Film regulation and the BBFC - blog task

 

1) Research the BBFC in more detail: what is the institution responsible for? How is it funded? What link does it have to government? This history of the BBFC page may help. 

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is independent, non-governmental and not-for-profit, and has had the responsibility of classifying films since 1912, video tapes and discs since 1985, and more recently, online content. The BBFC is here to help everyone in the UK choose age-appropriate films, videos and websites, wherever and however they watch or use them.

Statutory powers over film remain with the local councils, which can overrule any of the BBFC’s decisions on appeal, passing films we reject, banning films we’ve passed, and even waiving cuts, making new ones, or altering the age ratings for films shown in their area. But generally, from as early as the mid-1920s, local authorities have accepted our decisions.

2) Read this BBFC guide to how films are rated. Summarise the process in 50 words.

The BBFC’s classifying decisions are reached by consensus, with the Chief Executive, the President and the two Vice-Presidents taking final responsibility. Compliance Officers usually watch films for cinema release in the BBFC's own cinema, so they can experience the effect With all the content they watch, they note details of the general theme or context – plot, characters and the outline of individual scenes – along with the timings of key moments, the type of shots and camera angles, bad language, drug references, sex and violence, and so on. Most recommendations are straightforward and are based on the published BBFC Classification Guidelines, which are regularly updated.

3) Read this BBFC section on landmark 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 BBFC's decision to award The Dark Knight the 12A rating resulted in much press coverage and complaints from members of the public, who thought the violence was too strong to be contained at that category. I believe that it was good to stay at an 12 rated as i believe that there is a lot of violence and darkness however due fan base it has children would of watched it regardless of the rating. i do think above 12 year olds are ok to watch it as they have left primary and hit a new responsibility which means that they are able to watch this and if they feel frightened they can have a parent watch is with them.

4) What are the guidelines for a 12A certificate - Blinded By The Light's cinema certificate (it was rated 12 for its home video release)?   

- Theme - Mature themes are acceptable, but their treatment must be suitable for young teenagers.

- Language - The use of strong language (eg 'f***') must be infrequent. Racist language used as abuse is also a concern.

- Nudity - Nudity is allowed, but it must be brief and discreet if there is any suggestion of sex.

- Sex - Sex can be suggested. Sex references may reflect what 12 year olds are likely to have heard about from school, but there should be nothing unsuitable for young teenagers. Frequent rude sex references may not be allowed.
- Violence - Violence must not dwell on injuries or blood. Sexual violence may only be implied or briefly and discreetly indicated.

-  Imitable techniques - Dangerous techniques (eg combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on things which can be copied or appear pain or harm free. Easily accessible weapons should not be shown as glamorous.

- Horror - There can be some threat and menace, including scary scenes which are intense or last a while. Only occasional gory moments can be shown.

- Drugs - Any misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be shown as glamorous, or attractive, or teach viewers how to take drugs.

- Discrimination - The film or DVD as a whole must not approve of language or behaviour that would offend a person’s religion, colour, gender, sexuality or disability. Aggressive use of this type of language and behaviour is unacceptable unless it is clearly disapproved of.

5) The BBFC website offers an explanation of every classification it makes and detailed case studies on selected titles. Look at the rating for Blinded By The Light and explain why it was given a 12A certificate for cinema release.

firstly there is a lot of discrimination
There is a scene in which two men are attacked by members of the National Front, resulting in brief bloody injury detail. There are racist references made to 'Pakis' as one character is spat on and made to move from his seat in a restaurant at the request of some racists. Racism is not condoned within the film.
secondly due to its Language
There is infrequent moderate bad language ('wanker') as well as milder terms ('bloody hell', 'shit', 'crap', 'frickin', 'sod', 'Jesus').