GLASGOW yesterday banned the controversial Australian film, Romper
Stomper, which depicts the life of a neo-Nazi skinhead gang.
The decision was made after six members of Glasgow District Council's
licensing committee viewed the 90-minute film, which was due to be shown
tomorrow at the Glasgow Film Theatre.
A council official said the private viewing was arranged after the
council received several complaints that the film contained disturbing
scenes of violence.
Convener Baillie John Moynes said: ''We felt the film should be banned
because of the level of violence and use of knives, in accordance with
the council's backing of the Operation Blade campaign run by Strathclyde
police.''
The film is the first to be denied a certificate in Glasgow since the
Life of Brian in 1979. The film distributor withdrew it after the
council insisted the 15 certificate should be raised to 18.
Three years ago the licensing committee reaffirmed a long-standing ban
on The Devils, which the GFT unsuccessfuly applied to show in the early
70s. Ironically, The Devils is now available on video in the city.
One film enthusiast said: ''This surely calls into question the
effectiveness of the cinema ban.''
Romper Stomper, awarded an 18 certificate, received its Scottish
premiere at last year's Edinburgh Festival.
Mr Ken Ingles, GFT director, said: ''This is a very serious film about
disaffected youth in Australia. It is sad that the adult citizens of
Glasgow will be denied an opportunity to make up their own minds.''
Mr Ingles believed the decision undermined Glasgow's reputation as a
former European City of Culture.
The council official could not confirm whether complaints were
received from the Anti- Nazi League although it is known the film was
withdrawn from one London cinema after objections from the ANL. Hordes
of skinheads who watched the film are said to have applauded and cheered
the violent action scenes.
The ANL had planned to distribute leaflets condemning the film outside
the GFT.
William RussellWeekender
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