A Touch Of Class From Whicker (Press, 24 September 1975)

On 24 September 1975, a commentary was published discussing a documentary by Alan Whicker that focused on the experiences and issues faced by American homosexuals. The piece highlighted the irony in the use of the term "gay," which is traditionally associated with joy and cheerfulness. It noted that the individuals interviewed were not lighthearted but rather engaged in serious discussions about their lives and challenges as homosexuals. The commentary observed that those expecting to see flamboyant stereotypes of homosexuals would be disappointed, as the documentary featured ordinary people articulating their thoughts about their struggles. While some representatives of the gay movement exaggerated their claims, the overall tone of the discussions was presented as sober and intelligent. It praised Whicker for addressing the sensitive topic with sensitivity and respect, in contrast to some of his previous works which had a more sensationalist angle. The programme was deemed a significant contribution to the ongoing discussion around homosexual law reform, suggesting it painted the gay experience in a more positive and relatable light. The commentary also touched on the quality of television programming that night, noting that the finale of “Upstairs, Downstairs” was particularly moving due to its portrayal of the contrasting innocence of the pre-World War I era against the impending doom of war, evoking contemplation about individual struggles amidst larger historical events. In contrast, the reviewer expressed disappointment with a different show, “My Wife Next Door,” which was described as a lacklustre comedy starring John Aiderton and Hannah Gordon. The premise of the show, involving a couple living next to each other post-divorce yet still in love, was critiqued for being unfunny and poorly scripted. Overall, the commentary reflected a positive assessment of Whicker's documentary and the portrayal of homosexual issues while lamenting the existence of subpar entertainment within the television landscape. It concluded with an appreciation for the effectiveness of quality television drama, implying a desire for more programming of similar calibre.

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