What Horror Movies Should You Avoid?
Recently, I started watching season 4 of Stranger Things, a series that revolves around young teenagers facing evil and supernatural forces. Despite its thrilling and intense content, some scenes, particularly the opening, feature extreme violence and graphic imagery that could be distressing for many viewers. Thinking about young audiences, I realize that sometimes, even in the realm of horror, one needs to tread carefully.
Tips for Avoiding Triggers
Before diving into a horror movie, especially one that might contain elements like sexual assault, stalking, home invasions, mental illness, demonic possession, extreme gore, and other disturbing content, it is essential to read the synopsis and understand what you might be encountering. This can help you decide if the movie suits your comfort level or if you should avoid it.
My Non-negotiables: Violent Horror Movies I Will Not Watch
While I cannot say that I would avoid every horror movie, there are a few films that are so graphically violent and disturbing that I will never watch. Here are some examples:
Human Centipede III
I have the misfortune of having seen the first two films in this series, and I deeply regret it. These movies are so revolting that I absolutely cannot bring myself to watch the third. The sheer graphic nature of the content makes it impossible for me to continue.
A Serbian Film
Just hearing about this film from plot summaries and YouTube videos is enough to make me want to vomit. The brutality portrayed in this movie is so gratuitous and extreme that I have no intention of watching it. I believe such content should not exist and can be deeply disturbing, especially for younger audiences.
Salo 120 Days of Sodom
This movie's description alone is enough to make me sick. Reports suggest it glorifies child sexual abuse, a topic which is both taboo and intensely disturbing. Even a brief glimpse of one clip made me want to stay far away. The glorification of extreme torture, especially when it involves children, is deeply repulsive to me. Movies that promote such content should be banned.
Extreme and Sexual Torture
In addition to the movies mentioned above, I have watched a few torture scenes in other films. There are some which I can tolerate, such as a scene in Sherlock Holmes 2, but the specifically violent and gruesome scenes are too much for me. I cannot watch scenes like the flogging in the Passion of Christ, as they evoke too much disgust. The films I mentioned above take it a step too far by involving sexual elements, which seem to cross an ethical line.
Conclusion
While I will not watch movies like those mentioned above, it is important to recognize that everyone has their limits and comfort levels. Before watching any horror movie, it is advisable to check the synopsis and be aware of the content to avoid any unexpected distress. Remember, there are many other thrilling and engaging horror movies out there that do not cross the line into extreme violence or disturbing themes.