BBFC
The BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) is the independent body that sets age ratings for films and other video content in the United Kingdom.
The UK’s Gatekeeper of Film Content
The British Board of Film Classification, universally known as the BBFC, is a non-governmental organization founded in 1912. Its primary role is to classify films, DVDs, Blu-rays, and video-on-demand content to provide the public with information about its content, particularly regarding themes, violence, language, sex, and drug use. The iconic black card displaying the BBFC age rating is a mandatory sight before any film screening in a UK cinema.
The BBFC Rating System
The board’s ratings provide guidance on a film’s suitability for different age groups. The main theatrical ratings are:
| Rating | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| U | Universal | Suitable for all. |
| PG | Parental Guidance | General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. |
| 12A | Suitable for 12 years and over. A child under 12 may see it if accompanied by an adult. | |
| 12 | Suitable for 12 years and over (for home video). | |
| 15 | Suitable for 15 years and over. | |
| 18 | Suitable for 18 years and over. |
In addition to the age rating, the BBFC provides detailed content advice, formerly known as ‘BBFCinsight,’ which explains exactly why a film received a particular rating. This allows parents and viewers to make more informed decisions about what they watch. While the board has the power to suggest or require cuts to a film to achieve a lower rating, outright banning of a film is now extremely rare.
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