BBFC - British Board of Film Classification

British Board of Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent, non-governmental body funded through the fees it charges to those who submit films and video works for classification. Here, and throughout the Guidelines, video works are taken to include video games, and films and programmes released on DVD or Blu-ray, or distributed by means of download or streaming on the internet. The BBFC classifies films on behalf of the local authorities who license cinemas under the Licensing Act 2003. The BBFC classifies video works which are released as video recordings under the Video Recordings Act 1984. (The video games covered by the VRA are those whose exemption is forfeited under section 2(2) because they depict human sexual activity, gross violence or other matters of concern.) The BBFC classifies video works which are distributed other than as a video recording (for example, by means of download or streaming over the internet) under a voluntary scheme called BBFC.online. The BBFC will not classify material which it believes to be in breach of the criminal law. Where possible the BBFC will carry out its responsibilities through appropriate use of the classification categories, particularly in order to protect children from any harm which may be caused. If necessary, however, the BBFC may cut or even reject a film or video work. In line with domestic administrative law principles and the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1998, there is a particular need to make the classification criteria clear. This is fulfilled by the publication of these Guidelines and their availability on the BBFC website or directly from the BBFC. (Contact details can be found on the back cover.) The BBFC Classification Guidelines reflect all these considerations and are the product of public consultation with children and adults, research and the accumulated experience of the BBFC over many years. The Guidelines, and the BBFC’s practice in applying them, have particular regard to any changes in public taste, attitudes and concerns; changes in the law; or new evidence from research or expert sources; and will be reviewed periodically. The Guidelines, however, are not a legal document and should be interpreted in the spirit of what is intended as well as in the letter. They cannot be a comprehensive account of everything that may at any time be of concern. Should issues arise which are not specifically covered here, they will be dealt with by the BBFC on their merits and in line with the standards expressed and implied in these Guidelines. Responsibility for the Guidelines and for their interpretation rests with the BBFC and is subject to normal considerations of fairness and reasonableness. The BBFC undertakes to provide guidance on the interpretation of these Guidelines on request. Before allowing a child to view a work, parents are advised to consider carefully the classification, together with any accompanying Consumer Advice.

U - Universal

Suitable for all. It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a 'U' film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. 'U' films should be set within a positive moral framework  and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror. if a work is particularly suitable for a pre-school child to view alone, this will be indicated in the Consumer Advice.

PG - Parental Guidance

General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

12A/12

Suitable for 12 years and over. Exactly the same criteria are used to classify works at ‘12A’ and ‘12’. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them. The '12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult. The '12' category exists only for video works. No one younger than 12 may rent or buy a '12' rated video work. 

15

Suitable only for 15 years and over. No one younger than 15 may see '15' film in a cinema. No one younger than 15 may rent or buy a '15' rated video work.

18

Suitable only for adults. No one younger than 18 may see an '18' film in a cinema. No one younger than 18 may rent or buy an '18' rated video. In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC's public consultations and The Human Rights Act 1988, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment.

R18 - Restricted

To be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults of not less than 18 years. The 'R18' category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. 'R18' video works may not be supplied by mail order.