The Wayne Manifesto

As a parent living in Australia today in the new millenium, it is so refreshing to encounter a show which we can comfortably allow our children to watch with only minimal supervision. The show, aimed at a family audience, while it does contain some mature themes (the Wayne character's familiarity with the nextdoor neighbour Rosie is something which I think is inappropriate for a younger audience) it also features many situations which todays young teen will encounter in day to day Australia. Wayne gets up to such hi-jinks as not doing his homework, coming late to class and failing to study for a test. Normally, I wouldn't allow my children to watch such things, but this show demonstrates the consequences of such feckless behaviour. Perhaps it will scare some negligent parents' children straight.

There are also positive examples to look to. The Rupert character is one, for example, whom any mother would be delighted to invite around to dinner - although one would like to steer clear of some of his oafish, load-mouthed mates.

It is therefore clear that the appropriate age group for viewing this show should be that of such characters as Rupert - late teens, perhaps 17 or 18. In Wayne's libido, although at times horrifyingly frankly discussed, many youths would see a parallel to their own problems with growing up. Take note, however: any younger than 17, and these risque messages would be lost, and the show would no doubt have an unintentional corrupting effect on innocent young minds. You have been warned. Please, please be discriminating.