BBFC - Classifications

After deciding on what pitch we were going to do, we thought it would be a good idea to look into BBFC's classification, so we can put an appropriate classification on our project.

Universal - 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.’ A section taken from BBFC

Discrimination – No discriminating language/actions unless shown strongly disapproved of.

Drugs – There should be no illegal drug reference. Only in anti-drug promotional videos should this been shown, yet should still be suitable for young children.

Horror – Only short brief sequences of horror should be used, yet the outcome must be reassuring.

Imitable behaviour – No potential dangerous activity should be shown that could influence young children.

Language – No swearing, use of very mild bad language infrequently.

Nudity – Occasional natural nudity with no sexual content.

Sex – Mild sexual behaviour e.g. kisses, and mild references, e.g. making love.

Theme – The theme should be soft and suitable for children

Violence – Mild violence and threats used occasional only.

Parental Guidence - Suitable for all (Young children with adult)

‘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.’ A section taken from BBFC

Discrimination – Shown strongly disapproved of or in an educational context.

Drugs – Illegal drug reference should carry out an anti-drug message.

Horror – Only short brief sequences of horror should be used, yet the outcome must be reassuring.

Imitable behaviour – No potential dangerous activity should be shown that could influence young children.

Language – Very mild bad language infrequently.

Nudity – Occasional natural nudity with no sexual content.

Sex – Mild sexual activity can be implied discreetly.

Theme – When more serious issues are involved, Things should condone unacceptable behaviour.

Violence – Mild violence, without detail, that is justified by its content.

 12 - 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.’ A section taken from BBFC

Discrimination – Discriminatory language/actions/behaviour must not be endorsed by the work as a whole.

Drugs – Any use of illegal drugs must be used infrequently and not be brought up to glamorise it. No instructions of use of drugs should be given.

Horror – Physical and psychological threats are allowed, yet they must be infrequent and not sustained.

Imitable behaviour – Should appear pain/harm free. Easy accessible weapons must not be glamorized.

Language – Very mild bad language infrequently.

Nudity – Occasional natural nudity with brief and discreet sexual behaviour.

Sex – Mild sexual activity must be brief and discreet.

Theme – Mature themes are acceptable.

Violence – Mild violence, but not to be dwelled on detail. No emphasise on injuries/blood.  

12A - Must Be With An Adult 

‘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. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.’ A section taken from BBFC

The guidelines are exactly as the same as the ‘12’ classification guidelines.

15 - Suitable For 15 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.’ A section taken from BBFC

Discrimination – The work must not endorse discriminatory behaviour/langue as a whole.

Drugs – Any use of illegal drugs must not be promoted or encouraged.

Horror – Strong threats and menace allowed, unless is it sexualized or sadistic.

Imitable behaviour – Dangerous behaviour should not be dwelled upon. Easy accessible weapons must not be glamorized.

Language – There maybe frequent uses of strong language. The strongest language maybe used if justified by the context.

Nudity – Nudity is allowed with sexual behaviour with no strong detail.

Sex – Sexual content maybe portrayed with no strong attention to detail. Strong references may be used.

Theme – Anything as long is suitable for ages 15 and over.

Violence – Violence can be used, but must not dwell on injury or pain. Sexual violence must be discreet.

18 - Suitable For 18 And Over

‘In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC’s public consultations and The Human Rights Act 1998, at ‘18’ the BBFC’s guideline concerns will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment.’ A section taken from BBFC

R18 - Strictly Suitible For Only Adults In Specially Licenced Areas

‘The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. ‘R18’ video works may not be supplied by mail order.’ A section taken from BBFC