Judi Dench Criticizes Trigger Warnings in Theater and Film

Dame Judi Dench attended the “Allelujah” European Premiere at the 66th BFI London Film Festival on October 9, 2022, in London. During an interview with The Times, the 91-year-old actress condemned the use of trigger warnings in theaters and films, describing them as unnecessary ‘mollycoddling.’

In an excerpt from her upcoming memoir, “Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?,” Dench expressed her belief that trigger warnings have overstepped their bounds, overshadowing practical content advisories like age restrictions and sound warnings. She stated emphatically, “It’s mollycoddling. If you’re that sensitive, don’t go to the theater.”

“By all means, keep the warnings about strobe lighting and gunshots, and obviously there should be age limits for children, but that’s about it. Otherwise, where will it end?”

Dench humorously noted how such warnings could dull the surprise and excitement of classic tales. She questioned whether disclosing plot twists, as in an Agatha Christie play, actually enhances the audience’s experience.

She said, “In the safety of a theater or cinema, I want to be triggered, excited, stimulated, provoked and disturbed, to be taken out of my comfort zone. Isn’t that what makes theater and films so thrilling?”

The actress noted the unpredictability of triggers, recounting how a friend’s discomfort with bananas made her question the extent to which warnings should be applied in everyday settings, jokingly suggesting supermarkets might need warnings too.

These remarks were echoed in a 2024 interview where she acknowledged the intent behind content advisories but maintained her stance that overly sensitive individuals might be better off avoiding theaters to prevent being shocked.

“I can see why they exist, and it is preparing people, I suppose. But if you’re that sensitive, don’t go to the theater because you could be very shocked,” Dench remarked.

Film critic Christian Toto supported Dench’s viewpoint, pointing out the inherent challenge posed by art which can provoke diverse reactions across audiences. He said, “Art is meant to challenge us, to question our beliefs and offer new perspectives on older ideas. All of the above might be triggering today.” Toto lauded Dench for her straightforwardness in a cultural climate where such directness is uncommon.