- that works should be allowed to reach the widest audience that is appropriate for their theme and treatment.
- that adults should, as far as possible, be free to choose what they see, provided that it remains within the law and is not potentially harmful.
I decided to research into the categories and the guidelines that the BBFC provide, below I have created a table which lists all of the categories by which our product could fall into;
'Universal'
This film should be suitable for all aged four years and over. They should be set within a positive moral framework. Offering counterbalances to any Violence, Threat or Horror.
'Parental Guidance'
Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. Parents are advised to consider whether content may upset younger or more sensitive children. Mild use of language only, Sexual activity may be implied but infrequent.
'Aged 12 or Over'
Video works classified at '12' may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them. Brief and discreet use of nudity, Sexual activity and infrequent use of drugs or reference to drugs.
'12' only exists for Video Works, no one younger than 12 may rent or buy a '12' rated video work.
'Aged 12 or Over'
12A is a category only exists in cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult. The viewing is the responsibility of the accompanying adult.
'Aged 15 or Over'
The Video work as a whole must not endorse discriminatory language or behavior. References and use of drugs is aloud but must not promote or encourage drugs, Sexual Activity can be portrayed although without strong detail. Use of strong language 'Fuck' and the strongest term 'Cunt' may be acceptable if justified by the context. Aggressive or repetition of the Terms is unacceptable.
'Aged 18 or Over'
Material is in breach of the criminal law, created through the commission of a criminal offense, a risk or harm to individuals through behavior or society and the use of explicit images of sexual activity which can not be justified.
'18 Restricted'
Classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas or sex shops. The infliction of pain which causes lasting physical harm, portrayal of any sexual activity or material which encourages sexually abusive activity.
After researching all of the classifications, I believe our film would be an "18" classification. The classification states that material is in breach of criminal law, through criminal offence, potential risk or harm to an individual, therefore, due to the rape scene in our film, although not showing any sexually explicit material, the intent of a rape, I feel makes our film an "18" classification.
