The BBFC classifies films to ensure age-appropriate content for audiences, especially to protect children from harmful material. The classification process involves detailed examinations by multiple examiners who assess various issues such as violence, language, and context before assigning age ratings. Ratings for home media like DVDs and Blu-rays are often more stringent due to the increased risk of underage viewing.

2. The BBFC classify films that are suitable for the correct audience in
terms of their age group. In order to protect children from unsuitable
and even harmful content in films and videos and to give
consumers information they might need about a particular film or
video before deciding whether or not to view it, the BBFC
examines, age rates films and videos before they are released.

3. HOW THE CLASSIFICATION PROCESS
WORKS…
The BBFC watch films and videos all the way through and award an age rating and
insight to each one. Typically, two examiners view a film for theatrical release. In most
cases a Senior Examiner will confirm the examiners’ recommendation. But if the
Examiners are in any doubt or fail to agree, or if important policy issues are involved,
the work may be seen by other members of the Board up to, and including, the Director
and Presidential team. Occasionally they will need to take specialist advice about the
legal acceptability of film content or its potential for harm.

4. CLASSIFICATION PROCESS CONTINUED…
The BBFC look at issues such as discrimination, drugs, horror, dangerous and easily imitable
behaviour, language, nudity, sex, and violence when making decisions. The theme of the work is
also an important consideration. We also consider context, the tone and likely impact of a work on
the potential audience.
The release format of a work has an impact on classification. The BBGC’s decisions on the age
rating of DVDs and Blu-rays can be stricter than at the cinema because there is a higher risk of
underage viewing in the home and a greater potential for watching scenes out of context.

5. This is an example of a certificate that
the BBFC award to the film company,
certifying the age rating which is 18.
so the audience for this film named in
the certificate is specifically targeted
towards anyone that’s aged over 18,
otherwise it’s not suitable for anyone
below the age.