‘dramatic Decline9 In Film Censorship Since 1977... (Press, 15 May 1980)

Film censorship in New Zealand has significantly declined since the introduction of the Cinematograph Act in April 1977, according to Miss Patricia Bartlett, the secretary of the Society for the Protection of Community Standards. She expressed concern over the Film Review Board's recent decision to reinstate two previously banned films, "Scum" and "Wrangler Thugs," as indicative of this trend. Miss Bartlett argued that the new law allows for excessive violence and indecency as long as it is not the dominant aspect of the film, leading to what she perceives as a deterioration in censorship standards. Since the Cinematograph Act's implementation, the Appeal Board has overturned seven of the eleven decisions made by Chief Film Censor Mr B. C. Tunnicliffe, suggesting a systematic lowering of standards in film classification. Miss Bartlett highlighted the society's shock when the Film Review Board approved "Immoral Tales," a film banned by the censor for its portrayal of anti-social behaviour and denigration of women and religion. Despite the society obtaining a legal opinion indicating the board had erred, no action was taken to rectify the decision. Miss Bartlett urged the Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr Highet, to establish clearer criteria prioritising public welfare in film classification. She also pointed out that only parties with vested interests, like film distributors, currently have the right to appeal censorship decisions, leaving the general public and various organisations without recourse. In response, Judge Beatson, chairman of the Film Censorship Board of Review, defended the board, stating its members are reasonable individuals concerned about community standards and not overly liberal. He noted that the board had upheld decisions half the time it reviewed films, with only eleven reviews conducted since its inception. Mr Tunnicliffe affirmed the board's independence, stating each decision is made fresh, without influence from previous rulings. He maintained that the adjustments made with the new Act align with public opinion over more restrictive past legislation and emphasised the need for flexibility in governance to reflect societal changes. The differing perspectives underscore a broader debate about the appropriateness of current film censorship standards in New Zealand, with Miss Bartlett calling for restored limitations to prevent a perceived descent into a culture of indecency. Meanwhile, officials from the Film Censorship Board maintain that the revised criteria accurately reflect contemporary societal values and allow for ongoing dialogue around film content and censorship.

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