Oscar winner Dame Helen Mirren described the Caligula as “an irresistible mix of art and genitals.” But the Roman romp, released 45 years ago this month, caused widespread outrage and was instantly banned in most countries. 16 Caligula, which starred Helen Mirren and Malcolm McDowell, left the world dumbfounded when it was released Credit: Alamy 16 Helen Mirren said people who showed up on set fully clothed felt embarrassed Credit: Alamy 16 The film had several scenes where actors would engage in huge orgies Credit: Alamy 16 Malcolm McDowell was involved in most of the shocking scenes from the film Credit: Alamy Littered with full frontal nudity, gruesome sexual violence , necrophilia and steamy orgy scenes, the movie is enjoying a new audience after it was rereleased this week with never-before-seen footage.

Dame Helen, 79, who stars as the Emperor’s notoriously promiscuous wife Caesonia, has dismissed controversy but admits that "everyone was naked" on set. But Penthouse models later claimed they were forced into performing genuine sex acts in orgy scenes by their seedy boss, who produced the film. It remains mired in controversy even now.

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fans refuse to believe I'm not her Graphic content The new version has been repurposed and reimagined by American historian Thomas Negovan, who unearthed more than .