Norwich Bulletin

Lifting Ban on Arbuckle,

In the case of Arbuckle there is and it is supposed has been something more than the reform of Arbuckle. Following the disgraceful disclosures that resulted from the trial in California it was evident that there was great need for the cleaning up of the movies. His case may have been only one but it was an important factor in bringing those in the motion picture business to a realization of the fact that something must be done, that a stop must be put to the harm that was being reflected upon the industry and that there was sufficient reason for a housecleaning that would restore confidence.

In view of such facts it is the most natural thing in the world that there should be resentment displayed throughout the country over the decision that permits Arbuckle to return to the picture business, and the endorsement given to those producers who are willing to put forth his pictures.

There can be no disposition to say that Arbuckle cannot work, or that he ought to be prevented from working since everyone is supposed to have a chance to earn his living, but it isn't a question of Arbuckle's working but of maintaining the housecleaning effort that was so well performed.

It isn't going to be possible to endorse the return of Arbuckle to the pictures, as has been done by Will Hays, as high censor of the movies in the employ of the motion picture industry, without that same resentment being displayed by the public that would have been felt a few months ago. It is going to revive the whole story which ought to be forgotten and with which the motion picture business ought not to consider that it could afford to be connected.

It is impossible to look upon the Hays decision as anything else than a mistake, and from the manner in which it is being received throughout the country the impression is gained that that is the way public opinion looks upon it. It is a move that will not increase the confidence in the plan of cleaning up the movies.