CHILDREN AND MOVIES

Waikato Times, Volume 108, Issue 18113, 2 September 1930, Page 6

CHILDREN AND MOVIES

Children show a reluctance to enjoy films composed especially for their benefit —that is the view of the League of Nations, which has taken up this problem because the cinema industry is nothing if not international and the effects on children are a matter about which Governments are becoming increasingly concerned. That the cinema ■may be a powerful influence for evil is revealed by the numerous newspaper accounts of children and young people who break the law in trying to emulate the exploits of some film hero or villain. That-it has an equally powerful influence for good has long been realised by the teaching profession, and endeavours have been made with varying success 1 to place the film in the service of education. These matters are being studied by the Educational Cinematographic Institute in Rome under the auspices of the League. The Institute has undertaken a general enquiry into the psychological effect of films on children and this promises to be of the highest interest for all whe are concerned with education. In the meantime, it records its discovery of the fact that children consider films a recreation and a pastime and often object to those specially composed for their benefit. They prefer adventure films (journeys, exploration, deeds of daring) which picture life as full of effort, novelty and danger. They are particularly attracted by films In which children play a prominent part. There is a real demand for wholesome films interpreted by children. But to find the type of film for which there is a real juvenile demand is only half of the problem. The other half is the question of the financial inducement for producers of films. The Cinematographic Institute' suggests that individuals and private organisations concerned with education might establish cinematograph libraries which would purchase" and distribute educational films, and that such films should be wholly or largely exempt from Customs duties.