Research: The British Board Of Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, self-governing body that classifies films and DVD's. It was set up in 1912 by the film industry and can now classify DVD's when the video recordings act was passed in 1984. Which means video's that can be brought or rented have to be classified

Classification is making the decision of which age group can watch a particular piece of film. The footage is judged based on how much sex, sexual violence, nudity, imitable behaviour, horror language, drugs and discrimination. Examiners will look at the film and also take into account some of the themes it portrays and may be classified as a higher age if it goes into content. They will also look into how it will make an audience member feel. A team of examiners look at the video or film and judge it on all of the previous content but if not ratified by a senior examiner will be passed up the ranks and can even get to the chief examiner.

Specific guidelines for a film rated a 15

Nobody under the age of 15 is aloud to view a film rated 15 and/or rent or buy a film or DVD from a shop.

The certain guidelines that apply to a 15 rated films are as shown below:

• Discrimination - The film as a whole should not endorse or support discriminatory language or behaviour but can still mention themes of homophobia and racism.
• Drugs - Drugs may be shown in the film but they must not be promoted or encouraged and show in as little detail possible. High ranking drugs are unlikely to be shown.
• Imitable Behaviour - Imitable Behaviour means dangerous behaviour like suicide or abuse. The movie shouldn't focus on the subject and bother factors like the weapon depend on the realism of the movie.
• Language - Strong language is acceptable and very strong language is okay depending on which character is saying it and what context it is in.
• Nudity - Nudity is aloud if it is educational or in normal circumstances. Nudity is aloud in sexual context but not much detail. 
• Sex - Sexual activity is allowed as long as there isn't much detail. Strong verbal sexual references are aloud as long as they have a purpose.
• Threat - Threat is allowed and to a strong content. Prolonged threat that is sexual or sadistic may be not allowed .
• Violence - Violence is allowed but not to focus on the injury or infliction for too long. Strong gory violence is unlikely to be allowed. Strong verbal violence is allowed and it can be sexual but not to dwell on the subject