Film Censorship In New Zealand Examined (Press, 29 January 1971)

In a detailed examination of film censorship in New Zealand, Peter Boyes highlights a concerning trend as the Film Censor has become increasingly strict in evaluating and banning films. This shift is attributed to a petition spearheaded by Patricia Bartlett in the previous year, which, although returned to Parliament without recommendation, seems to have influenced the Censor’s decisions. Boyes notes that while the film censorship system provides a useful grading mechanism to assist parents in selecting appropriate films for their children, it has increasingly adopted standards that appear overly cautious and child-centric. The Cinematograph Films Act stipulates that films must be assessed based on their impact on public order and decency, with the Censor empowered to deny approval to films deemed unsuitable. While this is meant to protect audiences from explicit content, many films rejected by the Censor are not pornographic but rather significant works of cinema that have gained acceptance in other countries. Boyes cites several such films that faced bans, including "Inferno of First Love" and "Performance," the latter receiving acclaim abroad yet remaining unseen in New Zealand. There is a growing discrepancy between the evolving social standards regarding nudity and sexuality in countries like Britain and the United States, and the more conservative stance taken by the New Zealand Censor. The rigorous application of censorship has led to the alteration of numerous films rated for adult audiences, such as "Rosemary's Baby" and "Woodstock," raising concerns about the sanctity of artistic expression and the intelligence of the viewing public. Boyes argues that for those who view film censorship as a necessary aspect of societal protection, reforms are needed to improve the existing system. He proposes that films should be evaluated in their entirety to eliminate arbitrary cuts, particularly for those intended for adult audiences. Furthermore, he suggests establishing differentiated standards for general versus restricted exhibition, insisting that films rated R should not undergo any cuts. The article ultimately calls for changes that would enhance the film censorship system in New Zealand, ensuring that it better reflects contemporary values while preserving the integrity of cinema for adult audiences.

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