Research into film classifications

I have conducted some research into film classifications and I have examined what makes each film under the specific classification. I have used the British Board Of Film Classifications to aid my research.


Classification U

This specific classification means that a film is suitable for audience over the age of four years old. ‘U’ films are always set with a positive moral framework and they offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror. Works which are suitable for pre-school children to view alone will have this indicated within the Customer Advice area. There is no use of discriminatory language or behaviour, no references to illegal drugs or drug misuse- unless there is an anti-drug message suitable for young children. There can be use of scary sequences however they should only be mild and brief with a reassuring outcome. There can be no potentially dangerous behaviour which young children are likely to copy, also violence shown in these works must be mild, only occasional mild threats. There can be infrequent use of very mild bad language, with occasional natural nudity with no sexual contact. There can be use of mild sexual behaviour- for example kissing, with references only to ‘making love’. The theme of the works must be both sensitive and appropriate for young children.

Classification PG

This classification means that a film can be used for general viewing of any age, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child over the age of eight years old. Parents are advised to consider whether the content of the work may upset younger or sensitive children. Discriminatory language and behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable in ‘PG’ works unless it is clearly disapproved of or in an educational or historical context. There can be references to illegal drugs or drug misuse, but they must carry a suitable anti-drug message. Use of horror must not be intensely frightening, there can be no use of potentially dangerous behaviour which children are likely to copy, and there must only be mild bad language. There can be use of natural nudity with no sexual context, sexual activity may be implied but it should be both discreet and infrequent as well as mild. There can be use of moderate violence without detail if it is justified by its context.
　
Classification 12/12A　

This classification means that films are suitable for audiences over the age of twelve years old. Works of this classification may upset children under the age of twelve or contain material which parents will find unsuitable for them. The classification ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one under the ages of twelve may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below twelve. The ‘12’ category exists only for video works. No one younger than twelve may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video work. Discriminatory language or behaviour is accepted mildly however, aggressive discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable unless clearly condemned. Any element of drug misuse must be infrequent, dangerous behaviour must appear pain and harm free however must not be dwelled on in detail. Moderate language is accepted, use of strong language must be infrequent. Nudity is allowed in a ‘12/12A‘, but in a sexual context must be brief and discreet. Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed, and sexual references must be appropriate for young teenagers. Moderate violence is acceptable but there should be no emphasis on blood and injuries.


Classification 15
This classification means that works should only be viewed by audiences over the ages of fifteen years old. The works must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour. Drugs taking can be shown in the work but must not promote or encourage it. There can be use of strong threats and menacing unless they are sadistic or sexualised. Dangerous behaviour should not dwell on detail would could potentially be copied. Strong language can be used frequently throughout the work, and nudity is allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. Sexual activity can be portrayed without strong detail, there can be sexual references in the work. Violence can be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury.
　
Classification 18
This classification means that works should not be viewed by anyone under the age of eighteen.
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. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
where the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence
where material or treatment appears to the BBFC to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – for example, any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual or sexualised violence which might, for example, eroticise or endorse sexual assault
where there are more explicit images of sexual activity which cannot be justified by context. Such images may be appropriate in ‘R18’ works, and in ‘sex works’ (see below) would normally be confined to that category.In the case of video works (including video games), which may be more accessible to younger viewers, intervention may be more frequent than for cinema films.
Sex material seeks to inform in matters such as sexuality, safe sex and health. Explicit images of sexual activity are accepted in this classification. Works can contain clear images of sexual activity.