Classification and restrictions. . .

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)

I am carrying out this research in order to distinguish my target audience and provide a suitable certificate for my media advertisement campaign. This allows me to develop a greater knowledge and understanding in what we can include and exclude from our teaser trailer.

The company was first established in 1912 and still remains strong to present day. The BBFC can be described as “A highly expert and experienced regulator of the moving image (especially film, video/DVD and video games), and also a service provider for new and developing media.”

The BBFC provides the competent classification of moving images into age and advisory related categories. So therefore, the companies’ main focus is to provide the public with information of whether or not moving image content is appropriate for viewing. They illustrate the significants of protecting those who are vulnerable within society, e.g. young children from unsuitable content such as blood and violence. They also have an influence on the inadvertent breaches of UK law and maintain to provide media industries with security and confidence publicity trusted.

One issue that the company has acknowledged is the change in culture diversity. With this, they have not chosen to simply ignore it but instead embrace change and meet requirements accordingly. A key example of this is the newly developed 12A, allowing the viewing of certain movies for those under 12 as long as accompanied by an adult. Whereas, before if you were not twelve, then you could not view it.

One of the key ambitions of the company is to

• Respond to changing social attitudes

This demonstrates that the company will continue to change and develop and will last meet the needs and expectations of society and be a continuingly trusted company.

List of certifications. . .

U – Suitable for all, more specifically those four and older.

PG – Parental Guidance, here most of the moving image is suitable for children but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.

12A – A cinema certification whereby, viewing is promoted to those over the age of twelve unless accompanied by an adult. It is still not recommended that those under twelve watch the moving image but leaves the decision up to the accompanying adult.

12 – Only suitable for those older then the age of twelve. This is because it contains material that may cause distress to someone younger or what parent may perceive as unsuitable.

15 – Suitable only for those fifteen years and older. In this classification close attention should be paid to the content of; discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behaviour, language, nudity, sex and violence.

Are primary concerns;

·         Horror – Although tough peril and threat is allowed we can not relate these to any forms of sadistic or sexualised behaviour.

·         Imitable behaviour – If we included any form of dangerous behaviour, it should be shown in no great detail. For example, if self harming is shown, do not glamorise the weapon and only show briefly.  

·         Language – Strong language is acceptable but the continuous use of the strongest words will be questioned. Attempt to justify use.  

·         Nudity – Nudity is permitted but not in strong detail.

·         Drugs – Taking of drugs is permitted but in no way should they be encouraged in misuse. The misuse of easily accessible dangerous substances such as aerosols is not acceptable.

·         Violence – This can be strong but not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. Any reference of sexual violence must be discreet and be clearly justified.

18 – Suitable only for adults.

R18 – Only shown in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in a licensed sex shop and to adults not less then eighteen years. Usually associated with strong fetish and sex of adults.

www.bbfc.co.uk