Certifications in film

Certification

Certification will help me when making my film opening as it will make me think if my film content is appropriate for my target audience. If it isn’t the BBFC will up the age rating of my film. This would make my film lose profit and won’t be as popular as it would have been. This is ,because my target audience wouldn’t be able to see my film, which would make my film a total failure. For this reason when I am making a plot for my film I will have to strictly make sure that I stick to my chosen certification otherwise it may be changed which could affect if my audience will be able to see my film.

Universal- all ages can view this. there is almost nothing unsuitable for young children. References to illegal drugs or drug misuse must be seen rarely or must have a clear educational purpose or anti-drug message. dangerous or anti-social behaviour which young people may copy must be disapproved of and there should be no weapons which are realistic shown. Discriminatory Language or behaviour is unlikely to be shown in this category,

Parental Guidance- All ages are allowed to view this, however there may be certain scenes which can been deemed unsuitable for young children. It may include mild language however not used frequently. it may include mild sex/drug references as well as moderate violence if it is justifiable.

12A- This category is applies for cinemas. it is considered to be unsuitable for young people. for someone under the age of 12 to watch the film they must be  accompanied my someone aged 18 or over. the film may include mature themes like mild drug use moderate language, moderate violence, sex references and nudity. it is rare to see frequent strong language and sexual violence, however if used there must be a justification for it.

12- Only people 12 and above are allowed to watch films in this category. This isn't for cinema's.The film may include mature themes like mild drug use moderate language, moderate violence, sex references and nudity. it is rare to see frequent strong language and sexual violence, however if used there must be a justification for it.

15- Only people 15 or above are allowed to watch this film. Films in this category contain adult themes, Strong language, strong sex references, nudity and hard drugs. sexual activity may be shown without strong detail. sexual violence may be shown if not significant and is justified.

18- Films in this category are only suitable for people aged 18 or over. films in this category have no restriction for the amount of strong language used. hard drug use is usually allowed this is also the case for explicit sex references with detailed sexual activity. very strong and gory violent scenes are allowed as well as strong sexual violence however this can't be graphical.

Films are put into categories to stop people from all ages being disturbed in any way.  this is why the hypodermic needle theory can be dangerous .An example of the negative affects of watching a film you shouldn't be able to view is the Jamie Bulger case. Two young boys watched 'child's play', an 18, then went out and killed an innocent child. this is why Certifications in film is very important.