What is classification

Classification is the process of giving age ratings and content advice to films and other audiovisual content to help children and families choose what’s right for them and avoid what’s not.

All BBFC classification decisions are based on our published set of standards known as the Classification Guidelines. The guidelines outline the range of content issues we consider, and what is acceptable at each rating from U through to 18 and R18. 

The guidelines are the product of extensive public consultation, research and the accumulated experience of over 112 years of operation. We update our guidelines every four to five years to ensure that our standards continue to reflect the expectations and values of people across the UK. You can read more about our research here. 

For information on submitting content to the BBFC, please go to Industry Services.

The process

The BBFC will view content for classification when it is submitted by a distributor for release in the cinema, on DVD and Blu-ray or Video-on-Demand (VoD). 

Films for cinema release are usually seen by at least two of our Compliance Officers, and in most cases, their age rating recommendation is approved by the Compliance Managers.

If Compliance Officers are in any doubt, if a film is on the borderline between two categories, or if important policy issues are involved, it may be seen by other members of the BBFC, up to and including the Chief Executive, the President and Vice Presidents (known collectively as the Statutory Classifiers). Occasionally, we may also call for expert advice about the legal acceptability of content or its potential for harm.

DVDs and VoD films and series are normally seen by one Compliance Officer, but opinions from other officers, the Compliance Managers, and the Statutory Classifiers may be required for more difficult content.

The issues

Compliance Officers look at issues such as language, discrimination, drugs, horror, nudity, sex, violence and sexual violence. You can read more about how we classify key issues across the age ratings in our BBFC Guides. 

They also consider context, tone and impact – how it makes the audience feel – and even the release format. For example, viewing content in a cinema can be incredibly immersive and impactful, meanwhile there is a higher likelihood of younger people watching more mature content at home on DVDs, Blu-rays and VoD services.