Television Manages An Adult Study (Press, 3 February 1977)
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Summary: Television Manages An Adult Study (Press, 3 February 1977)
On 3 February 1977, D. McKenzie provided a review of Thames Television's broadcast of "The Naked Civil Servant," a portrayal of the homosexual life that was noted for its matter-of-fact and unemotional presentation. The programme, which aired on TVI, straddled the line between being suitable for children and providing a documentary feel akin to cinema, suggesting it might not require young viewers to be sent to bed early. McKenzie compared the content to traditional children's entertainment, indicating that the themes explored were more mature, yet still accessible. The reviewer highlighted the rarity of seeing same-sex affection on screen, referencing past films that touched on similar themes. While the programme was deemed fascinating, it was not described as enthralling. It was a story of courage and determination centred around the life of Quentin Crisp, whose challenges were vividly portrayed. McKenzie noted a humorous moment in the programme, where Crisp's attempt to enlist in the army during World War II resulted in disbelief at the recruitment centre that was so absurd it could fit into a "Monty Python" sketch. In contrast, McKenzie also reflected on another series, "Close to Home," which had undergone significant changes, noting improvements in direction and camera work. However, it still faced issues with storytelling, leading to a lack of memorable narratives. The review pointed out that the actors seemed hesitant to fully express themselves, likening the series to a training ground for performers. The episode reviewed involved a hostage situation, which was not new for television, having been addressed multiple times in the previous year. Lastly, McKenzie touched on the series "Moynihan," suggesting that while it faced fewer challenges regarding originality, it did not captivate its audience either. The reviewer concluded with a note on viewer prejudice, questioning the impact on audiences who might refuse to watch a particular actor due to personal biases. This sentiment highlighted a broader issue concerning audience reception and acceptance of diverse representations in media at the time.
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