One of the things about Salo though: To hate or seriously dislike it means it has worked - it's success rests on its ability to generate repugnance, loathing, hatred. It is a work of art, in that what it translates is horribly loathsome and visceral. As for Cannibal Holocaust, films with actual animal violence never do it for me.

But I don't think you're getting what I'm saying. I didn't dislike it because it was offensive or repugnant. I disliked it because it was just plain bad. Bad script, bad acting, bad camara work. Just bad all around. It didn't inspire offence, repugnance, or loathing. It inspired bored and a sincere desire to get back the time I wasted watching it. It was not shocking or even thought provoking, unless that thought is 'Dear god, why am I still watching this crap!' For a movie that I had alway heard was so extreme and hard to watch it was woefully lacking these qualities and many more that make even a good movie. It was not '...horribly loathsome and visceral', it was boring and a waste of time.
Cannibal Holocaust wasn't all it was cracked up to be either, but it was closer to the mark. And it is at least a watchable movie, it didn't bore me to tears.

I understand. For me it wasn't so much the content that was offensive (it is, but far from the worst), but rather the context, the degradation and torture of basically a bunch of kids. I can definitely see your point though, its not in any of my "favorite film" lists, but it definitely has merit.

The messege is good, but context alone does not made a good movie. Ijust think it's importance is overrated.
"....the degradation and torture of basically a bunch of kids" Isn't that about 75% of all horror movies?

Cannibal Holocaust for sure. its a better crafted movie through and though.


Salo was just annoying.