The BBFC is responsible for categorizing films into age ratings based on established guidelines that reflect the public's views on acceptable content for different age groups. These guidelines are periodically reviewed and adjusted based on public feedback, which ensures that the classifications are relevant and aligned with societal standards. The classification process involves multiple examiners that assess content for various factors including potential harm, and decisions may be finalized by senior officials if disagreements arise.

1. What is classification?
This is the process in which the BBFC categorize every film to its correct
and specific age rating. All verdicts rely on their ‘Guidelines’ which are
rationalized on a regular basis, and was produced over many years
through much study, many public deliberations and the professional
experience of those that have worked for the BBFC. It is essential that
these classificationstandards are in accordance with the public’s view of
what is acceptable for each age group because this reflects the ‘current
views on film, DVD and video game regulation’.
Thus, every 4-5 years, the BBFC completes a conference in which the
public shares their views on the age ratings of unreleased films and
videos. The reason for this is to see whether the public’s and the BBFC’s
agree on the standards, and if not, the BBFC will further improve their
decision until there is an agreement; the BBFC regularly alters its
standards for whenever the public’s view changes.
Guidelines clarify everything that is suitable for each category from U to
R18. In addition to that, they also provide laws and principles for the
BBFC to practise. There are 2 main principles which are as follows:
i) “to protect children and vulnerable adults from potentially
harmful or otherwise unsuitable content”
ii) “to empower consumers, particularly parents and those with
responsibilityfor children, to make informed viewing decisions”
The guidelines are used by at least two ‘Examiners’ to rate movies that
are of non-fiction genre or theatrical release. The last decision is
generallyconfirmedby a ‘Senior Examiner’, but if there is any confusion,
disagreement, or policy issues involved, the ‘Chief Executive’ and
‘Presidential Team’from the Boardwill finalize it. Moreover, sometimes it
is essential for advice from a specialist to be taken regarding the lawful
suitabilityof a movie’s content or its possible harm towards viewers- one
Examiner usuallyviews DVD’s, especiallywhen watching the DVD edition

2. of a cinema film that has been previously rated. Nevertheless, judgment
may be necessary from other Examiners for more complex motion
pictures.
Furthermore, Examiners review matters of concern such as
“discrimination, drugs, horror, language, imitable behaviour, nudity, sex,
sexual violence, theme and violence” whilst they classify films. To add,
they also think about the background or context, tenor and impact- how
a film makes the viewers feel- as well as the release format. In other
words, due to the fact that DVD’s and Blu-ray’s are viewed at home,
there is a possible danger that young and underage viewers may come
across a product inappropriate for them.
Suitable for all
Parental guidance
Cinema release suitable for 12 years and over
Video release suitable for 12 years and over
Suitable only for 15 years and over
Suitable only for adults
Adults works for licensed premises only