David Cronenberg, a pioneer of body horror, is known for provocative films like The Fly and A History of Violence. However, one of his most controversial films, Crash (1996), was so shocking that it faced bans worldwide. The film, based on J.G. Ballard’s novel, follows a man who develops a sexual fixation on car accidents, joining an underground subculture of like-minded individuals.

Premiering at Cannes, Crash caused an uproar. Jury president Francis Ford Coppola strongly disliked it, leading to the creation of a special award for “originality, daring, and audacity” to acknowledge its impact. Critic Alexander Walker called it “beyond the bounds of depravity.” In the U.K., newspapers led campaigns against it, and Westminster Council banned it in parts of London. Norway also prohibited its screening. In the U.S., AMC Cinemas stationed security guards to prevent minors from sneaking in.

One particularly graphic scene involved the protagonist engaging in an intimate act with a scar on a disabled woman’s leg. The BBFC determined the film was “not intended to be taken literally” and consulted psychologists, who found it unlikely to inspire harmful behavior. A group of disabled individuals noted its depiction of disabled sexuality as positive, though they didn’t enjoy the film.

Despite its initial backlash, Crash has since gained a cult following and is now regarded as one of Cronenberg’s most significant works.