British Board of Film Classification
The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, non governmental body. It was set up by the film industry in 1912 and classifies films on behalf of local authorities, which are the legally responsible bodies. Local Authorities may overrule any of the Board’s decisions and can pass films which the Board rejects, or reject films which the Board has classified. The Board is the designated body under the Video Recordings Act 1984 for the classification of videos, DVDs and games not excluded by the Act. Video distributors who are unhappy with any classification decision can appeal to the Video Appeals Committee.
The Board classifies films and videos according to published Guidelines which have been drawn up after extensive public consultation. If a distributor wants a particular category for a film or video and the film does not fit within the Guidelines for that category the Board will suggest cuts, but the decision to cut a film lies with the distributor. If the distributor is not prepared to make cuts, then the higher classification stands. Where cuts are required to ‘18’ or ’R18’ works which the distributor is not prepared to make, the Board can refuse to issue a certificate. The Board’s website carries details of any cuts made to a film or video and the reasons for the cuts.
The film and video categories are:
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Parental Guidance: General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for some children.
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Universal: Suitable for all
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(Video) No-one younger than 12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video. |
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(Cinema) No-one younger than 12 can see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult. |
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Suitable only for adults. |
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Suitable only for 15 years and over |
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To be supplied only in licensed sex shops to adults of not less than 18 years. |
The ‘15’ and ‘18’ categories are subject to age restrictions in cinemas and the ‘12’, ‘15’ and ‘18’ categories are subject to age restrictions at video shops. There is an additional video classification category.
Many thanks to SUE CLARK for compiling this information.
Website: www.bbfc.co.uk
E-mail: sclark@bbfc.co.uk
