Faces of Death Poster

Faces of Death 1978

★ 4.5200 votes105 min📅 1978-11-10

"Experience the graphic reality of Death, close-up..."

Dive into the chilling world of *Faces of Death (1978)*, a controversial horror documentary that confronts the raw, unfiltered reality of mortality.

Director: John Alan Schwartz

Cast

Michael Carr
Michael Carr
Dr. Francis B. Gröss
Samuel Berkowitz
Self - Cryogenics patient
Mary Ellen Brighton
Self - suicide victim shown jumping out of a window
John Alan Schwartz
Leader of Flesh Eating Cult (uncredited)
Adolf Hitler
Adolf Hitler
Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Thomas Noguchi
Thomas Noguchi
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Faces of Death (1978) about?

This cult horror documentary compiles a disturbing collection of real and staged death scenes, blending news footage, homemade films, and medical reports into a grim exploration of mortality. The film doesn't shy away from graphic content, forcing viewers to confront the inevitability of death in its rawest forms.

Who directed Faces of Death?

John Alan Schwartz (also credited as John Alan Schwartz) is the director behind this controversial documentary.

Who stars in Faces of Death?

The film features Michael Carr, Samuel Berkowitz, and Mary Ellen Brighton as its main human contributors, while Adolf Hitler and forensic pathologist Thomas Noguchi appear in archival or referenced roles.

Is Faces of Death (1978) worth watching?

While *Faces of Death* is undeniably unsettling and ethically questionable, its cult status and bold approach to the horror genre make it a fascinating watch for those curious about extreme cinema. Its IMDb unrated status adds to its mystique, but viewers should be prepared for intense content. Approach with caution—it's not for the faint of heart.

How long is Faces of Death?

The film has a runtime of 105 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Faces of Death (1978) — The Shocking Exploration of Death on Film

Dive into the chilling world of *Faces of Death (1978)*, a controversial horror documentary that confronts the raw, unfiltered reality of mortality. Directed by John Alan Schwartz, this cult classic compiles a grim anthology of death scenes—ranging from televised footage to unsettling homemade Super 8 films—each united by the stark theme of life's abrupt end. With a runtime of 105 minutes, the film immerses viewers in a taboo exploration of violence, tragedy, and the macabre, stripping away sanitized narratives to reveal death in its most visceral forms.

Often debated for its ethical boundaries, *Faces of Death* challenges audiences to grapple with their own discomfort while blurring the lines between exploitation and documentary. The atmosphere is oppressive, punctuated by eerie narration and a haunting visual style that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether you're a horror enthusiast or a curious cinephile, this film demands attention—and perhaps a strong stomach.