For those immersed in the world of horror films, especially when exploring titles like The Beyond or Island of Death, the term “Video Nasty” might frequently surface. Initially, it might seem like just another descriptor, but delving deeper reveals a fascinating and controversial chapter in horror history. For years, encountering this term often coincided with DVD releases of notorious films, with fans excitedly proclaiming, “Finally, a Video Nasty gets a DVD release!” Fueled by curiosity and armed with an all-region DVD player, the quest to understand the “Video Nasty” phenomenon began, seeking to uncover which of these infamous films were essential to own and experience.
This documentary serves as the crucial key to unlocking the saga of the “Video Nasties.” It meticulously chronicles the introduction of the Video Recordings Act of 1984 in the UK and the ensuing crackdown where police raided video rental shops, confiscating titles deemed “Video Nasties” – films believed to be morally corrupting society. The documentary highlights the intense societal reaction to horror films, a genre already known for its diverse and often extreme reception. Witnessing how an entire nation grappled with a list of horror films is truly captivating. It expertly navigates the historical events, legal battles, and cultural panic surrounding this era, making it absolutely essential viewing for any horror aficionado.
A still from the Video Nasties documentary, showcasing the era of moral panic and media censorship surrounding horror films in the UK.
The DVD extras are a treasure trove in themselves, featuring trailers for every single film that landed on the infamous “Video Nasties” list. Acquiring this documentary stands out as one of the most rewarding purchases for any dedicated horror fan. It ignited a personal mission to seek out the remaining 33 films on the list, turning film collecting into an exciting hunt through cinematic history. While not every film on the list is readily available on DVD, dedicated searching, as this documentary encourages, often yields surprising results.
This documentary is not just recommended; it’s imperative viewing. For anyone who considers themselves a true horror devotee, obtaining this documentary is doing yourself a significant favor. Furthermore, for horror collectors, it’s an absolute must-have. It serves as the starting point for one of the most intriguing and rewarding collecting journeys imaginable, plunging you into the depths of “Video Nasty” history and the films that sparked a cultural firestorm.
