Sex scenes in films with a 12 or 12A rating may now receive a 15 rating under new guidelines, according to the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). The BBFC conducted its first major audience research in five years, surveying 12,000 people to understand changing attitudes towards sex, violence, drug use, and language in movies.
The research revealed that viewers are increasingly concerned about the amount of sex and nudity accessible to viewers under 15 years old. As a result, the BBFC is considering a more cautious approach to borderline 12/12A and 15-rated films when it comes to sex scenes. While a 12 rating requires viewers to be over 12 years old, a 15 rating allows for sexual activity with less detail and brief nudity, usually in a comic context.
Furthermore, the survey showed that audiences are more relaxed about depictions of cannabis use and solvent misuse in films, leading the BBFC to adopt a less restrictive approach to such content. However, concerns about the normalization of bad language, especially terms with sexual or misogynistic connotations, may lead to higher age ratings.
BBFC President Natasha Kaplinsky emphasized the organization’s commitment to adapting to societal changes, stating, “Since we last asked people across the country what they thought about our standards, society has changed, and opinions have followed – it’s fascinating how this vast body of new research reflects this.”
The research also highlighted continued concerns about depictions of sexual violence on screen, with suicide and self-harm rising to the second biggest area of concern since 2019. Moving forward, the BBFC may require higher ratings for violence across all age groups to address these issues.
