What Is The British Movie Rating System? (BBFC Ratings History & Controversies)

Ever wondered how movies are classified before they hit your local cinema?

That’s where the BBFC ratings system comes into play.

We’ll jump into the British Board of Film Classification, a standard that dictates who can watch a film based on its content.

Understanding the BBFC ratings is crucial for filmmakers, parents, and viewers alike, ensuring everyone’s in for an appropriate and enjoyable experience.

Join us as we unravel the symbols and guidelines that shape our movie-watching adventures.

 

 

The Purpose Of The BBFC Ratings System

Protecting audiences is at the core of why the BBFC Ratings System exists.

It serves a critical role in advising viewers – especially parents – about the nature of a film’s content.

Age-appropriate viewing is essential in ensuring a safe and positive experience for all movie-goers.

The BBFC categorizes films with precision, so audiences know what to expect and can make informed decisions about what they watch.

Beyond guidance, the BBFC system aims to preserve artistic expression while balancing societal standards.

As film history and theory experts, we’ve seen how content themes can shape cultural consciousness.

The BBFC system allows creators to push boundaries and audiences to explore different perspectives, knowing there’s a framework in place to warn them of potentially sensitive material.

• Promoting creators’ freedom – enabling filmmakers to present their vision with clarity,
• Informing choice – providing detailed content descriptors alongside ratings,
• Reflecting current attitudes – the BBFC frequently reviews its guidelines to align with societal changes.

It’s fascinating how the BBFC Ratings System intertwines with film movements.

As we explore deeper into the evolution of cinema, it’s clear that the BBFC has adapted to the ever-changing landscape of film content and audience perception.

This living system has stood the test of time, evolving with each new wave of cinematographic expression from every corner of the world.

History And Background Of The BBFC Ratings System

The BBFC, originally established as the British Board of Film Censors, has a storied past that mirrors the changing tides in society and the film industry.

Its inception dates back to 1912 when the burgeoning film industry demanded a standardized approach to classify films based on suitable audiences.

This regulatory body was a response to public concerns over the potential impact of film on viewers and set out to systematically categorize films to protect primarily young and sensitive audiences.

Early efforts by the BBFC centered on moral guidelines, seeking to censor content deemed inappropriate.

As the film medium grew, the BBFC’s methods and attitudes towards censorship evolved.

During the 1930s and 1940s, cinema saw significant changes – from the advent of ‘talkies’ to the rise of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

The BBFC adapted to these innovations, directing their focus towards content that might be imitated by children or that depicted particularly explicit scenes.

• The 1950s brought the ‘X’ certificate, restricting those under 16 from viewing certain films.
• In the 1970s, classifications were refined to include the ‘AA’ category which allowed those aged 14 and above admission.

The BBFC’s evolution continued in stride with technology and cultural shifts.

The introduction of the home video market in the 1980s presented new challenges.

The ‘Video Recordings Act’ of 1984 required the certification of videos, solidifying the BBFC’s role in the regulation of not just films, but also home entertainment.

This expansion reinforced the BBFC’s mission to guide and protect audiences across all platforms.

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Transformations in society during the late 20th and early 21st century prompted further reformation of the ratings system.

The public’s demand for increased transparency and contextual ratings resulted in a more nuanced approach reflective of the depth of film content as well as the maturity of its viewers.

The BBFC has consistently revealed a willingness to adapt and promote an informed viewing experience.

Through censorship to classification and audience protection, the BBFC’s role has been dynamic and responsive.

As film theory and movements evolve, so too does the Board, indicating a symbiotic relationship with the film industry and its patrons.

With the digital age in full swing, the BBFC faces new terrain, yet remains an intrinsic part of the UK’s film culture and consumption.

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How The BBFC Ratings System Works

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) rates films and other visual content based on a set of criteria designed to inform the public about the nature of the material.

Of course, the ratings are not just about age restrictions; they’re also about helping parents decide what’s appropriate for their children to watch.

The BBFC looks at issues such as discrimination, drugs, horror, sex, and violence to determine the appropriate classification.

Each film submitted for classification undergoes a thorough examination by BBFC examiners.

These individuals assess the content according to guidelines that are periodically reviewed and updated with public consultation.

Distinctions are made between content suited for a straightforward advisory category and content that requires a mandatory restriction based on potential harm or impact on younger audiences.

The BBFC ratings are:

• U – Universal, suitable for audiences aged 4 and over,
• PG – Parental Guidance, some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children,
• 12A – Cinema release suitable for 12 years and over, but younger children can attend with an adult,
• 12 – Video release suitable only for 12 years and over,
• 15 – Suitable only for 15 years and over,
• 18 – Suitable only for adults.

In some cases, a film may receive an R18 classification, which is restricted to specially licensed cinemas and for sexually explicit material.

As digital platforms evolve, the BBFC continually adapts its classification processes.

With the rise of streaming services, they’ve expanded their reach by working closely with online content providers.

This collaboration ensures that the classification system maintains its relevance in the ever-changing landscape of film and digital media.

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The Current British Film Certificates

Let’s look at the current British Film Certificates:

Uc BBFC Rating

The Uc BBFC rating is an official age rating category assigned to films by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) in the United Kingdom. 

It was introduced in 1999 to provide a uniform rating system for all films that are released in the UK. Before this, only films rated by the BBFC could be released on video. 

The new scheme allowed films that had not been classified by the BBFC to get a Uc rating, which means “Universal” or “unclassified”. 

The Uc rating is given when a film has not been submitted for a rating by its distributor, for example because it contains no explicit sex or violence.

U BBFC Rating

The BBFC U rating is intended for everyone ages 3 years old and above. This means that all content within this category is suitable for universal viewing by any member of the public.

PG BBFC Rating

PG – Parental Guidance Suggested – The film or programme may contain mild bad language or references to sex or drug use; however there are no detailed descriptions of these things that would scare young children.

12 BBFC Rating

Films with a 12 rating may have some mild violence, sex or drug use and will be suitable for young teenagers.

12A BBFC Rating

12A films are suitable for children aged 12 and over, but not younger. To watch a 12A film, you must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

15 BBFC Rating

15 is a rating given to films that are considered to be unsuitable for viewing by persons below the age of 15 years. 

The 15 certificate is used for moderate horror, drug use, bad language, violence, and sex references.

18 BBFC Rating

This is the rating given to a film that contains material unsuitable for viewing by people under the age of 18. 

These films may contain one or more of the following:

• Sexually explicit, crude, or abusive language,
• Violence and/or horror,
• Drug misuse, smoking, and drinking

R18 BBFC Rating

This is a rating specifically designed for pornographic material that can only be sold in licensed sex shops.

History Of British Film Certificates

Classifications currently in use are Uc, U, PG, 12, 12A, 15, 18 and R18, but quite a few more have been featured on film posters throughout the last century. In chronological order, this is a complete list of official BBFC classifications:

U (1912-present) – This stood for ‘Universal’ and denoted that a film was suitable for everyone.

A (1912-1982) – This stood for ‘Adult’, and denoted that the film might contain material unsuitable for children. From 1923 to 1970 children were required to be accompanied by adults. The A certificate was replaced by the PG certificate in 1982.

H (1932-1951) – This stood for ‘Horror’, and was largely restricted to that genre. It was advisory, but many local authorities used it as an excuse to ban children under sixteen. It was replaced by the X certificate in 1951.

X (1951-1982) – This was the first BBFC certificate that explicitly excluded people under a certain age limit, in this case sixteen. The limit was raised to eighteen in 1970, and the X certificate was replaced by the 18 certificate in 1982.

AA (1970-1982) – This excluded people under the age of fourteen. It was replaced by the 15 certificate in 1982.

PG (1982-present) – Replacing the old A certificate, this stood for ‘Parental Guidance’. Although anyone could be admitted, PG certificate films contained an implicit warning that the film might contain material unsuitable for children.

15 (1982-present) – This replaced the old AA certificate, raising the age limit to 15 in the process.

18 (1982-present) – This replaced the old X certificate, barring people under eighteen.

R18 (1982-present) – This classification was exclusively intended for videos that could only be sold in licensed sex shops.

Uc (1985-present) – This denotes video releases deemed particularly suitable for pre-school children.

12 (1989-present) – Introduced for cinema films in 1989 and video releases in 1994, this covers films that, while containing material deemed unsuitable for children, were nonetheless considered appropriate for 12-year-olds and upwards.

12A (2002-present) – Introduced for cinema films, this replaced the theatrical 12 certificate and permitted children under twelve to see the films provided they were accompanied by a responsible adult.

What Is Classification By The BBFC?

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent, private, not-for-profit body whose primary responsibility is to classify films and videos under the Video Recordings Act 1984.

The BBFC was established in 1912 by film companies who wanted to introduce uniformity into the industry.

It was set up in response to public concern about sex, violence and horror in films.

The BBFC has always been a voluntary system of self regulation that has relied upon the support of government, producers, distributors and retailers throughout its history.

The majority of cinemas have always chosen to admit only those films which have been passed by the BBFC.

The BBFC’s aim is to help protect children from inappropriate material, but it also considers issues such as potential harm or offence caused by:

• sex,
• violence,
• bad language,
• discrimination,
• encouragement of drug misuse, and
• discrimination against any section of society.

The BBFC Classification Process

The BBFC classifies all content released in UK cinemas, DVDs, Blu-rays, and video on demand services.

The Board also helps to classify content for the cinema release in Northern Ireland, as well as for DVD/Blu-ray release in both countries.

When a studio wants to release a film in cinemas or on DVD/Blu-ray, they send a copy of the film to the BBFC along with information about its content and how it should be classified. 

The BBFC watches the film and decides whether it’s suitable for children of different ages and gives it an age rating (PG, 12A, etc.).

The BBFC then works with the filmmakers to make sure they understand the decisions and advice if necessary. 

Once they’ve reached agreement on the final cut of the film and its rating, they then decide whether any changes need to be made before it is released into cinemas or onto DVD/Blu-ray in the UK. This process is known as ‘cuts’ or ‘cuts advice’.

BBFC Controversies Over The Years

The BBFC has been controversial since its inception. The main issue has always been the use of censorship to control what people can and cannot see. 

There have been times when this has been a necessary evil, such as during World War II when Britain was under attack from Nazi Germany.

In more recent years, however, the BBFC has started to become more lenient with its censorship policy. 

This has led to some controversy in itself. Here are some of the most controversial moments in the history of BBFC censoring.

The Horror Years

In 1936, the BBFC passed The Bride of Frankenstein uncut at U certificate (suitable for children). It also passed Dracula (1931) uncut at U certificate. 

It was only in 1938 that they decided to ban horror films altogether due to their concerns over their effects on children’s minds. 

This ban lasted until 1954 when they passed Dracula (1958) at AA (suitable only for adults). The first horror film they passed after this was The Curse Of Frankenstein (1957) at A level (suitable only for adults). 

They got back into horror films in 1965 with the release of Hammer’s Curse Of The Werewolf, which was given an X certificate

Over the years, the organization has been criticized for its approach to certain films, with censors often coming under fire for their decisions on what is suitable viewing for audiences.

Here are some of the most controversial cases:

• The Human Centipede (First Sequence) (2009) – 18 certificate
• The Human Centipede II (2011) – 18 certificate
• I Spit On Your Grave 2 (2013) – passed uncut at 18

In its early years it was criticized for being too conservative and refusing to allow films like Battleship Potemkin, The Battleship Potemkin, which contained scenes of rioting, to be shown in Britain.

In 1981 the BBFC caused controversy by issuing a certificate for The Evil Dead (1981), which contained graphic violence including some scenes where characters are graphically dismembered with a chainsaw which weren’t included in the original version submitted for classification.

The following year Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) was released with one scene removed after it had already been screened at cinemas.

In 1999 the film version of South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut caused uproar when it was originally given an 18 certificate before being reduced to 15 on appeal by distributors Universal Pictures UK Ltd. 

It had a monopoly on film censorship until the 1980s when it began to lose some of this power after growing complaints about what some saw as overly harsh decisions over the years regarding certain films such as Freaks (1932) and Last House on the Left (1972).

BBFC Responsibilities and Powers

 The BBFC has two main responsibilities:

1. To classify films and video works, and decide what age rating they should receive.

2. To advise on any questions of taste and decency that may be raised by the public.

The BBFC also has certain powers to ensure compliance with the law, including:

1. The power to issue public warnings about potentially harmful content (for example, under-age sex or violence).

2. The power to require cuts for theatrical release or for video works in order to achieve a given classification category or age rating.

1. BBFC and Editing

Films are given a classification by examining the content of a film and giving it a rating that suits the audience. This can be anything from U (suitable for all ages) to 18 (not suitable for anyone under 18).

The BBFC uses the following guidelines when classifying films:

Sex and Nudity

There are no specific rules about sex or nudity in films, but if there is strong sex or nudity then we will usually advise that you cut these scenes before submitting your film for certification. 

The rule of thumb is whether a scene passes the ‘test’ – does it show something that would be acceptable on television? If so, then it probably should not be cut from your film. However, 

The BBFC does not expect any film to pass this test – it is there as guidance only.

Violence

There are no specific rules about violence in films, but if there is strong violence then we will usually advise that you cut these scenes before submitting your film for certification. 

Again, the rule of thumb is whether a scene passes the ‘test’ – does it show something that would be acceptable on television? If so, then it probably

2. BBFC and Cinema

The BBFC has a legal duty to classify every film shown in cinemas in Britain..

The BBFC’s main concerns are:

1. Whether the work is harmful to adults or children

2. Whether it contains potentially offensive language

3. Whether it contains sex and violence that might be unsuitable for children

The classification certificate issued by the BBFC is seen as a mark of quality by the public, so we work hard to ensure that our decisions are fair, consistent and transparent.

3. BBFC and Video releases

The BBFC are responsible for classifying videos and DVDs in the UK. 

As with cinema releases, they provide information about the different types of film classification, as well as guidance on how to get your own film or video classified.

4. BBFC and Video games

The BBFC is also the UK’s independent video game ratings body. They apply their published classification Guidelines to video games; we don’t classify them.

The BBFC is regulated by Ofcom under the Broadcasting Act 1996 and the Video Recordings Act 1984 – the same legislation that regulates television and radio broadcasts in the UK.

Video games have been rated by the BBFC since 1994. 

5. BBFC and Mobile operators

The UK’s BBFC has been working with mobile operators to help them develop age verification solutions that comply with the Digital Economy Act.

The BBFC has a role in helping mobile operators develop and implement age verification solutions for their customers. 

This is because the UK’s new Digital Economy Act requires ISPs and mobile operators to block access to pornographic websites that fail to use robust age verification.

The BBFC has issued guidance on how they can achieve this while ensuring that children are not denied access to legitimate sites.

The BBFC can only advise on technical solutions and cannot be held responsible or liable for any content or services provided by third parties, including mobile operators who choose to use our advice in their own systems.

6. BBFC and Websites

The BBFC is an independent body and they have no control over the content of websites.

However, they do work closely with a number of other bodies who share concerns about protecting children from inappropriate material online.

They strongly encourage any website that hosts adult content to use age verification so that people are not able to access it without first verifying their age.

This means that if you are under 18, you will be blocked from accessing the website in question.

BBFC Attitudes To Censorship

The BBFC’s main role is to issue age ratings that help parents make informed decisions about what their children can see at the cinema or on DVD/Blu-ray.

They also provide advice to adults about what they can watch.

Their work has led to significant changes in public attitudes towards censorship, as well as influenced international developments in film classification systems. 

The BBFC was instrumental in securing the first ever cinema censorship legislation in Britain – the Cinematograph Act 1909 – which introduced a system of licensing cinemas and regulating their content.

The BBFC will classify films that show images that are considered inappropriate for children and young people, including those that show:

• violence to human beings or animals,
• sexual violence,
• sexual activity involving non-consensual acts (including rape),
• injury or death caused by weapons (including guns, knives, and other sharp instruments),
• the infliction of pain or torture,
• drug misuse,
• scenes that might encourage an interest in illegal drugs and their effects,
• the use of tobacco products,
• graphic depictions of self-harm, and/or
• strong language.

Relaxation Of The BBFC

There has been considerable relaxation since 1999. The relaxation of guidelines has also made pornography widely available to adult audiences through the R18 rating.

There are also examples of films with stronger sexual content, some including real images of sexual intercourse, being approved at ’18’ level. 

Modern examples include the passing of Irreversible, 9 Songs, Antichrist, and numerous other films uncut for cinema and video viewing.

Despite this trend towards liberalization, anti-censorship campaigners are still critical of the BBFC. 

It has attracted criticism from conservative press, in particular the Daily Mail, on the grounds that the release of sexually explicit and violent films was corrupting the nation. 

The newspaper’s most famous clash with the BBFC came in 1997 when the board released the David Cronenberg film Crash without cuts.

The following day, the Daily Mail led with the banner headline “Censor’s Yes To Depraved Sex Film.”

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The Importance Of The BBFC Ratings System

The BBFC ratings system is a cornerstone of the UK’s film industry, affecting numerous aspects of a movie’s life cycle.

From production to the box office receipts, these classifications have a measurable impact on a film’s performance and accessibility.

They also serve as a tool for parents and guardians to judge what content is suitable for their children.

For filmmakers, understanding the nuances of this system is crucial.

Crafting a film with a specific audience in mind often means aiming for a particular rating.

This has a direct effect on –

• The content and themes explored in the film,
• The target demographic,
• Marketing strategies and distribution plans.

The system’s influence extends beyond the silver screen to the realm of home cinema and online streaming.

Films with a certain rating may find wider or more restricted audiences based on the platform’s policies and the preferences of viewers.

This symbiotic relationship between classification and consumption shapes the dialogue between creators and their audience, ensuring that the expectations set by the BBFC are met with the content produced.

Audience members rely on the ratings system to make informed choices about what films to watch.

The granular detail within the classifications provides viewers with a clear understanding of the content they will be encountering.

Whether they seek family-friendly entertainment or more mature themes, the BBFC ratings guide them towards appropriate selections.

By having this framework, we can all appreciate that the BBFC ratings system is more than just regulatory markers; it’s a cultural barometer and an essential part of the UK’s cinematic landscape.

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What Is The Bbfc Ratings System – Wrap Up

We’ve seen how the BBFC ratings system shapes the UK’s film industry and assists consumers in making viewing choices.

It’s an indispensable guide for parents and a crucial consideration for filmmakers aiming to reach their desired audience.

With its impact on marketing and distribution, the BBFC ratings not only reflect content suitability but also influence a film’s journey to the screen.

As we navigate the cinematic world, these ratings will continue to serve as our compass, ensuring that we’re well-informed about the movies we choose to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The BBFC Ratings System?

The BBFC ratings system is a classification scheme in the UK assigning age-appropriate ratings for films, from U (Universal) for all audiences to 18 for adults only.

Why Are BBFC Ratings Important For Filmmakers?

BBFC ratings are crucial for filmmakers as they influence a film’s marketing, distribution, and audience targeting, ensuring the content is suitable for the intended viewers.

How Do BBFC Ratings Affect Parents And Guardians?

BBFC ratings serve as a guide for parents and guardians to determine the suitability of a film’s content for their children, aiding in making informed viewing choices.

What Impact Do BBFC Ratings Have On Film Performance?

BBFC ratings can significantly affect a film’s performance by defining audience reach and accessibility, which in turn impacts box office success and distribution options.

Can BBFC Ratings Influence Viewer Choices?

Yes, viewers rely on BBFC ratings to make informed decisions about what films to watch, helping them understand the type of content set before engaging with a movie.

What Is The BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) Ratings System?

The ratings are designed to give parents an idea of whether a film or video game is suitable for children of different ages.

The BBFC also provides advice for parents about how to respond to content that may be unsuitable for younger children.

 

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