Regulation BBFC
1) Research the BBFC in more detail: what is the institution responsible for? How is it funded? What link does it have to government? This history of the BBFC page may help.
The BBFC has been responsible for classifying films since 1912, video tapes and discs since 1985, and more recently, online content. They help people in the UK choose age-appropriate films, videos, and websites. They regularly ask people all over the country for their opinions on what's suitable for families and children of all ages.
Local councils still have the final say on films, even though the BBFC makes the initial decisions. They can approve films that the BBFC rejected, ban films that the BBFC approved, and even change the age ratings for films shown in their area. However, most local authorities have trusted the BBFC's decisions since the 1920s. The BBFC is funded by fees from film distributors, like advertising and certification.
2) Read this BBFC guide to how films are rated. Summarise the process in 50 words.
The BBFC's classification decisions are made by the Chief Executive, the President, and the two Vice-Presidents who ultimately take responsibility. They typically watch DVDs individually, which is known as 'solo viewing'. Movies intended for theaters are classified by pairs of people. Teams are assigned to view controversial or extreme content in order to gather a variety of opinions.
The 12A rating caused a lot of attention in the media and received numerous complaints from the public. Many people believed that the violence depicted in the film was too intense for the 12A category. There were concerns about certain scenes and the implication of violence, which had a strong impact on some viewers, resulting in 450 complaints. Personally, I think the film should have been rated 12 instead of 12A because it deals with intense themes and implications that may not be suitable for anyone younger than 12. However, I do agree that it shouldn't have been rated higher, as the guidelines followed were based on public opinions. Additionally, it's worth noting that out of the 450 complaints, only around 45 individuals had actually watched the film with children. This suggests that the surge in complaints was largely due to the controversy surrounding the ratings.
4) What are the guidelines for a 12A certificate - Blinded By The Light's cinema certificate (it was rated 12 for its home video release)?
12 racist language and behaviour, moderate bad language
The film contains occasional moderate bad language like 'wanker' and some milder terms such as 'bloody hell', 'shit', 'crap', 'frickin', 'sod', and 'Jesus'.
In one scene, two men are assaulted by National Front members, leading to a brief depiction of bloody injuries. Racist remarks are directed towards "Pakis", with one character being spat on and forced to change seats in a restaurant by racist individuals. The film does not support racism.
Furthermore, there is a scene where two men are assaulted by members of the National Front, leading to a short moment of bloody injury. The attackers also make racist remarks, referring to someone as "Pakis". One character is even spat on and forced to leave his seat in a restaurant due to the request of these racists. However, it's important to note that the film does not support or endorse racism in any way.
- Films classified as 12A and video works classified as 12 are not suitable for children under 12.
- Children under 12 can only watch a 12A film in a cinema if they are accompanied by an adult.
- Adults should consider if a 12A film is appropriate for a child under 12 before taking them to see it.
- To help make a decision, it is recommended to check the content advice for the film in advance.
- The films and video works should not promote dangerous behavior, discrimination, drug misuse, excessive bad language, explicit nudity, explicit sexual activity, sexual violence, or excessive violence.
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