Incest, a taboo and sensitive subject matter, refers to sexual relations between closely related individuals. In cinema, this theme has been explored in various contexts, depicting the complexities, psychological ramifications, and societal taboos surrounding it. Films addressing incest often delve into the depth of human emotions, conflicts, and the controversial nature of such relationships. Below are films that have tackled the theme of incest, each bringing a unique perspective to this challenging topic.
“The Dreamers”, 2003
Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, this film is set against the backdrop of the 1968 Paris student riots. It explores the intense relationship between an American university student and a French brother and sister duo, including themes of sexual exploration and incest.
Starring: Michael Pitt, Eva Green, Louis Garrel, Anna Chancellor, Robin Renucci, Jean-Pierre Kalfon, Jean-Pierre Léaud, Florian Cadiou, Pierre Hancisse, Valentin Merlet;
Production year: 2003;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: nc17;
Duration: 116 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Dreamers” on the website imdb.com
“Oldboy”, 2013
Director: Spike Lee
A South Korean neo-noir action thriller directed by Park Chan-wook. This film tells the story of a man who is imprisoned in a cell for 15 years and then released. Upon seeking revenge, he uncovers a shocking and tragic family secret involving incest.
Starring: Josh Brolin, Sharlto Copley, Elizabeth Olsen, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Imperioli, Pom Klementieff, James Ransone, Max Casella, Linda Emond, Elvis Nolasco;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: thriller, drama, detective, action;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 104 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,8;
More information about the film “Oldboy” on the website imdb.com
“Dogtooth”, 2012
Director: Garald Paul
A Greek drama directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. It presents a disturbing tale of a couple who keep their children ignorant of the world outside their property well into adulthood. The isolation and control lead to incestuous behavior among the siblings.
Starring: Chris Ohara, Garald Paul, Drew Wyrick;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: short film;
Rating: IMDB: 0;
“Incendies”, 2010
Director: Denis Villeneuve
A Canadian war drama by Denis Villeneuve, adapted from Wajdi Mouawad's play. Following their mother's death, twins journey to the Middle East to uncover their family's history and a complex web of secrets that includes incest.
Starring: Lubna Azabal, Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin, Maxim Gaudette, Rémy Girard, Allen Altman, Abdelghafour Elaaziz, Mustafa Kamel, Hussein Sami, Dominique Briand, Frédéric Paquet;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, detective, war;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 131 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,3;
These films, while controversial, explore the theme of incest with depth, offering a window into the darkest corners of human relations and the complexities of forbidden love. Viewer discretion is advised due to the sensitive and potentially disturbing content of these films.
In the realm of cinema, films about incest probe the darkest corners of human relationships, exposing the complex and often taboo emotions intertwined with familial bonds. These films, through their provocative and unsettling narratives, challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about love, desire, and morality. The daring filmmakers behind these works navigate the fine line between sensationalism and sensitive portrayal, offering a varied lens on a controversial topic. Whether it is through the psychological depth of character study or the tragic dimensions of their plots, these films evoke a range of responses, from empathy to revulsion, ultimately enriching the cinematic landscape with their bold exploration of forbidden love. In doing so, they prompt a deeper understanding of the human condition, inviting audiences to reflect on the often arbitrary boundaries that dictate who and how we love.
