Regulation - BBFC

1) Research the BBFC in more detail: what is the institution responsible for? How is it funded? What link does it have to government? This history of the BBFC page may help.
They are responsible national classification and censorship of films. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is independent, non-governmental and not-for-profit, and has had the responsibility of classifying films since 1912, video tapes and discs since 1985, and more recently, online content.

2) Read this BBFC guide to how films are rated. Summarise the process in 50 words.

They watch the films and many people by themselves and then give their age rating based on the language, nudity and violence. The final decision is made by the president of the company

3) Read this BBFC section on landmark decisions. Why did The Dark Knight generate a large amount of media coverage regarding its certificate? Do you agree with the 12A certificate The Dark Knight was awarded?
Because of the sudden death of the actor Heath Ledger who played as the Joker.

4) What are the guidelines for a 12A certificate - Blinded By The Light's cinema certificate (it was rated 12 for its home video release)?

Films rated 12A are suitable for children aged 12 and over. However, people younger than 12 may see a 12A so long as they are accompanied by an adult. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

5) The BBFC website offers an explanation of every classification it makes and detailed case studies on selected titles. Look at the rating for Blinded By The Light and explain why it was given a 12A certificate for cinema release.

language

There is infrequent moderate bad language ('wanker') as well as milder terms ('bloody hell', 'shit', 'crap', 'frickin', 'sod', 'Jesus').

discrimination

There is a scene in which two men are attacked by members of the National Front, resulting in brief bloody injury detail. There are racist references made to "Pakis" as one character is spat on and made to move from his seat in a restaurant at the request of some racists. Racism is not condoned within the film.