Bernardo Bertolucci’s Last Tango in Paris, released in 1972, became the subject of renewed controversy decades later after comments by the director and actor Maria Schneider about a disputed scene resurfaced publicly.

Why the discussion changed

The renewed debate focused on informed consent, power relationships and the responsibilities of directors when filming intimate or disturbing material. Schneider said she felt humiliated by the experience; Bertolucci later explained his intentions but did not say that the sexual act itself was real.

The controversy became part of a wider Hollywood conversation about consent and workplace standards. Explore the Hollywood archive.

Imran Siddiqui

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