Sex scenes that were once permitted in movies with a 12 or 12A rating are now more probable to be rated 15 under revised guidelines.
The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has observed a shift in public concern regarding the portrayal of sex and nudity in films aimed at viewers under the age of 15.
According to their recent audience research, there is a growing demand for a more cautious approach to scenes that straddle the line between a 12/12A and a 15 rating.
Revised Guidelines
The BBFC conducted its first major audience research in five years, surveying 12,000 people to gauge changing attitudes towards various elements depicted in films, including sex, violence, drug use, and language.
Respondents expressed a preference for stricter guidelines regarding sexual content, especially for films rated 12 or 12A, where sexual activity and nudity must be brief and discreet.
Concerns and Considerations
While sexual activity and nudity may be depicted in 15-rated films, the level of detail is expected to be less explicit. However, audiences seem more accepting of sexual references, particularly in comedic contexts, at the border between 15 and 18 ratings.
Emerging Concerns
Sexual violence remains a primary area of concern for UK audiences, consistent with previous research in 2019. However, the depiction of suicide and self-harm has become increasingly worrisome, now ranking as the second biggest area of concern.
Respondents expressed a desire for warnings about such content, prompting the BBFC to emphasize advisory notices regarding suicide and self-harm.
Shift in Attitudes Towards Violence
In addition to concerns about sexual content, audiences are now more wary of depictions of violence on screen. The BBFC suggests that future ratings may need to reflect this heightened sensitivity to violence across all age categories, indicating a potential need for stricter classification standards.
Adapting to Societal Changes
The evolving concerns highlighted by the BBFC’s research underscore the need for ongoing adaptation to reflect societal shifts in attitudes towards film content. As audience expectations evolve, the BBFC aims to ensure that its classification guidelines remain relevant and responsive to contemporary sensitivities.