Film Industry: BBFC Regulation

What is the BBFC responsible for? How is it funded? How does it link to the government?

•  The BBFC is responsible for grading films with an age certificate that allows people to choose media which is appropriate for them and to avoid potentially harmful media texts. It links to the government through its alliance and enforcement of laws such as the Video recording act. It is a not for profit organisation, funded by charged fees.

Summarise how films are rated by the BBFC

•  the BBFC have a board of people who watch a film prior to it's release and take account of the density and inclusion of sex, violence, blood etc. to formulate an appropriate and accurate age rating. Local people in power can finalise decisions on distribution however they usually work along the guidelines presented by the bbfc. The BBFC revisits their guidelines every 4 years to adapt and fit into a dynamic system.

Summarise the debate of classifying films 

•  People argue that the BBFC's classification is limiting the artistic freedom of film makers whereas others argue that regulation is necessary for a growing density in media consumption, and by limiting the exposure to inappropriate content it prevents the risk of densistisation. The debate also refers to the limiting and arguably biased take on classifying films, whereas some people applaud the efforts of the bbfc for trying to stay relevant to changing times. 

Why did The Dark Knight generate a large amount of media coverage regarding its certificate? Do you agree with the 12A certificate that it was awarded?

•  It had heavy fantasy violence, the joker's gruesome and horrifyingly realistically disfigured appearance as well as some of the harsh and heavy dialogue called for a higher and more limiting age rating such as a 15. I believe that it should have had a 15 certification due to the content and heavy themes that should call for a more restricted distribution. 

What are the guidelines for a 15 certificate?

•  A 15 movie would include Dangerous behaviour, discrimination, drugs, strong language, nudity, sex including sexual violence or threat, violence, and threat and horror 

Explain why Chicken was given a 15 certificate

• Chicken was given a 15 certificate due to the extremely strong language, violence and references to sex throughout.