10. The Rev Maxwell Bonner asked -

(a) In the light of the nature of the worldwide publicity received by the actor Hugh Grant this year, why did the September issue of the Southern Cross newspaper publish a review of his M rated film "Nine Months" and, on the front page, further draw attention to the review and with a photograph?

(b) Is there any evidence that secular film reviews promote godliness and piety?

(c) In the light of scriptures like Philippians 4:8 and the long tradition in evangelicalism advising caution in and, frequently, total abstention from questionable amusements and since film reviews are often written by senior staff of "Southern Cross", does "Southern Cross" believe such reviews promote the well-being of the Church and the glory of God?

To which the Archbishop replied -

I am informed the answer is as follows -

(a) The review of Nine Months was run - and flagged on the front of Southern Cross Newspaper - in order to offer a Christian response to what was already proving to be a widely viewed film and to serve as a guide for Christians wanting to choose suitable viewing.

As the review said, "The fundamental theme - commitment vs. selfishness - is about coming to terms with your responsibility towards others, rather than your claim on a comfortable life, and there is a strong pro-family sentiment. Unfortunately, it's still not one for the kids. Although much of the humour seems pitched at youngsters, swearing and sexual innuendo have been thrown in seemingly to tempt older audiences, and the M-rating is a shame. At last we have a mostly gentle, amusing and positive film to see, and we still can't bring the family along."

(b) No comment can be made about secular film reviews. However, Christian reviews have proved and are proving helpful in equipping Christians with the tools to critique and evaluate the film medium, as well as to help resist the process of conforming to the values of this age.

(c) Strictly this question is out of order since it contains expressions of opinion. However, from a 1992 survey, more than 85% of Southern Cross readers and subscribers regularly viewed secular films or videos, and the large majority of these readers found the reviews to be helpful.