Dissecting Cannibal Holocaust
Since its release in 1980, the Italian cannibal film Cannibal Holocaust has shocked and provoked viewers with its graphic imagery and unrelenting nihilism. Banned all over the world, Cannibal Holocaust is regarded as one of the most controversial films ever released.
Following a summary of the story and the controversy over its release, Dissecting Cannibal Holocaust examines the film’s relevance to cinematic and literary history, anthropology, nature studies, ethics and censorship, media and journalism, documentary filmmaking, representations of cannibalism and post-colonialism, and genre cinema. The book also addresses some of the most frequent criticisms of Cannibal Holocaust including its depictions of native people and the inclusion of real-life animal killings. Matching the audacity of the film itself, Dissecting Cannibal Holocaust makes provocative arguments about the influence of corporate media, the purpose of art, the relationship between industrialized and indigenous people, the amorality of nature, and the roots of violence.
Nathan Wardinski is producer and host of the public radio program Sounds of Cinema.