Managing explicit content

Films in the UK have to adhere to be classified by bbfc in order to be published and distributed to the public, cinemas, tv etc... Bbfc then categories these films into 6 different age ratings. This means viewers are only suitable to watch/purchase a film if they are above the age the film is labelled with. These age ratings are based of the content featured in the film, here are the age ratings and the reasons a film would be classed with them:

Suitable for all ages

Language

At U there will be avery strict regulations on the use of bad language. Only mild words such as 'damn' may be used infrequently.

Violence

Violence must be very mild and kept to a minimum. Any threat or deep emotion created through violence muse be quickly resolved. Moments of danger and fear must be balanced with reassurance and comical aspects.

Sexuality

The use of sexual behaviour is limited at kissing and cuddling in a  U. Very mild references to sex may be made, but they are unlikely to be approved.

Drugs

Drugs and drug abuse within a U rated film must be regulated and backed up with educational anti-drug messages. Mild references to drugs that children will not understand may sometimes be passed.

U-rated films must not encourage the involvement in any of these themes. If featured, these themes must be discouraged.

Suitable for ages 12 and above

Although films tickets can only be purchased by people 12 and above, if accompanied by an adult an under 12 can view a 12A film.

Language

Films may use strong language depending on the context. Featuring very few uses of strong language in a non-aggressive context is often reviewed and passed by the board.

Violence

A moderate use of violence is allowed but it must lack in detail. Emphasis on blood and injuries is not permitted unless it is justified and not distressing.

Sexuality

Similarly to U rated content, 12 rated films cannot feature sexual content, only low-key intimacy and limited suggestive content that must be approved by the bbfc.

Drugs

Slight features of drugs are acceptable within a 12 rated film so long as they do not glamorise or encourage the use of drugs.

Suitable for ages 15 and above

Language

Frequent use of strong language is permitted in a 15 rated film.

Violence

Strong violence is allowed but the focus must not be too heavily inflicted on the pain or suffering. Visual gore must also be limited.

Sexuality

Sexual nudity can be featured in 15 rated titles, but sex scenes must be kept tame. Sexual-violence is also not permitted but verbal violence can be featured.

Drugs

Drug use may be shown frequently but it cannot be encouraged.

Suitable for ages 18 and above

Language

There is no limit to how frequently strong language can be used.

Violence

Violence and gore can be portrayed in great detail.

Sexuality

Sex can be strong and detailed throughout, however, if the film features real sex it must be categorised as a 'sex work'.

Drugs

Drug use may be shown frequently but it cannot be encouraged.





Personally I will consider my short film a 15 rated title as it will feature frequent strong language and some violence. This is apparent with most crime thrillers for the same reasons. I will make sure not to breach the limits of a 15 title, as I would like to market this short film to ages of 15 and above.