Watch Ban the Sadist Videos!

Ban the Sadist Videos! is a 2005 British horror-thriller directed by David Gregory. The movie is set in the late 1970s and tells the story of a group of activists who are outraged at the release of violent and depraved films on the VHS format. The film is based on the real-life events that led to the introduction of the Video Recordings Act of 1984, which regulated the sale, rental, and distribution of video recordings.

The movie follows the character of Martin Stafford (Chris Theobald), an ambitious and idealistic young man who is passionate about fighting against the "video nasties." Along with his girlfriend and fellow activist, Anne (Debbie Attwell), Martin sets out to expose the immoral and damaging content of these films to the public.

As Martin and Anne delve deeper into the world of violent movies, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a disheartened journalist named Tom (Barrie Gold), a right-wing politician named Graham (Norman Abbott), and a former video store owner named Dave (Bill Best). Together, the group of activists takes on the powerful and corrupt distributors of the "video nasties," including the ruthless and sadistic film producer, David Watkins (Michael Rayner).

As Martin and Anne become more deeply involved in the cause, they begin to experience the same kind of violence and depravity that they are fighting against. Martin's obsession with the cause drives a wedge between him and Anne, while Tom's disillusionment with the movement puts him at odds with the other activists.

The film features a gritty and unflinching portrayal of violence and brutality, with graphic scenes of torture, rape, and murder. However, Ban the Sadist Videos! is not just a shock-horror movie; it is a nuanced and thought-provoking look at the morality of censorship and the role of media in shaping our values and beliefs.

The performances of the cast are excellent, particularly Chris Theobald as Martin Stafford, who brings a powerful intensity to the role. The movie was also praised for its authentic 70s period setting, with an attention to detail in the clothes, music, and technology of the time.

One of the most striking elements of the film is its use of real-life footage and news reports of the era, which helps to give the film a sense of authenticity and urgency. The movie also includes a number of interviews with well-known figures in the British film industry, including Martin Barker, a leading figure in the campaign against "video nasties."

Overall, Ban the Sadist Videos! is an intense, provocative and powerful film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. It offers a chilling look at the brutal and exploitative movies of the 70s and 80s, while also raising important questions about censorship, freedom of speech, and the morality of media.

Ban the Sadist Videos! is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.