BBFC ( British Board of Film Classification )

What is it? 

• The BBFC is a independent non governmental body funded through the fees it charges to those who submit films and video works for classification.  
• 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 )
• Classification guidelines reflect all these considerations and are a product of public consultations with children and adults. 

Human rights act 1998

• This act aimed at the right for private and family life, and the right to freedom of expression.
• This act permits restrictions on freedom of expression as prescribed by the law and are necessary in a democratic society. 

The licensing of act 2003

• Cinemas require a license from the local authority in which they operate. The objectives of the licensing act are: 
• The prevention of crime and disorder
• public safety
• the prevention of public nuisance 
• the protection of the children from harm

The video recordings act 1984 

• video works must be classified by the bbfc unless they fall within the definition of exempted work.
• When considering whether to award a classification certificate to a work, or to whether to classify a work at a particular category in the manner in which the work deals with such as:

1. Criminal behavior 
2. illegal drugs
3. violent behavior or incidents
4. horrific behavior or incidents 
5. human sexual activity

U\universal suitable for all

No discrimination language or behavior unless clearly disapproved of. 

No references to illegal drugs or drug misuse 

Scary consequences are mild/brief. No dangerous behavior 

Infrequent use only of very wild bad language occasions natural nudity. 

PG\Parental guidance 

Discriminatory language or behavior is unlikely references to illegal drugs\drug misuse is frightening sequences should not be prolonged. 

Natural nudity, sexual activity may be implied, moderate violence.

12A\12 -  discriminatory language or behavior must not be endorsed, any misuse of drugs must be infrequent. Moderate language allowed and nudity is allowed. 

15 -  drug taking may be shown but film must not promote or encourage drugs or sexual activity. 

18 -  in line with the consistent findings of the bbfc's public consultations and 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.