Certification

The British board of film certification is an independent, non governmental body which has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and DVD’s since the video recordings act was passed in 1984. The aim of the BBFC remains to bring a degree of uniformity to the classification of film nationally. Today there are seven certificates that are widely used these beginning at universal (U), parent guardian (PG), 12, under twelve’s adult supervision (12A), 18, and restricted 18 (R18).

The means for the BBFC censorship’s and certifications falls upon six main areas of concern. Violence being the most thought about. The decisions being made on the basis of whether it is shown to be pleasurable, as means to a positive solution, or related to sexual action. Language also has bearing on certification the inclusion of foul words f*** and especially c*** is seen inappropriate to certain age groups. Nudity is widely excepted if it appears to be natural and sex is simulated depending on how much is shown is acceptable in 15’s and higher certificates, however if it real its classed as a R18 no exceptions. The use of drugs cause certificates to be higher and depends on the manner in which shown and the amount of glamorisation of the act. Imitation is a major concern for certification the use of weapons that children can get hold of increases the certificate and suicide is a big issue if the means to commit suicide is shown the certificate is raised considerable.

Certification can influence several areas of film. A certificate can limit the access of certain aged audience and so affects the narrative in terms of what and cannot be shown. The theme must be sociable acceptable, the intentions within the film should be widely agreed upon and it needs to made clear that specific views are that of the individuals and not necessarily that of the industry. Audience pleasure is also affected by certification as what shown is limited and may not hold pleasures such a fear, love, and realism. Certification is very important in the film industry today and involves many areas of concern which can influence several areas of film.