THE FILMS AND THE CHILDREN

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 676, 30 May 1929, Page 8

THE FILMS AND THE CHILDREN

WHEN motion pictures were first introduced they presented simple stories abounding in vigorous action. “Wild West” films consisted largely of hard riding, gunplay and foiled villainy in exhilarating sequence. There was little attempt to he subtle, and to adults the cinema at this stage of its existence was a diversion attractive more for its mechanical innovations than for the character of its entertainment. But to children it was new magic. Youthful ideals of heroism sprang to life upon the screen, and youthful perceptions loved the vivid outline of its stories. Thus in the estimation of children the screen won a place it has never lost. “The pictures” are still a treat for the young. i As the screen’s technique advanced until it became a new and often highly meritorious form of dramatic art, the magnetism it exerted for children was not without its problems. Except in the case of a few broad comedies, producers could not spare time to depart from tlieir profitable interest in films made primarily for adults. Naturally, these had to deal with motives, passions and obsessions children could not properly understand. There was the risk that children would view these features in a wrong perspective, and though the film exhibitors of New Zealand have conscientiously endeavoured to present at matinee performances the most innocuous films at tlieir disposal, in default of some supporting organisation and a guiding principle they could not always succeed. Now, therefore, a voluntary organisation called the Better Films League has come to their aid, and the consummation of its efforts will be reached at a screening for children on Saturday. In its work the league has not only Vice-Regal patronage, but active Vice-Regal support. Indeed, there is reason for believing that Lady Alice Fergusson, while remaining rather in the background, has provided both the original impulse and much of the enthusiasm in this commendable movement. The ready assistance tendered oil behalf of New Zealand exhibitors by the Messrs. Hayward cannot he overlooked, and betokens the lively interest the exhibitors have in any arrangement to select suitable programmes for the children. What the committee of selection appointed by the league must not ignore is the vital need of bringing careful judgments to hear. If the programmes it chooses are too abstruse, too profound, or—to use a term that groups all the contingencies—too “highbrow,” the doom of the movement will he sealed. Tlie first essential is that the programmes must entertain the children. After that, the children will show a lively desire to attend the performances, and parents will with complete confidence he able to gratify tlieir wishes.