There are several examples to show that some films that originally hit the cinemas classed NC-17 have been re-edited and re-rated for the viewers today.
While some of them may not be rated NC-17 anymore, others continue to hold on to their ratings for reasons far too obvious.
First and foremost, one should be aware of the fact that some motion pictures that are certified NC-17 are also quite prominent within the cinematic universe.
Needless to say, NC-17 movies have continued to grab the attention of film buffs across the globe for reasons one too many.
It was in 1990 when the MPAA (The Motion Picture Association of America) decided to replace the X rating with NC-17.
The reason behind this call was that X had started to rapidly become synonymous with the world of pornography. Therefore, the NC-17 rating soon made its way to the mainstream.
The rating is assigned by the Motion Picture Association of America and signifies that people who are 17 years or below will not be allowed to enter the cinemas to catch an NC-17 movie.
Basically, the rating allows only adults to be admitted to the theatre.
That being said, it must be understood that some truly watchable movies have also received an NC-17 rating over the years. However, a few of them have been resubmitted to get a lesser rating; perhaps to get access to people of different age groups.
So, as you'd have guessed by now, we have fetched you a story on some of the finest flicks to have ever received the NC-17 or X rating.
While most of these projects hit the screens rated NC-17, some of them also went on to appeal to the board to get their ratings altered right before their theatrical outing.
Drama
Director:
Alfonso Cuarón
Release Date:
Fri Jun 8 2001
Star Cast:
Maribel Verdú, Gael García Bernal, Daniel Giménez Cacho
Budget:
$2,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$33,616,692
Alfonso Cuarón’s exhilarating road movie unfolds during a single summer, set against the backdrop of Mexico’s political unrest. The director skillfully weaves personal journeys within a broader context, making every scene vibrant and meaningful.
The film follows two teenage boys and an alluring older woman as they set out on a cross-country road trip. Along the way, they discover profound truths about life, friendship, sexuality, and ultimately, gain a deeper understanding of themselves and each other.
Their wild adventure perfectly captures the uninhibited, liberating spirit of summertime—a time when life seems open to infinite possibility and self-discovery feels both urgent and effortless.
Through this NC-17 masterpiece, Cuarón appears to encourage viewers to fearlessly pursue authentic love, desire, and emotional honesty, free from the constraints of inhibition or social norms.
Recommended:
DramaRomance
Director:
Abdellatif Kechiche
Release Date:
Wed Oct 9 2013
Star Cast:
Léa Seydoux, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Salim Kechiouche
Budget:
€4,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$19,465,835
"Blue Is the Warmest Colour" is celebrated as one of the most influential lesbian films of the 21st century. Its NC-17 rating stems from honest and unflinching portrayals of intimacy and sexuality that set it apart from mainstream cinema.
Directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, the film follows the emotional and personal journey of Adèle, a young woman grappling with questions about her sexuality and identity.
After ending a relationship with her boyfriend, Adèle finds herself drawn to Emma, a captivating blue-haired art student. Their chance encounter soon develops into a passionate and tumultuous romance.
The film's narrative traces Adèle's growth from her high school years into adulthood, capturing her experiences as she eventually becomes a school teacher.
Adapted from Jul Maroh's acclaimed graphic novel, "Blue Is the Warmest Colour" premiered to widespread critical acclaim and recognition.
The movie earned nominations for the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film and the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language.
Notably, it secured both the Palme d'Or from the official Cannes jury and the FIPRESCI Prize, making it the first film to win the prestigious Palme d'Or for both its director and lead actresses.
Recommended:
BiographyCrimeDrama
Director:
Kimberly Peirce
Release Date:
Fri Mar 31 2000
Star Cast:
Hilary Swank, Chloë Sevigny, Peter Sarsgaard
Budget:
$2,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$11,540,607
Directed by Kimberly Peirce, this biographical drama brings to the screen a powerful story featuring an ensemble cast including Hilary Swank, Chloë Sevigny, Peter Sarsgaard, Brendan Sexton III, Alicia Goranson, Jeannetta Arnette, and Matt McGrath.
The film follows the life of Teena Brandon, a young transgender man seeking acceptance after adopting a male identity. As Teena begins a romantic relationship with single mother Lana, he faces increasing challenges due to his past.
Forced to conceal his history and gender transition, Teena's struggle for love and identity lies at the heart of "Boys Don't Cry," a film that confronts sensitive and controversial topics with raw honesty.
Originally given an NC-17 rating for its intense subject matter, the film was subsequently reclassified to an R rating, reflecting its complex and mature themes.
Recommended:
CrimeSci-Fi
Director:
Stanley Kubrick
Release Date:
Wed Feb 2 1972
Star Cast:
Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates
Budget:
$2,200,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$26,960,374
Set in a dystopian future, this iconic X-rated film follows a sadistic gang leader who, after being imprisoned, volunteers for a controversial behavior-modification experiment. However, the outcome defies expectations, spiraling into unforeseen consequences.
Though A Clockwork Orange received an X rating due to its sexually violent content, it was also withdrawn from British cinemas amid fears it might provoke copycat crimes. The film’s controversial reputation only heightened its cinematic legacy.
Despite the controversy, this film remains both highly acclaimed and deeply unsettling. It challenges viewers, blurring the lines between sanity and madness, and leaving a lasting impression with its disturbing scenes.
Importantly, A Clockwork Orange serves as a critical exploration of violence and sexuality in modern society. Viewing it purely as gratuitous violence misses the deeper messages that define its enduring impact.
Recommended:
Drama
Director:
John Schlesinger
Release Date:
Sun May 25 1969
Star Cast:
Dustin Hoffman, Jon Voight, Sylvia Miles
Budget:
$3,600,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$44,801,177
"Midnight Cowboy" debuted well before the NC-17 rating existed, but it initially received an X-rating for its bold exploration of LGBTQ+ themes and mature subject matter. The film pushed boundaries with its honest depiction of life's grittier realities.
Remarkably, it remains the only X-rated movie ever to win the Academy Award for Best Picture—a distinction that highlights its cultural impact and critical acclaim.
The story centers on a naive hustler who leaves Texas for New York City in search of fortune, only to form an unexpected friendship that shapes his journey. This heartfelt narrative brings a blend of vulnerability and resilience to the screen.
Directed by John Schlesinger, the movie's rating was later changed to R, a shift many critics believe better suits modern sensibilities. Today, it is celebrated for capturing the raw spirit of the underground New York film movement and introducing it to wider audiences.
Brave and exceptionally told, "Midnight Cowboy" can also be seen as a moving buddy film—one that doesn't shy away from exploring darkness amid camaraderie.
ComedyDrama
Director:
Todd Solondz
Release Date:
Fri Oct 16 1998
Star Cast:
Jane Adams, Jon Lovitz, Philip Seymour Hoffman
Budget:
$2,200,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,982,011
"Happiness" (1998) is a dark comedy-drama widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed films on our list. Written and directed by Todd Solondz, it stands out for its bold storytelling and unique perspective.
The film explores the intertwined lives of three sisters, their families, and those close to them, delving into the universal yearning for genuine human connection.
Despite its restrictive NC-17 rating, "Happiness" was honored with the FIPRESCI Prize at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival for its fearless exploration of controversial modern themes and striking visual style.
The cast was also recognized with the National Board of Review award for Best Ensemble Performance, reflecting the film's impressive performances.
Legendary film critic Roger Ebert awarded "Happiness" four out of four stars and listed it as his fifth-best film of 1998, cementing its status as a significant contemporary work.
BiographyCrimeDrama
Director:
John McNaughton
Release Date:
Fri Sep 7 1990
Star Cast:
Michael Rooker, Tracy Arnold, Tom Towles
Budget:
$111,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$609,939
Directed by John McNaughton, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer made its debut at the Chicago International Film Festival in 1986 and later appeared at several other festivals during the late 1980s.
The film centers on Henry, who moves to Chicago and begins living with his ex-convict acquaintance, Otis. Together, they embark on a dark and disturbing path as Henry introduces Otis to the world of serial killing.
Although the movie was met with widespread critical acclaim, it quickly sparked significant controversy during its festival run in the '80s.
This slasher film received an X rating from the MPAA, a decision that only fueled its notoriety and heightened the surrounding debates.
Drama
Director:
Gregg Araki
Release Date:
Fri Jun 24 2005
Star Cast:
Brady Corbet, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elisabeth Shue
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,532,932
Directed by Gregg Araki, Mysterious Skin features a stellar ensemble cast including Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Brady Corbet, Michelle Trachtenberg, Jeff Licon, Bill Sage, Mary Lynn Rajskub, and Elisabeth Shue in pivotal roles.
The film made its debut at the 61st Venice International Film Festival in 2004 and is an adaptation of Scott Heim's acclaimed novel of the same name.
The gripping narrative centers on two young men: one becomes obsessed with UFOs, while the other, a gay hustler, struggles with trauma from his troubled past.
Upon its release in the United States, the film received an NC-17 rating from the MPAA, ultimately prompting its distribution without an official rating.
Documentary
Director:
Kirby Dick
Release Date:
Fri Sep 1 2006
Star Cast:
Kirby Dick, Kimberly Peirce, Darren Aronofsky
Box Office (Worldwide):
$347,240
As we've explored the controversial application of the NC-17 rating, it's fitting to highlight a documentary that examines the inner workings of the MPAA's rating system and its often arbitrary decisions.
"This Film Is Not Yet Rated" investigates how the MPAA tends to harshly penalize scenes involving homosexual intimacy, and also scrutinizes its stricter stance on depictions of female climax and pubic hair. The documentary exposes these inconsistencies through thorough research and firsthand accounts.
Featuring interviews with filmmakers who have challenged the rating board, the film sheds light on the secretive process behind movie ratings. Ironically, because it dared to critique the system so openly, the MPAA responded by awarding this very documentary an NC-17 rating as well.
Horror
Director:
Sam Raimi
Release Date:
Fri Apr 15 1983
Star Cast:
Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweiss, Richard DeManincor
Budget:
$350,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,895,379
Directed and written by Sam Raimi, this supernatural horror classic has solidified its reputation as one of the most influential cult films in the genre.
The plot centers on five friends who retreat to a secluded cabin in the woods, seeking a fun getaway. However, what begins as a lighthearted trip quickly descends into terror and chaos.
Their nightmare unfolds as they inadvertently unleash malevolent demons, leading to a harrowing struggle for survival as the dark forces possess each of them, leaving only one fighting for their life.
This NC-17 masterpiece premiered to widespread acclaim and achieved remarkable box office success, ranking among the highest-grossing independent films ever made.
Without a doubt, The Evil Dead left audiences terrified and continues to be a benchmark in horror cinema.
AnimationComedyFantasy
Director:
Trey Parker
Release Date:
Wed Jun 30 1999
Star Cast:
Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Mary Kay Bergman
Budget:
$21,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$83,137,603
"South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut" earned an NC-17 rating multiple times before content edits ultimately secured it an R rating. Its history with the ratings board makes it a notable inclusion on this list of NC-17 films, despite its final rating.
This adult animated musical comedy is inspired by the irreverent sitcom "South Park." The film features voices from Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Mary Kay Bergman, Isaac Hayes, George Clooney, Eric Idle, and Mike Judge, all taking on significant roles throughout the story.
The plot follows four boys who are labeled "morally corrupt" after being caught watching an R-rated film. Facing backlash from their parents, the boys must try to prevent a crisis that threatens to escalate into all-out war.
AnimationCrimeDrama
Director:
Satoshi Kon
Release Date:
Sat Feb 28 1998
Star Cast:
Junko Iwao, Rica Matsumoto, Shinpachi Tsuji
Budget:
¥3,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$563,130
Directed by Satoshi Kon, Perfect Blue stands out as one of his most renowned works—a psychological thriller that earned its NC-17 rating due to graphic violence, explicit sexual content, and numerous disturbing sequences interwoven throughout its narrative.
Though animated, this film is unmistakably intended for mature audiences, featuring unsettling depictions such as a harrowing rape scene and multiple moments of intense bloodshed and brutality.
The story centers on a pop singer who decides to leave her band to pursue an acting career, forcing her to abandon her squeaky-clean image and embrace more provocative roles to achieve her ambitions.
Upon its release, Perfect Blue garnered attention for its raw and unflinching portrayal of sexual violence, breaking boundaries in animation at the time. The movie's layered storytelling invites viewers to reflect and analyze its themes long after the end credits roll.
This animated masterpiece resonates with a level of realism and emotional intensity rarely matched by live-action films.
DramaRomance
Director:
Bernardo Bertolucci
Release Date:
Wed Feb 7 1973
Star Cast:
Marlon Brando, Maria Schneider, Maria Michi
Budget:
$1,250,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$36,182,181
Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, "Last Tango in Paris" stars the legendary Marlon Brando alongside Maria Schneider, Maria Michi, Giovanna Galletti, Jean-Pierre Léaud, and Massimo Girotti in pivotal roles.
This NC-17 film made its debut at the New York Film Festival in late 1972 and went on to become the seventh highest-grossing film of 1973.
The story centers on Paul, a man consumed by grief after his wife's passing. He unexpectedly meets Jeanne, a young Parisian woman, and the two begin a secret and passionate affair.
Their relationship soon spirals out of control when Paul reveals intimate details about his life, putting himself in jeopardy. "Last Tango in Paris" sparked international controversy due to its explicit depictions of sexual violence.
Originally rated X upon its U.S. release, the film was later reclassified as NC-17.
DramaRomance
Director:
Kyle Patrick Alvarez
Release Date:
Thu Aug 26 2010
Star Cast:
Brian Geraghty, Kel O'Neill, Marguerite Moreau
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,558
"Easier with Practice," written and directed by Kyle Patrick Alvarez, features standout performances from Brian Geraghty, Kel O'Neill, Marguerite Moreau, Jeanette Brox, Jenna Gavigan, and Katie Aselton in pivotal roles.
What makes this film especially intriguing is that its narrative is inspired by a 2006 GQ article authored by Davy Rothbart.
The screenplay follows the story of an aspiring writer who develops a surprisingly intense obsession with a mysterious phone-sex partner.
The twist lies in the fact that he has never actually met the person with whom he shares these intimate conversations.
This distinctive film earned nominations for two Independent Spirit Awards: Best First Feature and the Someone to Watch Award.
It debuted at the CineVegas Film Festival, where it was honored with the Grand Jury Prize.
Additionally, this originally NC-17-rated movie received the Best New International Feature award at its international premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
CrimeDrama
Director:
Peter Greenaway
Release Date:
Fri Apr 6 1990
Star Cast:
Richard Bohringer, Michael Gambon, Helen Mirren
Box Office (Worldwide):
$8,523,572
Directed by Peter Greenaway, The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover features standout performances from Richard Bohringer, Michael Gambon, Helen Mirren, and Alan Howard.
This groundbreaking film was among the earliest to be awarded the NC-17 rating. Before its theatrical release, the MPAA offered the filmmakers a choice: self-apply an X rating or release the film as unrated.
Greenaway presents a truly unique cinematic experience, blending Shakespearean tragedy with postmodern horror in one of the most daring motion pictures ever created.
The narrative unfolds around a cook, a thief, and his wife, immersing viewers in a powerful mix of sex, food, murder, and revenge. As events escalate, the film reveals the motives and consequences driving its characters.
The film's NC-17 rating is well-earned due to its intense and graphic sex scenes, which underline its provocative and uncompromising vision.
Drama
Director:
Steve McQueen
Release Date:
Fri Jan 13 2012
Star Cast:
Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan, James Badge Dale
Budget:
$6,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$19,123,767
Directed by Steve McQueen, Shame features Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan delivering remarkable performances in lead roles.
Cinephiles know McQueen as one of the most sophisticated filmmakers of his era, seamlessly blending technical mastery with exceptional storytelling and direction. His talents are on full display in the daring 2011 film, Shame.
This challenging and thought-provoking NC-17 drama centers on Fassbender's character, who struggles with sex addiction and finds it difficult to form genuine connections. The arrival of his estranged sister only further complicates his isolated existence.
Shame boldly explores themes of loneliness and vulnerability, venturing into territory that few conventional romantic dramas would dare to approach.
The film's unflinching depiction of intimacy and personal turmoil makes its NC-17 rating not just fitting, but essential to its impact.
CrimeDramaThriller
Director:
Abel Ferrara
Release Date:
Thu Dec 17 1992
Star Cast:
Harvey Keitel, Brian McElroy, Frank Acciarito
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,038,916
Initially rated NC-17, Bad Lieutenant was among the earliest films to receive this rating, largely due to its unflinching depictions of drug use and violence throughout its narrative.
This neo-noir crime drama delves deeply into the shadowy realm of police corruption, offering a gritty, immersive exploration of ethical decay within law enforcement.
Directed by Abel Ferrara, the film stars indie cinema icon Harvey Keitel as the troubled "bad lieutenant." The cast is further strengthened by Victor Argo and Paul Calderón, who deliver compelling supporting performances. The story boldly examines themes of salvation and the enduring hold of addiction and vice.
Keitel delivers a mesmerizing portrayal as a police officer assigned to investigate a shocking assault on a nun, all while battling his own intense existential crisis. His raw performance anchors the film's emotional intensity.
What sets this feature apart is how its technical execution—cinematography, editing, and score—amplifies the film’s relentlessly bleak and unsettling atmosphere, reinforcing its impact at every turn.
This daring and influential motion picture has rightfully achieved cult classic status and stands as one of the most audacious cinematic projects of the 1990s.
DramaRomance
Director:
Louis Malle
Release Date:
Fri Jan 22 1993
Star Cast:
Jeremy Irons, Juliette Binoche, Miranda Richardson
Box Office (Worldwide):
$7,532,911
With its provocative subject matter, Damage faced significant scrutiny from the MPAA, who seemed determined to leave their mark on the project—a challenge the filmmakers approached with both caution and irony.
Initially receiving an NC-17 rating, director Louis Malle had to cut several scenes before the film ultimately achieved an R rating. These edits allowed the film's intensity and emotional depth to remain intact while broadening its audience.
Featuring an acclaimed cast including Jeremy Irons, Juliette Binoche, Miranda Richardson, Rupert Graves, Ian Bannen, and Leslie Caron, the story delves into the tangled passions of a member of Parliament who becomes dangerously infatuated with his son's fiancée.
This illicit romance creates an ever-present threat of exposure, adding tension and complexity to an already precarious situation.
DocumentaryComedy
Director:
Penn Jillette, Paul Provenza
Release Date:
Fri Sep 2 2005
Star Cast:
George Carlin, Don Rickles, Chris Rock
Box Office (Worldwide):
$6,809,788
"The Aristocrats" is an outrageous and side-splitting documentary featuring a star-studded lineup of comedians, each delivering their own version of a famously filthy joke that has circulated privately among comics since the days of Vaudeville.
Throughout the film, renowned comedians from different generations are interviewed, and each brings a unique style and personal flair to telling what is often hailed as "the world’s dirtiest joke."
Without spoiling the punchline, rest assured that the humor reaches the farthest extremes of vulgarity and taboo. It's no surprise that "The Aristocrats" had to be released Unrated to sidestep an NC-17 rating due to its unapologetic and boundary-pushing content.
ComedyCrimeDrama
Director:
Rémy Belvaux, André Bonzel, Benoît Poelvoorde
Release Date:
Fri Jan 15 1993
Star Cast:
Benoît Poelvoorde, Jacqueline Poelvoorde-Pappaert, Nelly Pappaert
Budget:
BEF 1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$205,569
Darkly whimsical, shockingly violent, and unapologetically bold, Man Bites Dog is a film that pushes the boundaries of comfort for most viewers. Unsurprisingly, its intense content led to the film being issued an NC-17 rating.
The narrative follows a documentary crew as they shadow a remorseless thief and killer, capturing his daily life on camera. As their involvement deepens, the lines blur dangerously, and the crew finds themselves complicit in his crimes.
Co-written and co-directed by Benoît Poelvoorde, Rémy Belvaux, and André Bonzel, this film has been praised for its clever storytelling and provocative themes, making a significant impact despite its controversial rating.
Drama
Director:
Lars von Trier
Release Date:
Thu Mar 6 2014
Star Cast:
Charlotte Gainsbourg, Stellan Skarsgård, Stacy Martin
Budget:
$4,700,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$13,551,156
This erotic art feature has been written and directed for the screen by Lars von Trier.
It stars Charlotte Gainsbourg, Stellan Skarsgård, Stacy Martin, Shia LaBeouf, Christian Slater, Jamie Bell, Uma Thurman, Jean-Marc Barr, Willem Dafoe, and Connie Nielsen in critical roles.
The story follows a self-diagnosed woman who is addicted to intimacy. She is seen narrating her erotic adventures to the man who has just protected her from a beating.
The uncut Volume I made its world premiere at the 64th Berlin International Film Festival.
While the motion picture was given an NC-17 rating by the MPAA, the makers of the film decided to follow their will and, thus, released it unrated.
DramaThriller
Director:
William Friedkin
Release Date:
Fri Jun 29 2012
Star Cast:
Matthew McConaughey, Emile Hirsch, Juno Temple
Budget:
$11,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,633,668
Not many of our readers would be aware of the fact that director William Friedkin's Killer Joe had also received the NC-17 rating.
The motion picture stars actors like Matthew McConaughey, Emile Hirsch, Juno Temple, Gina Gershon, and Thomas Haden Church in pivotal roles.
It traces the journey of a Texan drug dealer named Chris, who has gotten himself into enormous debt and is in serious need of cash.
Having no place to run, he is left with no option but to slay his own mother to claim the insurance amount.
This psychosexual crime drama features an actor as talented as Matthew McConaughey as a dreadful hitman.
The film received the NC-17 rating due to its excessive use of nudity, projection of relentless psychological abuse, and violence.
ComedyDramaMusic
Director:
Russ Meyer
Release Date:
Wed Jun 17 1970
Star Cast:
Dolly Read, Cynthia Myers, Marcia McBroom
Budget:
$900,000 (estimated)
Director Russ Meyer's Beyond the Valley of the Dolls stars actors Dolly Read, Cynthia Myers, Marcia McBroom, Phyllis Davis, Erica Gavin, John Lazar, Michael Blodgett, and David Gurian in crucial roles.
The story of this NC-17 feature follows a star-struck all-girl band that gets itself entangled with the wrong side of Hollywood; one that is high on popping pills and craving for unnecessary intimacy.
While the film did not receive unanimously positive reviews upon its theatrical release, it did end up developing a cult following in the decades to come.
ComedyDramaRomance
Director:
John Cameron Mitchell
Release Date:
Fri Oct 20 2006
Star Cast:
Sook-Yin Lee, Peter Stickles, PJ DeBoy
Budget:
$2,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$5,557,564
Reportedly inspired by New York's real underground sex parties, Shortbus traces the journey of a group of New Yorkers who are caught up in their romantic-sexual milieu and converge at an underground salon.
Since the salon is infamous for its blend of art, music, politics and carnality, it's only fitting that the film gets famous for its blend of comedy, drama, and eroticism.
Shortbus grabbed eyeballs because it was shot almost entirely with real intercourse. In fact, it was reported that its main lead Sook-Yin Lee was almost fired from her job at the CBC because of her decision to work on the project.
Thankfully for her, prominent celebs like Yoko Ono, Julianne Moore, and Francis Ford Coppola came to her defense.
The movie was screened as Unrated in various cities around America for viewers who were 18+.
BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Ken Russell
Release Date:
Fri Jul 16 1971
Star Cast:
Vanessa Redgrave, Oliver Reed, Dudley Sutton
This historical drama film chronicles the journey of a Roman Catholic priest Father Urbain Grandier who is accused of witchcraft. The serious accusations have originated from Sister Jeanne des Anges, who happens to be a sexually repressed nun.
Co-written and helmed by Ken Russell, The Devils was heavily edited before it finally hit the screens in 1971. It went on to receive the NC-17 rating because it reportedly comprised graphic scenes that mixed sex and violence with Christian rituals and religious objects.
Needless to mention, quite a few of those sequences had to be edited out from the film to ensure that it made it to the cinemas. Having said that, some people who have seen this motion picture consider it to be a deliberately offensive project which is aimed at raising eyebrows.
Indeed, it is populated with stunning and provocative imagery that will certainly get you talking. The director's efforts at showcasing events that may have truly happened can leave you appalled.
ComedyCrimeDrama
Director:
Pedro Almodóvar
Release Date:
Mon Jan 22 1990
Star Cast:
Victoria Abril, Antonio Banderas, Loles León
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,088,140
The evocative title of the motion picture suggests that it's got to be an adult film by all means.
In it, we catch an unbalanced but alluring former mental patient taking a porn star prisoner in the hopes of convincing her to tie the knot with him.
Co-written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar, Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! was generally well-received by the Spanish critics.
The aggressive campaigning by its makers ensured that its X rating eventually converted to an NC-17.
CrimeDrama
Director:
David Mackenzie
Release Date:
Fri Sep 26 2003
Star Cast:
Ewan McGregor, Tilda Swinton, Peter Mullan
Budget:
$6,400,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,561,820
Written and directed for the screen by David Mackenzie, Young Adam features a competent cast full of performers such as Ewan McGregor, Tilda Swinton, Peter Mullan, and Emily Mortimer, among others.
Based on Alexander Trocchi's novel of the same name, the NC-17 flick traces the journey of a young nomad named Joe who works on a barge touring between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The barge has been acquired by Les and his wife Ella. However, one day, things change when the crew stumbles upon the body of a young woman while loading the hold with coal.
This, in turn, stimulates a sequence of events in the screenplay. This feature film was screened at a lot many noteworthy film festivals across the world.
Not only was it screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival but it was also shown at the Edinburgh Film Festival, the Toronto International Film Festival, the Moscow Film Festival, the Telluride Film Festival, and the Athens Film Festival, respectively.
ComedyCrime
Director:
John Waters
Release Date:
Wed Mar 31 1976
Star Cast:
Divine, David Lochary, Mary Vivian Pearce
Budget:
$10,000 (estimated)
Directed by John Waters and starring Divine, David Lochary, Mink Stole, Mary Vivian Pearce, Danny Mills, and Edith Massey in crucial roles, Pink Flamingos was initially released in the theatres with an X rating.
However, it was later re-rated NC-17. The plot of this venture follows a fat and strange woman and her misfit family, who try to rival a Baltimore couple to be labeled the filthiest people alive in the world.
Since filmmaker John Waters has long been known as "the king of filth", this 1972 project aimed to justify the epithet, by hook or by crook.
Arguably his most disgusting and disturbing work yet, Pink Flamingos is one of the most provocative cult motion pictures to have ever been produced.
And, oh yes, it is definitely not everyone's cup of tea.
Comedy
Director:
Paul Weitz, Chris Weitz
Release Date:
Fri Jul 9 1999
Star Cast:
Jason Biggs, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas
Budget:
$11,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$235,483,004
The first film in the American Pie series was slapped with the NC-17 rating by the MPAA just before its theatrical outing. However, a couple of scenes were duly edited in order to avoid the rating.
The film features an ensemble cast that stars actors such as Jason Biggs, Chris Klein, Alyson Hannigan, Natasha Lyonne, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Tara Reid, Mena Suvari, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Seann William Scott, and Eugene Levy in significant roles.
It tracks the journey of a group of friends who try their best to lose their virginity before the much-awaited prom night.
This coming-of-age sex comedy was a massive hit at the box office.
ComedyRomance
Director:
Kevin Smith
Release Date:
Fri Oct 31 2008
Star Cast:
Seth Rogen, Elizabeth Banks, Craig Robinson
Budget:
$24,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$42,784,344
Zack and Miri Make a Porno has been directed by known filmmaker Kevin Smith and stars screen performers such as Seth Rogen, Elizabeth Banks, Craig Robinson, Jason Mewes, Traci Lords, Jeff Anderson, Katie Morgan, and Ricky Mabe in crucial roles.
The story of this motion picture is quite simple. It tracks the journey of two friends, Zack and Miri, who, upon suffering heavy financial losses, decide to earn money by filming an adult movie.
It's been reported that the rating board wasn't too pleased with a couple of intimate sequences in the story, which is why the film was slapped with an NC-17 rating twice.
However, Smith took the onus on himself and appealed the rating. He argued that the intimate scenes were in the movie to elicit laughter among the viewers.
This perhaps changed the mind of the board and the film was finally released with an R rating.
ActionCrimeThriller
Director:
John Woo
Release Date:
Fri Aug 20 1993
Star Cast:
Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lance Henriksen, Yancy Butler
Budget:
$18,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$74,189,677
Director John Woo's Hard Target is an action extravaganza that stars Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lance Henriksen, Yancy Butler, and Wilford Brimley in crucial roles.
It is based on the 1932 film adaptation of Richard Connell's 1924 short story "The Most Dangerous Game", and is considered to be a cult flick among fans of the action genre.
The film tracks the journey of a merchant seaman named Chance, who goes out of his way to help Natasha look for her father who's been missing.
However, the journey brings him on the trail of a ruthless killer whose victims are mostly homeless men.
This John Woo-helmed feature was adjudged too intense and brutal for an R rating and, therefore, received an NC-17 rating initially.
However, the filmmaker made a lot many cuts to the movie in order to ensure that it did not end up releasing with an NC-17 rating.
While Hard Target opened to strictly mixed reviews, it was a commercial success at the box office.
BiographyDrama
Director:
Philip Kaufman
Release Date:
Fri Oct 5 1990
Star Cast:
Fred Ward, Uma Thurman, Maria de Medeiros
Box Office (Worldwide):
$23,472,449
Co-written and directed for the screen by Philip Kaufman, this biographical drama film was officially known for being the first motion picture to receive the newly instilled NC-17 rating in 1990.
The movie stars Fred Ward, Uma Thurman, and Maria de Medeiros in prominent roles and is partially based on the posthumously published Anaïs Nin book of the same name.
The screenplay attempts to tell the story of Nin's relationship with Henry Miller and his wife June.
Even though Henry & June was allotted an NC-17 rating courtesy of the intimate scenes, some critics at the time actually criticized it for not being tempting enough.
Be that as it may, the motion picture was well-received upon its release.
Drama
Director:
David Cronenberg
Release Date:
Fri Mar 21 1997
Star Cast:
James Spader, Holly Hunter, Elias Koteas
Budget:
$9,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,671,855
Those who have been ardent movie fans for a long time must be aware of director David Cronenberg's affinity for mind-bending concepts and excessive violence.
It is not surprising then that his 1996 feature, Crash, was given an NC-17 rating.
The bizarre story follows a group of "friends" who get sexually aroused when they come across car crashes and their victims.
Needless to say, the film was paced with highly graphic sex scenes.
In addition, the usage of violence was prevalent throughout its storytelling. Despite all this, the motion picture managed to grab eyeballs and was appreciated by many a critic.
Drama
Director:
Larry Clark
Release Date:
Fri Sep 1 1995
Star Cast:
Leo Fitzpatrick, Justin Pierce, Chloë Sevigny
Budget:
$1,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$7,412,216
Director Larry Clark's indie drama Kids stars Leo Fitzpatrick, Justin Pierce, Chloë Sevigny, and Rosario Dawson in their respective film debuts.
The film originally received an NC-17 rating from the MPAA, but, for some reason, it was released without a rating in the cinemas.
Nevertheless, we are still including this feature on our list courtesy of the fact that it caused enormous public debate over its artistic distinction.
The story tracks a day in the life of a group of teenagers as they travel around New York City drinking, skating, smoking, and getting intimate with virgins.
Drama
Director:
James Toback
Release Date:
Fri Jan 29 1999
Star Cast:
Robert Downey Jr., Heather Graham, Natasha Gregson Wagner
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,057,193
This James Toback directorial venture was reportedly edited fourteen times to get its rating changed from NC-17 to R for a theatrical release.
However, both versions of the film seem to be available today.
Starring actors like Robert Downey Jr., Heather Graham, and Natasha Gregson Wagner in important roles, Two Girls and a Guy tells the wickedly funny tale of two women who realize that they've been sharing the same partner for months.
What follows is a series of events that pretty much strives to elucidate the failure of modern-day relationships.
The motion picture, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 1997, is primarily based on dialogue between the three characters. It was filmed in eleven flat days.
DramaHorrorThriller
Director:
Lars von Trier
Release Date:
Wed May 20 2009
Star Cast:
Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Storm Acheche Sahlstrøm
Budget:
$11,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$7,413,863
Those who are familiar with Danish director Lars von Trier's work would be well aware of the fact that he is quite acquainted with the NC-17 rating.
His 2009 offering, Antichrist, stars talented actors Willem Dafoe and Nymphomaniac star Charlotte Gainsbourg in the lead. They shock with their grim and horrifying portrayal of a couple going through marital woes after the tragic death of their beloved child.
The film's sequences depicting acts of self-mutilation resulted in a handful of cine-goers fainting during its early screening at Cannes.
Surely, when nature decides to take control of things, they can go from bad to worse.
DramaHorrorThriller
Director:
Alejandro Jodorowsky
Release Date:
Wed Jun 27 1990
Star Cast:
Axel Jodorowsky, Blanca Guerra, Guy Stockwell
Budget:
$787,000 (estimated)
Santa Sangre, also known as Holy Blood' in English, is an avant-garde surreal horror feature that has been co-written and helmed by Alejandro Jodorowsky.
The NC-17 motion picture stars Axel Jodorowsky, Adán Jodorowsky, Teo Jodorowsky, Blanca Guerra, Thelma Tixou, and Guy Stockwell in prominent roles.
It traces the journey of its central character named Fenix, who flees from a mental institution as a sequence of flashbacks familiarizes the viewers with his disturbing past.
Soon, Fenix rejoins his mother who is now leading a religious cult after having been left maimed by a vicious attack by his father.
A courageous and imaginative combination of horror and surrealism, this feature film would appeal to those who prefer the aforementioned attributes in what they see.
ComedyCrime
Director:
John Waters
Release Date:
Sun Feb 15 1976
Star Cast:
Divine, David Lochary, Mary Vivian Pearce
Budget:
$25,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$460
Helmed for the screen by John Waters, Female Trouble features actors such as Divine, David Lochary, Mary Vivian Pearce, Mink Stole, Edith Massey, Cookie Mueller, Susan Walsh, and Michael Potter in critical roles.
The NC-17 feature gives an entirely different perspective to glamour and ensures that it comes across as grotesque at all times.
The story follows an obese woman, who, after giving birth to an "unpleasant" child, embarks upon a strange and excessively destructive life of crime.
Whether someone likes the movie or not, Female Trouble offers wicked pleasures that will never cease to satisfy the viewers who may be looking for the same in a film.
Comedy
Director:
Trey Parker
Release Date:
Fri Oct 23 1998
Star Cast:
Trey Parker, Dian Bachar, Robyn Lynne Raab
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$602,302
Orgazmo belongs to a very unique genre of filmmaking. It is a superhero sex comedy feature film that has been written, directed, and edited by Trey Parker.
It stars Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Dian Bachar, Robyn Lynne, and Michael Dean Jacobs in crucial roles.
The plot of this NC-17 venture follows a devout and innocent Mormon missionary named Joe Young who reluctantly agrees to be a part of a pornographic film for an abusive director.
He does so in order to be able to pay for his and his fiancée's dream wedding and home.
Orgazmo has gone on to become a cult film of sorts following its release in 1997.
BiographyDramaRomance
Director:
Jean-Jacques Annaud
Release Date:
Fri Oct 30 1992
Star Cast:
Jane March, Tony Ka Fai Leung, Jeanne Moreau
Box Office (Worldwide):
$5,013,090
Helmed for the screen by Jean-Jacques Annaud and based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Marguerite Duras, The Lover is yet another feature that was originally given an NC-17 rating by the MPAA.
The makers had to really go out of their way to convince the board to change the rating to R.
The film features actors such as Jane March and Tony Leung Ka-Fai in central roles and Jeanne Moreau as the narrator.
The story is about a young French girl who ends up having feelings for a comparatively older Chinese man.
Even though both of them are aware of the fact that the relationship may cause them a whole lot of trouble, they still decide to proceed with it.
DramaHistory
Director:
Andrew Dominik
Release Date:
Wed Sep 28 2022
Star Cast:
Ana de Armas, Lily Fisher, Julianne Nicholson
Budget:
$22,000,000 (estimated)
One of the recent movies to receive an NC-17 rating, Blonde takes a rather sordid look at the rise to fame and the epic demise of screen icon Marilyn Monroe, who was one of the most popular stars in the world during the peak of her career.
This Andrew Dominik directorial venture opened to negative reviews from critics and fans alike due to the "unethical" portrayal of the major film star.
Blonde has been toplined by Ana de Armas, who managed to grab eyeballs through her performance. It received the NC-17 rating due to its sexual content.
DramaRomance
Director:
Gregor Nicholas
Release Date:
Fri May 2 1997
Star Cast:
Aleksandra Vujcic, Julian Arahanga, Rade Serbedzija
Box Office (Worldwide):
$541,377
Director Gregor Nicholas brings together actors like Aleksandra Vujčić, Julian Arahanga, Marton Csokas, and Rade Šerbedžija for this NC-17 project that is set in New Zealand.
Even though Broken English is rated NC-17 by the MPAA, it only comprises one intimate scene. That is perhaps why its makers decided to appeal the ruling.
That said, this film depicts a clash of ideologies. It attempts to blend the ideals of a rigid Croatian refugee against those of his daughter Nina, who does not share his old-world and orthodox perspectives.
The plot demonstrates how complications arise when Nina is entangled in a marriage of convenience with a Chinese national and a passionate affair with the Maori cook who works at the same eatery where she does.
DramaHistoryRomance
Director:
Sean Mathias
Release Date:
Wed Nov 26 1997
Star Cast:
Lothaire Bluteau, Clive Owen, Mick Jagger
Box Office (Worldwide):
$496,059
This Sean Mathias directorial venture is a collaboration between the United Kingdom and Japan and is based on Martin Sherman's 1979 play of the same name.
Sherman also wrote the screenplay for the film. It stars actors such as Lothaire Bluteau, Clive Owen, Brian Webber, Ian McKellen, and Mick Jagger in pivotal roles.
Set in 1930s Germany, this brutal feature revolves around the persecution of homosexuals in Nazi Germany. It traces the journey of a gay Jew who is sent to a Nazi concentration camp.
Bent, which managed to garner an approval rating of 73 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, ended up winning the Best Feature Film in the Torino International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in the year 1998.
CrimeDramaHorror
Director:
Jennifer Lynch
Release Date:
Thu Jul 18 2013
Star Cast:
Vincent D'Onofrio, Eamon Farren, Evan Bird
Box Office (Worldwide):
$77,839
Helmed for the screen by Jennifer Lynch, Chained stars Vincent D'Onofrio, Eamon Farren, Gina Philips, Conor Leslie, Jake Weber, and Julia Ormond in significant roles.
The screenplay shows D'Onofrio's character as a serial killer who's kept Farren's character as his prisoner.
The story proceeds to examine their relationship as the killer tries to turn his hostage into his protégé. Chained was originally rated NC-17 by the MPAA for its explicit depiction of violence.
However, the director had to edit the screenplay in order to get an R rating.
That said, the feature had its premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival and opened to polarizing reviews elsewhere.
Be that as it may, its performances were appreciated by those who were able to come across this venture.
ComedyDrama
Director:
John Byrum
Release Date:
Fri Feb 13 1976
Star Cast:
Richard Dreyfuss, Jessica Harper, Bob Hoskins
Budget:
$350,000 (estimated)
This John Byrum-helmed project features Richard Dreyfuss, Veronica Cartwright, Jessica Harper, Bob Hoskins, and Stephen Davies in prominent roles.
The NC-17 feature attempts to trace the journey of a young, has-been Hollywood filmmaker who refuses to change with time.
Needless to say, he ceases to accept the fact that times are indeed changing with the onset of the 1930s.
This reluctance makes him find a haven in his crumbling mansion where he decides to make silent porn movies.
This was director John Byrum's debut feature. It was originally rated X but its rating was later altered to NC-17.
Unfortunately for its makers, Inserts turned out to be a disappointment at the ticket windows.
Comedy
Director:
Warren P. Sonoda
Release Date:
Fri Sep 12 2014
Star Cast:
Mike Smith, Robb Wells, John Paul Tremblay
Helmed for the screen by Warren P. Sonoda, Swearnet: The Movie has been written, produced by, and stars Mike Smith, John Paul Tremblay, and Robb Wells in significant roles.
The story of the motion picture tracks how Mike, Robb, and Paul are fed up with being censored in their life post the series Trailer Park Boys. Possibly looking for inspiration, the trio decides to get ambitious and launches their own uncensored network on the internet.
We'd like to inform our readers that this film holds the record for using the "F" word the maximum number of times in any motion picture to date.
It apparently used the word 935 times. It is not surprising then that the feature ended up getting an NC-17 rating from the MPAA.
Drama
Director:
Deborah Shames
Star Cast:
Gwen Somers, Dihlon McManne, Belinda Farrell
This Deborah Shames directorial venture features Gwen Somers, Dihlon McManne, Belinda Farrell, and Eric Barnes in crucial roles.
This highly sensual NC-17 title attempts to trace the journey of an erratic but thriving attorney who attends a charity bachelor auction.
There, he tries to prove a point about men by spending top dollar for a date with a pet canine.
The viewers who have managed to stumble upon this feature are of the opinion that the intimate scenes in it are all well-executed and believable.
DramaRomanceThriller
Director:
John Duigan
Release Date:
Fri Apr 16 1993
Star Cast:
Karina Lombard, Nathaniel Parker, Rachel Ward
Budget:
$4,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,614,784
Director John Duigan's Wide Sargasso Sea is an official adaptation of author Jean Rhys's novel of the same name.
The film stars Karina Lombard, Nathaniel Parker, Claudia Robinson, Michael York, and Rachel Ward in significant roles.
The story of this NC-17 feature traces the journey of French colonist Annette Cosway, who, after having fallen into the grasp of poverty, decides to marry a racist Englishman named Paul Mason.
The screenplay showcases the complex situations that arise after Annette's young son loses his life in a fire and Mason leaves her to fend for herself. The film was given an NC-17 rating because of the inclusion of implicit scenes in its screenplay.