Archive · 20 Sep 2026
Why David Cronenberg’s Crash Still Provokes Moral Panic
Crash is a film by David Cronenberg that made many people very uncomfortable.
The backlash began when it was shown at the Cannes film festival.
Francis Ford Coppola reportedly disliked it.
Critic Alexander Walker said the film was extremely immoral.
There were also attempts to ban it in England.
The film is not easy for everyone to watch.
However, Cronenberg is described as being interested in his characters rather than simply trying to shock viewers.
The article says his movies can contain humor and emotional tenderness.
It compares his interest in human extremes to that of filmmaker Luis Buñuel.
David Cronenberg’s Crash provoked intense backlash after premiering at Cannes.
Francis Ford Coppola reportedly disliked the film while serving as Cannes jury president.
Critic Alexander Walker called Crash “beyond the bounds of depravity.”
Attempts were made to ban the film in England, though the article gives no outcome.
The article argues that Cronenberg treats his characters with curiosity, humor, and unexpected compassion.
- Who
- David Cronenberg made Crash; critics, filmmakers, and audiences reacted strongly to it.
- What
- Crash provoked moral controversy and attempts at censorship while also receiving a defense as a curious, darkly humorous work.
- When
- The backlash began after the film’s Cannes premiere; the article does not specify the premiere date.
- Where
- The controversy centered on Cannes and included attempted bans in England.
- Why
- The film’s transgressive content provoked accusations of depravity and moral panic.
Defenders of Artistic Provocation
Critics and Censors
Purpose of the film
Defenders of Artistic Provocation
Crash is presented as a thoughtful exploration of human extremes, with curiosity, wry humor, and moments of tenderness.
Critics and Censors
Critics viewed the film as excessively depraved and beyond acceptable limits.
Public response
Defenders of Artistic Provocation
The film’s ability to provoke difficult reactions is treated as evidence of its artistic power.
Critics and Censors
The backlash included strong condemnation and attempts to ban the film in England.
- Film
- Crash
- Director
- David Cronenberg
- Initial controversy
- The backlash began at the film’s Cannes premiere.
- Cannes reaction
- Francis Ford Coppola reportedly hated the film while serving as jury president.
- Critical response
- Alexander Walker called Crash “beyond the bounds of depravity.”
- Censorship
- There were attempts to ban the film in England.
- Critical defense
- The article says Cronenberg treats his characters with curiosity and does not view them simply as freaks or deviants.