The chief censor hunts for the big five: Sex, horror, crime, cruelty and violence
After tweaks to the law in recent decades, the independent Crown entity covers films, books and computer games. One thing hasn’t changed. Most people still agree definitions of the “public good” will always be subjective.
From his Wellington office, Jack says social attitudes to controversial issues have moved since he took over in March 2011, but the pace is slow.
What’s important is ensuring the censorship office keeps in touch with the community, maintains relevance, an ability to reflect social values, not impose them from above. Key to that is frequently escaping the “Wellington ivory tower” and ensuring staff have a life outside work, so Dr Jack says he spends much time talking to community groups.