Certification

Film certification is done to be protective of audiences and consider a broader public opinion. There are legal obligations involved in film classification, which restricts access to material on the grounds of age. Censorship is different to film certification, in which material is cut or prevented access to.

The BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) is a self regulatory body that certifies British film- local councils are in charge of cinemas and have to comply to the BBFC's rules. The Videos Recording Act from 1984 meant that the BBFC classifies home video. They have to note down any dangerous or criminal activities on videos or DVD and are very aware of laws regarding children and animals.
Films are certified based on factors such as level of discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behavior, language, nudity, sex, theme and violence. There are 5 film classifications: U, (universal - suitable for all) PG, (parental guidance) 12/12A, (suitable for 12 years and older) 15, (suitable for 15 years and older) and 18. (suitable for only adults)



Research of film certificates will help us in the consideration of certificate for our film- for example, we may choose 12/12A as our film certificate due to possible action or violence that may be included, as well as the possibility of mild swear words being used. This also links in with the genre of our film, comedy, as there may be conventions of comedy used that do not necessarily fit in below a 12/12A rating.