(Don't know if this has been done before but) Movies so Traumatizing You Could Only Watch It Once.

[Bugguy]

1Midnight Express (1978): This hit me square between the eyes, as several years prior, in my early 20's, I was living alone working in a government capacity in South Korea and was frequently exposed to situations similar to those events that landed the young man in the movie in a Turkish prison. At the time, we laughed off any risks and rationalized that if there was trouble, the US embassy would run interference. The profound take-away from the story, however, was just how vulnerable, naive, clueless we were. We could have become someone's leverage in a grievance with the US and a PR nightmare. At the time we were nearing the end of a very unpopular 'police action', so nerves were raw. It scared me then, and now. I can't watch it again.

 

[Fandorin]

The Lighthouse, 2019 with Robert Pattinson and Wilhelm Dafoe. So disturbing I couldn't finish it. And a constant reminder, since I live in the land of the lighthouses, Maine USA.

 

[DesertDan]

Grave of the Fireflies
Fantastic movie, beautiful animation. I never want to watch it again.

 

[wayose]

As I age, I realize I've seen some great movies in my life. Films that affected me greatly and struck me to the core. I've also come to realize that there are some I can only watch once. Every time these films come up again on TCM or some streaming service I have to pass them by. While I admire them... I simply cannot relive said trauma again. Here's a list off the top of my head.

"12 Years a Slave" - A wonderful film. Well made but too traumatizing to watch once more.

"Storm Warning" - My Mom wouldn't let me watch it as a child. I finally saw it as an adult and realized why.

"Mississippi Burning" - Same reasons as No. 1.

"Come and See" - Perhaps the rawest depiction of the hell of war ever made.

"Shindler's List" - For obvious reasons.

"Do the Right Thing" - I lived through this while growing up in the Projects of NY City. No need to reopen that wound. Google Clifford Glover fm whatsapp download old version.

"Judas and the Black Messiah" - Been there done that in REAL time.

"Salo" - Some things people aren't meant to see.

As you can tell most of these have to do with racism in America. Problem is I watched the Civil Rights Marches and assassinations' in real time. It's just something you carry and cannot shake.

Worf

Your list reflects a deep connection to films that have profoundly impacted you emotionally, especially those addressing systemic racism and historical trauma. It’s understandable to admire their artistry while choosing not to revisit their difficult themes. Personal experiences often amplify the weight of such stories, making them unforgettable but emotionally taxing. Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt perspective.