BBFC Rating Research

By law in the UK all films have to have an age rating. The age rate films before they’re released in cinema, and the ratings range from U to 18. It is illegal for a company to try and sell films in cinema or DVD without the age rating sign being present. In theory anybody can watch a U/PG but if under 9 your parents/carers and teachers are encouraged to think carefully about if you do.

When going to watch a 12A, you can watch them if you’re over the age of 12 and if not for an adult to accompany you. This is set there for the adult to make the decision whether you watch anything disturbing or upsetting that could affect you, or they do not want you to see.

The BBFC first came around in the 20th century and was introduced by the film industry before big films came about so that the whole country chose an age rating and was aware of this. The local council of the cinema in your area can still ignore the BBFC rating presented for any film and make their own choice on what age can watch the film.

It is illegal for a company to show an animal being harmed in a movie due to the protection of animal’s law. Disturbing things such as something scary happening have to be noted down by the BBFC, or scenes that could show individuals how to commit a crime for example. Often before a film is finished being filmed the company will send it on to the BFFC for a pre published rating and if they believe it is too high they will remove certain scenes before the finish.