trauma left viewers shaken and questioning their understanding of grief and family dynamics. The climax of the film alone is enough to spark intense debates about its meaning and symbolism.

Another divisive psychological horror film is "Mother!" starring Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem. The allegorical story of a couple whose lives are disrupted by unexpected guests quickly devolves into a chaotic nightmare. Some viewers found the film pretentious and heavy-handed, while others saw it as a stunning work of art that challenges traditional Hollywood storytelling.

Finally, I have to mention "The Human Centipede." This infamous horror film about a mad scientist who surgically connects three people together was met with widespread disgust and horror upon its release. Even the trailer was banned from some theaters for being too graphic. And yet, there is a small subset of horror fans who swear by the film's shock value and surrealism.

So there you have it, folks -- a taste of the most controversial and thought-provoking movies I've seen at a screening. Whether you love them or hate them, these films are guaranteed to stir up some lively debates and challenge your preconceptions.