The BBFC

1) Research the BBFC in more detail: what is the institution responsible for? How is it funded? What link does it have to government?

The British Board of Film Classification is a non-governmental organization, founded by the film industry in 1912 and responsible for the national classification and censorship of films exhibited at cinemas.

 2) Read this BBFC guide to how films are rated. Summarise the process in 50 words.
Anyone who wants to release a film, video or DVD for showing in cinemas or watching at home has to make sure that it has a BBFC age rating. It's against the law to sell videos and DVDs without this.The Compliance Officers' daily viewing programme consists of a combination of film and DVD material. These compliance officers watch the uploaded films, DVD's or TV shows where they are viewed in the BBFC theatre room so that the experience is that of those in the cinema.

 3) Read this BBFC outline of the issues faced when classifying a film. Summarise the debate in 50 words.

4) Read this BBFC section on controversial decisions. Why did The Dark Knight generate a large amount of media coverage regarding its certificate? Do you agree with the 12A certificate The Dark Knight was awarded?

The Dark Night received a lot of media attention, as some people, particularly parents had an issue with the amount of violence in the film.

5) What are the guidelines for a 15 certificate?

- The work as a whole must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour, although there may be racist, homophobic or other discriminatory themes and language.
- Drug taking may be shown but the work as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse.
- Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail which could be copied. Whether the depiction of easily accessible weapons is acceptable will depend on factors such as realism, context and setting.
- There may be strong language. Very strong language may be permitted, depending on the manner in which it is used, who is using the language, its frequency within the work as a whole and any special contextual justification.
- There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context. There may be nudity in a sexual context but usually without strong detail.
- Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury.
6) The BBFC website offers an explanation of every classification it makes and detailed case studies on selected titles. Look at the rating for Chicken and explain why it was given a 15 certificate.

There was use of strong language and violence along side references to rape.