BBFC guidelines and age classification

There are many general factors that can influence the age classification of a film. These factors are the things that that decide the particular age rating of a film.


context-
the context of a film is very important when deciding on an age classification. Things such as sex, language and violence are an issue if they are presented in the film. when deciding on the age classification it is also important that they review the manor of the behaviour that is being shown. For example if this behaviour is shown in a violent or aggressive way then the rating will be higher than if the behaviour is used in a more light hearted way as this may be seen as less offensive.


discrimination-
any content that can be seen as offensive in any way relating to race, gender, religion or sexuality must be reviewed and the age classification will depend on the strength or impact of the behaviour. If however the discrimination is being used to challenge the view rather than offend then the rating is more than likely to be lower.


drugs-
films following the guidelines of the BBFC are not permitted to show the misuse of drugs and any films that do may be cut. films that do normalise drugs may be given a higher classification than those who show drug use but also the dangers that are involved.


imitable behaviour-
classification of those films that contain imitable behaviour depends on how extreme the behaviour is. For example films that show anti social behaviour/bullying and involve objects such as weapons and knives are more likely to receive a higher classification. other films that try to promote illegal behaviour are more likely to be refused a classification and cut completely.


language-
within a film there is no set list of language that falls into each classification. the classification on language is based on how rude or offensive views may find the content. for example some people may find that sexual, religious or racial language may be very offensive as they are commonly seen as rude gestures. however due to this being based on personal guideline it is very hard to come up with a set age classification so most of these are just advised age restrictions.


nudity-
if nudity is shown In a film with no sexual content is acceptable to be shown at all age classification levels however it is not often shown in films that are rated 'U'. The films that show nudity as part of a sexual content will receive a much higher classification and will not be rated anything under '18'.


sex-
sexual activity in a film and can be anything from kissing to detailed sexual actions. it is becoming concerning to the BBFC that overly sexualised activities are becoming too normal for the younger categories. the way the classification works is that the older the age restriction the more sexual activity they are allowed to show. films who have a primary purpose of showing sexual scenes will only be shown to the adult categories that are 18 and over. films that are 'R18' rates may also only be shown at licensed cinemas.