The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent body funded by the film industry that is responsible for classifying films, videos, DVDs, and some video games shown in the UK. Films are usually classified by at least two examiners using published guidelines, with a senior examiner ratifying most decisions. The BBFC aims to protect the public, especially children, from harmful content while also recognizing adult freedom of choice and empowering viewers to make informed choices. A 15-rated film may contain violence, strong language, and depictions of sexual activity, but not gory scenes or especially strong references to sex.

1. The British Board of Film
Classification
(BBFC)
What is it?
 An independent body funded by the film industry which
is responsible for the classification of films within the
UK.
 They are required to classify videos, DVD’s, movies and
some video games.

2. Their Criteria
 Films are usually classified by at least 2 examiners who
use the published guidelines to reach a decision.
However, in most cases the decision is ratified by a
Senior Examiner.
 If the Examiners are not sure how to rate a film they
address the members of the Board
 DVD’s are usually seen by one Examiner, especially when
the movie had already been classified when it was
released in the cinema.

3. Their Mission
 Protect the public, and especially children, from content
which might raise harm risks.
 Empower the public, especially parents, to make
informed viewing choices
 Recognise and respect adult freedom of choice within the
law
 Work in partnership with the industry to develop
innovative service models to provide content advice
which support emerging media delivery systems.
 Provide an effective service to enforcement agencies.

4. Rating Our Film
 In a 15 rated film you can have violence, strong
language and portray sexual activity to a certain extent.
 Violence is allowed, however the film cannot dwell on
the pain or injury caused by the violence, and not gory
scenes are allowed.
 Language can be strong and used as frequently as
wanted. However, strong swear words such as c****
can be used depending on the manner in which they are
used.
 Full nudity is allowed as long as it isn’t too detailed,
there can be strong references to sex and sexual
behaviour, but especially strong or crude references are
likely to be unacceptable for this rating.
 Drug taking may be shown, but cannot promote or
encourage drug misuse.
 Dangerous behaviour, such as suicide and self-
harming, should not be dwelled on in detail.