Research on Film Classification -Jennifer

Every film is given an age certificate, it is the British Board of Film Classifications (BBFC) to decide what film get a certain age certificate. This law has been put into place, and it is vital that all film producers follow these laws otherwise they get fined. So they run the film through testing,to see what age certificate it should be given.

The BBFC is an independent, non governmental body who classify cinema films, videos, Blu-rays and games. Their headquarters is located in London UK, and the president of the BBFC is Quentin Thomas.

The classification a film is given can depend on a variety of things, such as
- Sexual Content
- Violence
- Drug use
- Lanaguage
- Discrimination
- Sexual Violence

Depending on what is in the film, lies with what classification is given. Classifications include

- U
Stands for 'Universal', and can be viewed by any person. This film rating will include no discrimination or sexual reference. Mild language and mild violence can be used, as long as it is suitable for younger viewers.

- PG
This classification stands for 'Parental Guidance', meaning that any person may watch the film, but are advised to do so with a parent or an authorised adult. Films with given this certificate may include short frightening scenes that should not necessarily scare children. Also mild bad language, but nothing too extreme, some natural nudity with no sexual content, some innuendo and mild sexual references and moderate violence without detail. 

- 12 and 12 A
This means that any person aged 12 and over may view the movie, whilst a 12 A movie means that those under the age of 12 years may watch it under the supervision of an adult. Movies with this age certificate may include minor levels of discriminatory language, although this is unlikely, misuse of drugs if it is infrequent, moderate language . However, nudity is permitted but sexual content must be kept infrequent and not dwell too much in detail. To conclude moderate violence is permitted but again not in detail.

- 15
May be viewed by a person over the age of 15 or of the age of 15 and goes into more detail than a 12 rated film. Discrimination however must not be the general theme of the movie. Drug use may be shown but not promoted by the film. Easily accessible weapons must not be glamorised for example a kitchen knife.Frequent use of strong words are acceptable, but the strongest language is only acceptable in the correct contents and can not be overplayed.Nudity and sexual content is permitted but must not be shown in complete detail.Also violence can be strong, but shouldn't show any suffering or torment.

- 18
Can only be watched, bought or rented by someone over the age of 18. The usually include strong uses of discriminatory language, drug use is frequent and can be shown regularly in the film. Dangerous behaviour may be shown such as weapons and violence also the strongest of language may be used. Nudity and sexual scenes are acceptable, to conclude, violence may include suffering and torment and is frowned upon.

- R18
' Restricted 18' can only be shown to adults over the age of 18. Material such as encouraging an interest in sexual abusive activity which may include adults role playing as non-adults. Portrays any sexual activity which involves lack of consent. Any form of physical restraints which involves participants form indicating a withdrawal of consent. The implication of pain or acts which may cause lasting physical harm, whether real or simulated. Penetration of any object that shows violence of physical harm. Also any sexual content of physical abuse that doe not form part of a clearly consenting role playing game.