Research: The British Board of Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification, abbreviated as the BBFC and previously known as the British Board of Film Censors, was founded in 1912 and designates age ratings to films. This ensures that inappropriate, possibly harmful, content is not shown to the wrong audiences.

On the BBFC's website, they state;

"In order to protect children from unsuitable and even harmful content in films and videos and to give consumers information they might need about a particular film or video before deciding whether or not to view it, the BBFC examines and age rates films and videos before they are released. This independent scrutiny prior to release ensures the highest possible level of protection and empowerment."

There are six genres of classification;

 UNIVERSAL - SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES

 PARENTAL GUIDANCE

12 OR 12A - SUITABLE FOR 12YRS AND OVER (12A allows adult supervision) 
 15 - SUITABLE FOR 15YRS AND OVER
 18 - SUITABLE ONLY FOR ADULTS
 R18 - ONLY SOLD FROM LICENSED SOURCES

For a film to be rated 15, it must not condone discriminatory behaviour, but may contain themes of racism, sexism, homophobia, etc. Similarly, drug use can be depicted, yet not actively supported. Strong adult themes such as suicide or murder cannot be explored in a depth that can allow for it to be copied, and explicit language may be permitted, depending on the circumstances presented in the narrative (who is saying the profanities to whom, the frequency with which it is used, etc.). Nudity and sex are permitted in an educational context, or less than graphic detail, and may not be used in a derogatory way. Threat and horror are permitted, excluding a sadistic or sexual kind; violence cannot be shown for a prolonged amount of time, and, in the case of sexual violence, must not be overly exaggerated.