The 1990s were a decade known for their groundbreaking cinema, pushing boundaries and exploring new territories. However, some scenes once celebrated for their innovation and impact might not pass muster in today’s cultural landscape. Here are 14 iconic movie scenes from the ’90s that would likely face cancellation if they were released today.

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Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

The reveal scene, where Ace Ventura discovers the villain’s transgender identity, perpetuates harmful stereotypes through mockery and shock value. This portrayal of transgender individuals as objects of ridicule contributes to societal transphobia and lacks sensitivity towards gender identity issues. In today’s cultural context, such scenes would be rightfully condemned for their insensitivity and harmful impact on transgender communities.

American Beauty (1999)

The fantasy scene depicting Lester’s inappropriate attraction to his daughter’s teenage friend romanticizes predatory behavior. It portrays an older man’s lust for a young girl, crossing boundaries of consent and appropriateness. In light of current discussions around power dynamics and sexual exploitation, such scenes are rightfully viewed as problematic and potentially harmful.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

The portrayal of Buffalo Bill, a character associated with gruesome acts and mental illness, perpetuates harmful stereotypes about transgender individuals and mental health. Buffalo Bill’s identity as a transgender person is depicted sensationally, associating transgender identity with violence and deviance. Such

representation contributes to the stigmatization of transgender individuals and reinforces misconceptions about gender identity and mental illness.

Dumb and Dumber (1994)

The scene where Harry unknowingly drinks urine from a beer bottle crosses the line into bodily harm and humiliation. While intended for comedic effect, such scenes perpetuate harmful stereotypes and normalize degrading behavior. Today, there is a greater awareness of the impact of media on shaping societal attitudes and

scenes that trivialize bodily harm or degradation are rightfully seen as unacceptable.

The Birdcage (1996)

While celebrated for its LGBTQ+ representation, The Birdcage contains scenes that rely on stereotypes and caricatures of gay characters. These scenes perpetuate harmful tropes and fail to portray the diversity and complexity of LGBTQ+ experiences. Today, we know that scenes that rely on outdated stereotypes contribute to the marginalization and misrepresentation of LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting the importance of critical examination and responsible storytelling in media.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

The casual and excessive use of racial slurs throughout the film reinforces harmful stereotypes and contributes to a culture of racism and intolerance. The normalization of such language perpetuates systemic racism and fails to challenge harmful attitudes toward marginalized communities. Today, there is a greater recognition of the impact of media on shaping societal attitudes, and scenes that perpetuate racism are rightfully condemned.

Pretty Woman (1990)

Despite its comedic charm, Pretty Woman wouldn’t fare well today. The core romance involves a wealthy businessman essentially “rescuing” a sex worker through financial means. This reinforces unhealthy power dynamics and a transactional view of love. Additionally, Vivian’s transformation revolves around fitting into Edward’s world, suggesting her original life lacked value. Today’s audiences would likely criticize the film for objectifying women and failing to challenge societal inequalities.

There’s Something About Mary (1998)

The film’s humor, heavily reliant on stalking and manipulating a woman, wouldn’t fly today. Ted’s relentless pursuit of Mary, including hiring private investigators and faking circumstances, is seen as creepy and obsessive. The film normalizes unhealthy behavior towards someone you’re interested in. Additionally, the gross-out gags and objectification of Mary would likely be deemed disrespectful and insensitive.

Cruel Intentions (1999)

The depiction of sexual manipulation and coercion between teenagers, particularly the scene involving the infamous kiss between stepsiblings Sebastian and Kathryn, romanticizes abusive behavior and blurs the lines of consent. Such scenes normalize harmful power dynamics and fail to acknowledge the importance of clear and enthusiastic consent in sexual relationships.

Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)

Mike Myers’s portrayal of Fat Bastard in a fat suit perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces negative attitudes toward body image and weight. The character relies on exaggerated physical traits for comedic effect, contributing to the marginalization and ridicule of individuals struggling with obesity.

Clueless (1995)

Certain scenes in Clueless, including Cher’s flirtation with her stepbrother, lack sensitivity and fail to acknowledge the importance of clear boundaries and consent in relationships. The film’s portrayal of teenage sexuality lacks nuance and reinforces harmful stereotypes about teenage girls as objects of desire.

The Sixth Sense (1999)

The portrayal of mental illness, mainly through the character of Vincent Grey, perpetuates harmful stereotypes and stigmatizes individuals struggling with mental health issues. Vincent’s depiction as a violent and unstable individual reinforces misconceptions about mental illness and contributes to the marginalization of individuals with psychiatric disorders.

Natural Born Killers (1994)

The film’s glorification of violence and the media’s role in sensationalizing crime could be seen as irresponsible and dangerous in today’s climate of heightened awareness around mass shootings and violent crime. The hyper-stylized violence and graphic imagery in the film risk desensitizing audiences to the consequences of real-life violence.

Fight Club (1999)

The film’s anarchist themes and glorification of violence, exemplified in the destruction of corporate property, could be perceived as endorsing dangerous ideologies. Tyler Durden’s charismatic leadership, inspiring acts of vandalism and rebellion, risks romanticizing destructive behavior and undercutting peaceful activism.