British Board Of Film Classification

British Board of Film Classification

The British Board Of Film Classification is an independent non governmental body. It has been classifying cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and video recordings in 1984. However the BBFC doesnt just come up with these guidelines they use extensive consultation and research from the public, they also take the UK laws and legislations into account. The guidlines are reviewed every 4 years.


There are 4 main areas which are considered:
- Nudity/Sex
- Violence/Imitable behaviour
- Discrimination
- Language





12/12A - These categories are awarded to those who are aged 12 and over. The 12A classification is for cinema only and so they can only see 12A films when accompanied by an adult. For a 12 rating no one under the age of 12 may buy or rent a 12 rated video.
Aggressive discrimination is unlikely to be seen in a 12/12A rated film. Dangerous behaviour (for example suicide) should not be allowed in detail which could be copied by a younger audience. The use of weapons should not be shown inappropriately. Sexual violence should only be implied and not shown in detail. Moderate language is allowed, repeated strong language in a film will be classified as a higher rating. Nudity and sex is allowed, but must be brief and discretely shown.







15 - This category is for those 15 and older. People under the age of 15 cannot watch a 15 rated film in the cinema, or rent a 15 rated DVD/video. 
Discrimination should not be seen on 15 rated films. There should not be detailed scenes of imitable, dangerous behaviour which can be copied by the young audience. There may be frequent use of strong language in 15 rated films, but the strongest terms should not be frequently repeated throughout the film. Nudity is allowed, but in sexual terms it should not be strongly detailed, however there are no limits on nudity in a non sexual or educational context. Sexual activity may be shown but without strong detail, and some strong verbal references to sexual behaviour may be shown. Violence may be strong, but should not focus on the pain or injury, and there may be references to sexual violence, but if any physical sexual violence occurs it should be discreet and have a strong contextual justification.