Judi Dench Criticizes Trigger Warnings in Theater and Movies

Judi Dench attended the “Allelujah” European Premiere at the BFI London Film Festival on October 9, 2022. The event took place at the Southbank Centre in London, England.

At 91 years old, Dench shared her views on trigger warnings in an excerpt from her upcoming memoir, “Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?” She expressed frustration with the presence of these warnings in theaters and movies.

“I think they have gone too far,” Dench said. “It’s mollycoddling. If you’re that sensitive, don’t go to the theater.”

Dench argued that trigger warnings have overshadowed other considerations, such as age limits and sound effects.

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

She joked about how lengthy warnings could spoil classic stories. Using “Titus Andronicus” as an example, she noted that excessive warnings could diminish audience enjoyment.

Dench relayed her desire for theater and movies to stimulate and provoke. She illustrated her point with an analogy, mentioning a friend with an aversion to bananas and asking if supermarkets should warn about them.

The actress reiterated her sentiments in a 2024 interview, explaining that while some warnings could be understandable, overly sensitive individuals should avoid theater experiences to prevent shock.

Christian Toto, a film critic and host of the “Hollywood in Toto” podcast, supported Dench’s viewpoint. He claimed Dench’s remarks reflected a common-sense perspective on the potential impact of art.

“Dench’s statement on trigger warnings is obvious, but it still needs to be said today,” Toto said. “It’s especially helpful coming from an artist. Almost anything in art can be triggering, all depending on the audience.”

Toto highlighted that art is meant to challenge perceptions, and Dench’s insights help maintain that artistic integrity.