BBFC- How are films certificated?

How are films certified?

Films prior to their theatrical release are classified by two BBFC examiners using guidelines. To protect children from unsuitable and harmful content in films and videos and to give consumers information they might need about a particular film or video before deciding whether or not to view it.

The BBFC examines and age rates films and videos before they are released. After that a senior examiner will confirm the recommendation if it fails then the film or video is viewed by other members of the board until a decision is made.

Every 4-5 years the BBFC carries out a big public consultations to get a view of what the public thinks of the age rating of films. They also decide if the BBFC’s classifications standards are met. The BBFC change its standards and criteria in response to the public.

They follow these key principles in particular.

There are two key principles, laid out in the Guidelines:

·         To protect children and vulnerable adults from potentially harmful or otherwise unsuitable content

·         To empower consumers, particularly parents and those with responsibility for children, to make informed viewing decisions