Censor's Annual Report - Violence Concerns

Censor's Annual Report Stresses Increasing Concern About Violence

Chief Censor Bill Hastings, in the 2000 Annual Report for Office of Film and Literature Classification, stated he has "increasing concerns about the level of violence and sexual violence in films, computer games and sound recordings."

The 35mm films Chopper and American Psycho, Eminem's music CD The Slim Shady LP, and computer game Soldier of Fortune proved especially problematic. All four pushed the boundaries of censorship law and were classified R18 as a result.

The Slim Shady LP caused particular concern because youth are a large part of Eminem's audience, some of whom are highly impressionable. The CD contains descriptions of drug use, violence and sexual violence with misogynistic language and nihilistic attitudes throughout.

A major research project into appropriate ratings and classifications for films and videos reflected the Chief Censor's concerns and rated sexual violence, sex, and graphic violence as the three main areas of public concern.

Contact: Bill Hastings or Cathrine Austin on:
Ph (04) 471 6770

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