Film Classification

The BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) was established in 1912, and is a non-government organisation funded by the film industry which is responsible for the classification of films in the UK. They put age restrictions on films, DVD and video games so that children are not exposed to anything which could upset, disturb or have any negative impact on them.

A film which is classified a ‘15’ is not seen to be suitable for people under the age of 15 and therefore cannot buy or rent it. I can include drugs, but not to promote or encourage disuse. Life threatening behaviour such as suicide or self harm can be included but not in detail. Frequent strong language can be included, but stronger terms should relate to the context. Strong threat is acceptable in horrors as long as it isn’t sadistic or sexual. Nudity and sexual scenes are acceptable as long as they’re not shown in too much detail. They should not encourage discriminatory behaviour; and gore, strong violence and verbal abuse can be included as long as long as they are contextual.

An ‘18’ film cannot be brought or rented by anyone under the age of 18. The Human Rights Act 1998 means that as an adult you have the right to choose what you watch, although there are a few restrictions including the production of the film cannot have included any criminal acts or gone against any laws, or caused unnecessary harm to anyone. It cannot encourage audience to take part in criminal or immoral acts which would negatively impact or harm individuals or the society. Explicit sexual activity should relate to the context of the film.