VIEWERS’ VIEWS

Press, 23 October 1980, Page 15

VIEWERS’ VIEWS

CENTREPOINT

Sir, —Having watched “Centrepoint — A Spiritual Growth Community” on prime time, I would like to add my opinion on what must be the most controversial programme yet shown by New Zealand television. In spite of dire warnings of its being offensive, etc., Television New Zealand advertised it as “a spiritual growth — spiritual enlightment.” Old Bert appeared to be a great white chief presiding over his tribe. He had it made, of course, with his prerogative of planting a kiss smack on the lips of the men and cuddling all the women. Who, we could reasonably ask, was Bert? Contrary to all such documentaries (?), interviews are usual. This viewer found it all a bit of a giggle except for two issues. There would have to be a dangerous and farreaching reaction on the minds of the children absorbed unwittingly into such a lascivious and lustful life-style. Also what would be the extent of brainwashing necessary to make these people readjust to normal life when they decide to leave their self-imposed prison for the outside world And they are going to leave it eventually, they always do. How can a completely naked woman possibly give birth to her child in a standing position supported by a couple of strong men? This all taking place on a stage erected above a gaping, avid audience? To cap it all, viewers were subjected to some peculiar rite — the burial of the placenta. Yuk, and, again, Yuk; Rome and Greece were never like this, and look what happened to them. One wonders if Television New Zealand has' other “blue” movies, tucked up their sleeves, or were they just “conning” us?—Yours, etc., ;