Analysis of Melissa's Work On Film 'Classification'

Melissa's got a really good grasp on the understanding of the necessity for film classification, the difference between 15 and 18 rated films, as well as the role of the BBFC and how it determines the classification of all films available in the UK. Melissa outlines the factors that determine the rating of a 15 thriller, which can only be watched by those aged 15 or above. She state's:

''A film classed as a 15
 It is split into 8 categories:
Discrimination- Work as a whole must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour.
Drugs- Drug taking may be shown but film as a whole musn't encourage drug misuse. Misuse of easily accessible drugs such as aerosols and solvents is likely to be unlikely to be acceptable.
Horror-  Allowed unless sadistic or sexualised.
Imitable Behaviour- Dangerous behaviour is not permitted eg, suicide and self harming. Easily accesible weapons should not be encouraged.
Language- Frequent use of strong language is allowed. The strongest terms for example 'cunt' is only allowed if in context. Repeating the word or using it aggresively is unlikely to be allowed.
Nudity- Allowed but without strong detail. No constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.
Sex- Again, this is allowed but without strong detail, may be strong verbal references but strongest references are unlikely to be allowed unless justified by context
Violence- Strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Strong, sadistic or sexualised violenced is unliely to be acceptable, reference to sexual violence must be discreet and have a strong contextual justification.''

This suggest why thriller films (such as 'The Beach' and 'Body of Lies') are allowed to use graphic language to serve the purpose of the story, as well as a moderate use of violence, including minimal use of blood and guts. It also explains why 'Requiem for a Dream', which includes drug use in hardcore detail surpasses the limits for a 15 rated film and therefore comes under the band of 18 rated films.

Melissa then goes on to describe the rules regarding 18 films and what is deemed acceptable. Melissa explains:

''A film classed as an 18
Adults should be free to choose their own entertainment, although exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
-Where material is in breach of criminal law.
-Where material appears to risk harm to individuals, or to their behaviour to society- for example, violent or dangerous acts which may cause harm to public health or morals. This also may include portrayals of sexualised violence, for example, eroticise or endorce sexual assalt.
-Where there are more explicit  images of sexual activity, which cannot be justified.''      

This extract explains how, whilst there aren't really any limits in regards to 18 films per se it is possible that overly violent and graphic films will not pass under current BBFC laws, banning thrillers such as 'The Human Centipede 2' from UK cinemas, that it didn't pass as entertainment and could provoke similar attacks. Melissa also includes images of the 18 and 15 labels that adorn the covers of all films. Overall, I've found her research very helpful and has given me a greater understanding of film classification.