British Film Institute to release restored 4K version of Pasolini’s Salò

The British Film Institute is set to release a newly restored 4K Ultra HD version of Pier Paolo Pasolini’s 1975 film, ‘Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom’, on October 26.

The film, set in the fascist Salò Republic of Italy during World War II, depicts four wealthy libertines subjecting 18 teenagers to extreme psychological and physical torture. Due to its graphic content, the film faced significant censorship in the United Kingdom. In 1976, the British Board of Film Classification rejected it for “gross indecency,” and in 1977, police raided a London cinema to seize an uncut screening.

While historically controversial, the film is recognized by many critics and filmmakers as a profound political allegory regarding fascism and power. It eventually received an 18 rating from the BBFC in 2000. The upcoming release will include a Blu-ray with additional material.