Certificate research

Certificate Research
When producing or writing a film the producer already has an idea in mind of the certification and rating the film will have. This therefore means when the British board of film classicisation is rating the film the producer is waiting with a desired outcome they hope for. Every film that is released must be viewed by the British board of film classification (BBFC). This will determine the age range of the potential audience. The cost to the distributor is £9.50 per minute of film viewed. An example of when the BBFC have made a judgement which the producer of the film; which in this case is Steven Spielberg, didn’t like the verdict was Star wars. Steven Spielberg had an idea in mind of which age range he wanted to advertise his film at, he wanted younger children and the younger generation to be able to enjoy his film, however, the BBFC decided the film wasn’t suitable and rated it at a higher certification to the one he had hoped for and planned for; for example merchandise and advertising strategies.
Between 1912 and 1932 the only certifications for films were U and A – Universal and Adult.

This means the film industry has excelled and advanced since then as it has gone from having just two certifications to 7.

U FILMS - It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

PG FILM - Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

12 FILMS - Exactly the same criteria are used to classify works at ‘12A’ and ‘12’. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them. Category exists only for video works. No one younger than 12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video work.

The ‘12A’ - category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

15 FILMS - No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

18 FILMS – no-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy a ‘18’ rated video work.

R18 FILMS - The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may be show to adults in specially licensed cinemas and cannot be supplied by mail order.