The BFC

What is the BBFC?                            

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent, non government body which has exercised responsibilities over cinema for more than 90 years.

Suitable for all.

It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

For example these films could be Disney films such as Toy Story 3, Cinderella, The Lion King etc.

Parental guidance.

General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.

Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

For example these films would be the Home Alone sequel.

Suitable for 12 years and over.

Exactly the same criteria are used to classify works at ‘12A’ and ‘12’. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them.

The ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. Responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

An example of a 12/12a film would be 17 Again.

 Suitable for 15 years and over.

No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

An example of a certificate 15 film is Changeling.

No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video work. Suitable for adults.

An example of a certificate 18 film would be The Godfather.

GUIDELINES.

12A/12. Suitable for 12 years and over.

THEME – Mature themes are acceptable, but their treatment must be suitable for young teenagers.

LANGUAGE – Moderate language is allowed.

NUDITY – Nudity is allowed, but if in a sexual context must be brief and discreet.

SEX – Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed.

VIOLENCE – Moderate violence is allowed, but should not dwell on detail.

IMITABLE TECHNIQUES – Dangerous behaviour should not dwell on detail that can be copied or appear pain or harm free.

HORROR – Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted.

DRUGS – Any misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be glamourised or give instructional detail.

15. Suitable for 15 years and over.

THEME – NO theme is prohibited provided that treatment is suitable for 15 year olds.

LANGUAGE – There may be frewuent use of strong language.

NUDITY – Nudity may be allowed in sexual context but without strong detail.

SEX – Sexual activities may be portrayed but without strong detail.

VIOLENCE – Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury.

IMITABLE TECHNIQUES – Dangerous behaviour should not dwell on detail that may be copied.

HORROR – Strong threats and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised.

DRUGS – Drug taking may be shown but should not promote or encourage it.