The BBFC

The BBFC.

 

What do the BBFC do?

The BBFC (British Board of Film Censors) is a non-governmental independent organisation that reviews movies before they are released to establish a recommended age rating for them to be shown at. The BBFC was set up in 1912.

What powers do they have?

The BBFC have powers on:

·         Cinema

The BBFC may pass a film, however local councils may contradict their decisions. The councils can ban a film passed, pass one rejected or alter categories. The age restrictions placed by the BBFC however, are enforced at the office. For example, a twelve year old child cannot buy a ticket for a fifteen movie.

·         Video

The BBFC may alter the age restriction on a DVD as it is possible for the film to be paused, reversed and overall, controlled. Like tickets, you must be above the age recommendation to be able to buy it. However, within the household the age restriction can or cannot be enforced depending on the parenting or strictness within the house. Though majority of the time it is ignored.

·         Finances

The BBFC is a non-profit organisation and its fees only cover its costs. Its income comes from its services and its calculated by the running time of what is being assessed.

The BBFC can reject films, demand cuts or even prosecute companies.

The guidelines cover:

·         Context

·         Theme

·         Tone and impact

·         Discrimination

·         Drugs

·         Imitable behaviour

·         Language

·         Nudity

·         Sex

·         Threat

·         Violence