Research into Certificate of Film - 18 Certificate

Source: BBFC

                                       

What does the 18 symbol mean?

Films rated 18 are for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy / rent an 18 rated video. Rated 18 words are highly unsuitable for children.

Are there any limits on what sort of theme a work can have at 18?

No theme is prohibited at 18. Adults are free to choose their own entertainment provided the material is not illegal or potentially harmful, so it is possible some themes tackled at 18 may be offensive even to some adult viewers. For example, offensive material containing strong amounts of racism / homophobia / xenophobia etc. 

What sort of issues might I find in an 18 film or video?

18 works are for adults only and can contain strong issues such as:

·           very strong violence

·           frequent strong language

·           strong portrayals of sexual activity

·           scenes of sexual violence

·           strong horror

·             frequent drug use

·           strong blood and gore

·           discriminatory language and behaviour

If adults can watch what they want, what might be cut from an 18 work?

In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC’s public consultations and The Human Rights Act 1998, the BBFC will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment.

However, cuts are occasionally made to 18 rated films and DVDs. Intervention is most likely in the following areas:

·           In which the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence

·           In which material or treatment appears to us to risks harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – for example, any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual violence which might, for example, make rape look appealing, reinforce the suggestion that victims enjoy sexual violence or which invite viewer complicity in sexual violence.
 

·     Examples of 18 Certificate films: