Cannes shocker ‘Antichrist’ to be released uncut in UK

London, June 13: The uncut version of Cannes Film Festival’s most controversial film ‘Antichrist’ is set for release in Britain. The film directed by Lars von Trier will be released with an 18 certificate - rated by the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) with a warning it contains "strong real sex, bloody violence and self-mutilation".

The last of these refers to a graphic scene of genital mutilation involving lead actress Charlotte Gainsbourg, who has already won the best actress prize at Cannes for her work in the film. The psychological thriller revolves around a grieving couple - played by Gainsbourg and Willem Dafoe - who retreat to an isolated cabin in the woods after a family tragedy. Von Trier had to face aggressive reporters following Antichrist`s first screening at Cannes, who accused him of misogyny. However, the Danish filmmaker defended the scene where Gainsbourg`s character mutilates herself, saying it "came in naturally". Other scenes of the film include depict penetrative sex, masturbation and extreme torture. The BBFC said it had no doubt that "some viewers will find the images disturbing and offensive." Distributor Artificial Eye said it fully supported the BBFC`s decision "to allow people to make up their own minds about the film". "It’s our duty as a distributor to present the works of talented directors such as Lars von Trier in their original form," The BBC quoted CEO, Philip Knatchbull as saying. ANI