BBFC RESEARCH
The whole point of the BBFC research was for us to understand the guidelines for our target audience, to make sure all of the production was suitable and relevant to the,.
The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, non-governmental body which has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and videos/ DVDs since the Video Recordings Act was passed in 1984.
The BBFC is a trusted guide to media content. Working as an independent, self-financing and not-for-profit media content regulator, the BBFC operates classification and labelling systems for films and tv shows in the UK.
As a highly expert and experienced regulator, their mission is to:
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protect the public, and especially children, from content which might raise harm risks
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empower the public, especially parents, to make informed viewing choices
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recognise and respect adult freedom of choice within the law
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respond to and reflect changing social attitudes towards media content through proactive public consultation and research
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provide a cost-effective, efficient classification service within our statutory remit
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work in partnership with the industry to develop innovative service models to provide content advice which support emerging media delivery systems
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provide an effective service to enforcement agencies
This is an example of a new release that the bbfc has classified for UK viewers. They have classifed it as a 12A, as it has moderate violence, sex amd infrequent strong language
FILM RATINGS
Suitable for all
Parental Guidance
Cinema release suitbale for 12 years & over
Video release suitable for 12 years & over
Suitable for only 15 years & over
Suitable for only 18 years & over
Adult works for licensed premises only
U Rated Film
PG Rated Film
12A Rated Cinema Release
12 Rated Film
15 Rated Film
18 Rated Film
By Skye Smith
U is known worldwide to stand for universal. This means that the film is suitable for everybody even children above 4 years of age. Universal films avoide using any sexual content, drugs, violence, bad language etc.
Dvds only sold is the child looks above the age of 12. In a 12 film there can be stronger language, more violent scenes but not too violent as it has to be suitable for young teens. Also drug usage is allowed but the way of using drugs and what type of drugs there are shouldn’t be detailed and taking drugs shouldn’t be glamourised.
This symbol means that the parent should be careful with allowing their child watching this film as it may have scenes unsuitable to the younger audience especially uf the child is more sensitive.
PG shouldnt upset children above the age of 8. PG may have a mild use of violence, racism etc.
This certificate rate is only suitable for people aged 15 and over.
Films that are rated this certificate can contain adult themes, hard drugs, regular use of foul language and limited use of very strong language and some sexual content but nt in detail.
The difference with 12A from 12 is that 12A require an adult to be by the childs side while watching the movie but it has the same effects and techniques used as a normal 12.
This certificate rate is only suitable for people over the age of 18, which means adults only. Films that are rated 18 do not have any limitations over the strong language contained, also strong sexual content and gory and intense violence etc.
The R in R18 stands for 'Restricted'. These films are very sex orientated. They are legally-restricted due to thefact that they're very explicit. They should only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas and films can only be sold to adults in licensed sex shops.
By Lolita Lind