1) The BBFC is an independent organisation which is responsible for classifying setting the age restrictions for cinema films. It is a non-governmental body and was founded in 1912.
2) The BBFC uses examiners to decide which rating a film should be given. If there are any issues with a film, cuts are made to alter these problems before distribution occurs.
3) The BBFC considers as variety of factors when rating a film. This includes considering the law, the possible effects actions in the movie may have on different types of people, particularly those of a young age. The target audience also plays a role in regards to the rating of the film. The main issues are, however: sex, violence, sexual violence, imitable behaviour, discrimination, the use of drugs, horror and how strong the language used is.
4) The Dark Knight generated so much media coverage due to the amount of violence included in the film. This was considered to be excessive for the rating it was given as it was not seen as suitable for 12 year olds even if they are accompanied by an adult when watching the film. I have not seen 'The Dark Knight' therefore I'm not sure whether it was a right or wrong decision to award it with a 12A certificate.
4) The Dark Knight generated so much media coverage due to the amount of violence included in the film. This was considered to be excessive for the rating it was given as it was not seen as suitable for 12 year olds even if they are accompanied by an adult when watching the film. I have not seen 'The Dark Knight' therefore I'm not sure whether it was a right or wrong decision to award it with a 12A certificate.
5) The guidelines for a 15 certificate can include:
· strong violence
· frequent strong language (e.g. 'f***').
· portrayals of sexual activity
· strong verbal references to sex
· sexual nudity
· brief scenes of sexual violence or verbal references to sexual violence
· discriminatory language or behaviour
· drug taking
6) Adulthood - This film contains strong violence, extremely strong language, sex references and drug use which is why it was awarded a 15 certificate. However, the violence didn't dwell on the infliction of the pain or injury shown in the film.
