Sex and violence

Sex and violence

Blatant sex and violence in films and on television has long
been the subject of recurring debate among Indonesians. Although
the link between televised violence and actual violence in
society has never been proven -- some people believe that no such
a link exists -- many people worry that the visual impact of
television can leave such a strong impression that it shapes
people's behavior. This explains the recurring expressions of
disapproval voiced in the past.

So there is really not much new in the recent exchange of
ideas among Indonesia's six television networks on the subject of
sex and violence. What is new, however, is that this time all six
television stations agreed to limit airing programs that lean
excessively on sex and violence. An agreement that is long
overdue. Aside from the possible negative psychological impact on
individuals, most of the films now on television are of such
inferior taste and quality that they counteract all efforts being
made to educate the public.

The public, and parents of young children in particular, can
only wait and hope that viewers will be presented with not only
less vulgar sex and violence, but with better quality programing
than aired so far. Station managers and programming directors
are, no doubt, as aware as the rest of us of the risks to which
they are exposing people, especially the very young and the
impressionable. The fact is, however, television stations need
money to stay in business and if airing cheap but popular
programs helps, then little will be done to improve programming.

It is an old problem, and finding a way out of it is easier
said than done. The primary goal is to gradually raise the
viewing tastes of the public and filmmakers to such heights that
quality films are appreciated enough to sustain and nurture a
healthy film industry. With sufficient appreciation for tasteful,
quality films, the preference for base sex and violence will
naturally be pushed into the background. Indonesia, moreover,
provides a wealth of material for good filmmakers to produce
high-quality films.

The question is one of priorities. The long-term option is to
educate the public and let most of the existing film industry,
the theaters and television stations languish. The short-term
option is to give the public what it wants, pushing education to
rollick in the back row, and allow filmmakers and television
stations to flourish with the hope they will rehabilitate
themselves.

How the agreement among the six television networks will work
in practice is uncertain. However, the accord to curb sex and
violence on our television screens may provide a welcome chance
for the best Indonesian filmmakers to produce works that are at
least on a par with China's great contemporary directors and
producers. The talent exists among the young filmmakers we have
at present, there just needs to be a market.