BBFC Cover Work

1.From where does the BBFC get its funding?
The BBC get their funding from their Film Distributers..
2. What types of texts do the BBFC classify?
The BBFC clasify texts such as Films/Cinema and Videos.
3. What are the problems / issues that the BBFC must deal with when classifying material? Look at the types of things they classify, ability to account for all types of content, changing context etc.
The promblems and issues the BBFC must deal with when classifying material are, Racial issues, Sexual Violence, Drugs and Vilence and Weapons.
4. Note the range of classification categories and what they mean e.g. U, PG, 12A etc.
'H' - an advisory certificate telling the public that a film has a horror theme and is not suitable for children
'X' - No children under the age of 16 are allowed to see an 'X' film.
'12' - Children under 12 cannot view the film in the cinema.
'U' - Universal- All ages are admitted as there is nothing unsuitable for children.
'15' - Children Under 15 cannot view the film in the cinema.
'12A' - Anyone under the age of 12 must be accompanied with an adult.
'PG' - All ages are permitted to watch the movie but it is advised that parents are with them.
'18' - Only suitable for those 18 and over.
5. Look at how different themes /content within texts are classified. Make notes. Why might a DVD featuring content of skateboarders and BMX bikers performing dangerous stunts be classified as 18 but a film containing a sex scene and use of the ‘f’ word only get a 15 rating?
The BBFC's current guidelines identify a number of specific areas of concern which are considered when awarding certificates or requiring cuts. These are theme, language i.e. profanity, nudity, sex, violence, sexual violence,harmful actions. The BBFC also continues to demand cuts of any material which it considers may breach the provisions of the obscene publications act or any other legislation. Some of these materials in films that are in 15 rated one like sexual activity might not breach the pulbications act and thats why its rated at 15 compared to possibly lighter ones like bike moves that are rated at 18.
6 . Why might a film be given a rating of 15 upon release at the cinema but 10 years later be classified as a 12?