Controversial Horror Movie Banned in Over 40 Countries Now Streaming on Shudder

One of the most infamous and divisive cult horror films of all time is rumored to be prohibited in 46 countries – but now, it is available for streaming on Shudder no matter where you are.

A strong stomach is necessary for enjoying some of the best horror movies. Martyrs features some of the most gruesome and skin-peeling gore imaginable, The Fly’s repulsive body horror is sure to make anyone queasy, and Saw’s infamous traps created by Jigsaw are known for their extreme brutality.

However, there is a slight distinction with Faces of Death. The 1978 movie, presented in a documentary style, consists of 105 minutes of footage showcasing people and animals dying in different clips… and that is essentially the entirety of the film.

If this appeals to your taste for gore and horror, you can currently view it on Shudder. For a preview of what to anticipate, take a look at the trailer.

Pathologist Francis B. Gröss in Faces of Death played by Michael Carr. — Aquarius Releasing

Faces of Death is narrated by Francis B. Gröss, a coroner (played by Michael Carr)

It should be noted that approximately 40% of the film is fabricated. However, the remaining portion contains authentic footage, including depictions of suicides and the tragic crash of PSA Flight 182, which remains one of the most devastating air travel accidents in US history.

Despite being released on DVD in the UK in 2003, the original version of the film was banned due to its depiction of “fighting dogs and a monkey being cruelly beaten to death.”While it has been allowed for distribution in some countries, it remains prohibited in others and has undergone significant censorship in certain regions.

In 1985, two high school students in California filed a lawsuit against their school, alleging that their teacher’s screening of the film caused them to have an unnatural fear of death and experience emotional distress. As a result, they were awarded a settlement of $100,000.

Despite this, it is astonishing that it managed to generate a revenue of more than $35 million with a mere budget of $400,000. This success led to the creation of a franchise with four sequels (and two unofficial follow-ups).

For those who are feeling particularly daring, there is also Traces of Death, a separate series that shares a similar concept… except it primarily features actual deaths and accidents. As one would anticipate, it may be more challenging to come across (and darker), so perhaps it would be best to stick with Faces of Death.