The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) recently conducted a survey of 12,000 people across the UK to gather insights into what matters most to audiences when it comes to film classification. As a result, the BBFC has updated its Classification Guidelines to reflect the feedback received. One of the key changes in the guidelines pertains to sex scenes in films. Audiences expressed concerns about the level of sexual detail, nudity, and duration of sex scenes rated 12A/12 under the previous 2019 guidelines. Consequently, the BBFC has decided to take a more cautious approach to classifying sex scenes at the border of 12A/12 and 15, with similar content now more likely to receive a 15 rating.
Additionally, the research conducted by the BBFC indicated that audiences are increasingly concerned about depictions of violence on screen across all age ratings. While there was broad support for how the BBFC currently classifies violence, audiences expressed unease about how distressing or disturbing certain forms of violence can be. As a result, the BBFC may implement higher ratings for violent content, especially when particularly intense or impactful scenes are present in the film.
Sexual violence remains a significant area of concern for UK audiences, according to the BBFC. However, since 2019, suicide and self-harm have become the second biggest areas of concern, surpassing sex, violence, and drugs. Audiences have communicated a clear desire to be warned about content related to suicide and self-harm, prompting the BBFC to place a greater emphasis on highlighting these themes in its content advice. The BBFC is dedicated to ensuring that its classification system aligns with the expectations and sensitivities of families across the UK.
Natasha Kaplinsky, President of the BBFC, emphasized the importance of staying responsive to the evolving world around us. She noted that society has changed since the last survey was conducted, and opinions have shifted accordingly. The latest Classification Guidelines update reflects the current societal landscape, showcasing the BBFC’s commitment to adapting its standards to meet the needs of audiences. Chief Executive David Austin OBE highlighted the necessity of trust in the BBFC’s classification process, emphasizing the importance of directly engaging with audiences to gather feedback and ensure that content is classified appropriately.
The latest Classification Guidelines from the BBFC mark a significant shift in how sex scenes and violence are classified in films. By listening to audience feedback and adapting to changing societal norms, the BBFC is striving to provide more nuanced and relevant guidance for viewers. As audience preferences and sensitivities continue to evolve, the BBFC remains dedicated to maintaining the trust of families across the UK and ensuring that content is classified in line with their expectations.