The King's Speech

12A

strong language. was classified a 15 but brought down to 12A with no cuts after an appeal.

• Historical context.
• strong language is not aggressive, sexual or directed at any person.
• it also occurs in rapid succession and is infrequent.

GUIDELINES
CONTEMPORARY CONTROVERSIES

The Simpsons

2007

nudity, drugs, imitable behaviour, rated "PG"

• it is a recognisable cartoon; "The Simpsons" is known for outrageous jokes that can be read on different levels by different age groups.
• child nudity but no sexual context and again, it's "The Simpsons"

GUIDELINES
CONTEMPORARY CONTROVERSIES

The Exorcist

1973

accused of having psychologically damaging effects on young people. The Festival of Light mounted a campaign against alleged links between teenage suicide and screenings of the film. Was classified with a 'X'. Decision overturned by a number of local authorities.

• the 70s was a time of economic downturn social unrest - people weren't going to just go along with the decision of the BBFC - protests and campaigns made against them.

HISTORY OF FILM REGULATION

Alfie

Lewis Gilbert
1960s

passed uncut even with the theme of abortion.

• showed that public tolerance was increasing and the BBFC was responding to this change.

HISTORY OF FILM REGULATION

The Wild One

Laslo Benedek
1954

concerns about juvenile delinquents delayed classification. Board described the contents as 'a spectacle of unbridled hooliganism'. Repeated attempts to secure classification. Some local authorities overturned the Board's rejection. Riots in English seaside towns were cited as providing justification for the Board's decision.

• BBFC was acting as a censor instead of a classifier.
• era in which the BBFC wanted to be seen as a "protector of public morals".
• BBFC felt that films were the cause of teenage crime - still similar to today, "Harm Test", people are quick to blame films and the media for the behaviour of young people.

HISTORY OF FILM REGULATION

Smiles of a Summer Night

Ingmar Bergman
1956

dialogue cuts made because sex references were considered too risque

• references to sex weren't acceptable in society.
• BBFC was acting as a censor instead of a classifier.
• era in which the BBFC wanted to be seen as a "protector of public morals"

HISTORY OF FILM REGULATION