2. ‘Dawn of the dead’
‘Dawn Of The Dead ’was submitted to the BBFC for classification in
June 1979 – seven months after the film was released unrated in
the US.
This horror movie created by Romero. This film ignited debate some
found the gruesome within the film entertaining whereas others,
such as the BBFC found it inappropriate. For example, the film was
seen by six examiners and the then Director of the BBFC, James
Ferman. The examiners did not like the film this resulted in
discussion in regards to the moral framework of the film. One
examiner felt so strongly that the film glorified violence that he
excluded himself from any further screenings or discussions
surrounding the work.
Ferman in particular had argued, the film employed such violence that
was “to a degree never been passed by the Board’
As a result of this the BBFC asked for immediate cuts of such violent
scenes.
3. This then resulted in...
A further re examination after all cuttings
of explicit scenes. After re- examinations
more scenes were ordered to be cut out
as it may have a negative impact on
vulnerable groups.
The BBFC only then insisted on six
seconds of cuts. However, it was in 2003
that the film was finally passed at 18
uncut by the BBFC,
4. The types of Classifications put
forward by the BBFC:
U- A film classified as ‘U’ shows the film is suitable for all.
PG- A film classified as ‘PG’ shows to watch the film one
requires parental guidance.
12A-A film classified as ‘12A’ shows the film should only be
revealed to 12+ children.
15- A film classified as ’15’ shows the audience should be 15+.
18- A film classified as ‘18’ shows one must be 18+ to watch
the film.
