Classification

Jessie and I have independently looked at the British Board Of Film Classification website, and our opinions on our classification for our film differ slightly. While Jessie believes that our film will be a Universal rating, I have concluded- as somebody considering what this film would be like as a full length motion picture- would classify the film as a 12A/12 classification. The reasons that my opinion differs to Jessie's are that I am in the mindset of our target market- teenagers; most teenagers will not be instantly drawn to a film less than a 12 classification because they believe that PG and U films are for children and would not draw them to the teen culture that the film portrays. Another reason is that the film itself is about teenage-hood and the difficulties of relationships and, although a Romantic Comedy, will be oriented around teenage culture, which tends not to be a squeaky-clean Universal classification.


According to the website, 12 and 12A classified films have the same criteria. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them.

Discrimination

Discriminatory language or behaviour must not be endorsed by the work as a whole. Aggressive discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable unless clearly condemned. None of our film would contain any aggressive discriminatory language or behaviour.

Drugs

Any misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be glamorised or give instructional detail. Our film would not contain any drug use, however, some mild references would possibly be made in the script for example "She's got me so high on life."

Horror

Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted, provided disturbing sequences are not frequent or sustained. As this is a Romantic Comedy, no horror or threat will be included or referred to in the film.

Imitable behaviour

Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail which could be copied, or appear pain or harm free.  Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised. There would be minimal/no reference to imitable behaviour, however as part of the storyline of the film would be about the break up of a hormone-charged typical teenage couple, some dramatic behaviour may be implied.

Language

Moderate language is allowed. The use of strong language must be infrequent. Moderate language would be expected as this is a film about teenagers. Strong language would not be in the script.

Nudity

Nudity is allowed, but in a sexual context must be brief and discreet. Little/ no nudity would occur. There is a scene in the opening in which nudity would be an issue (the bed scene) but we have assured that our actors are appropriately clothed in pyjamas.

Sex

Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed. Sex references should not go beyond what is suitable for young teenagers. Frequent crude references are unlikely to be acceptable. No crude references would occur, and little/ no sexual activity or references would be included. However, it is important to consider the teenage culture of today. The only scene in our opening in which any sexual connotations would occur is the bed scene, in which our characters are talking and having an innocent pillow fight (fully clothed).

Theme

Mature themes are acceptable, but their treatment must be suitable for young teenagers. The film may feature connotations of mature themes, but nothing unsuitable for 12 year-olds.

Violence

Moderate violence is allowed but should not dwell on detail. There should be no emphasis on injuries or blood, but occasional gory moments may be permitted if justified by the context. Sexual violence may only be implied or briefly and discreetly indicated, and must have a strong contextual justification. The film would not portray themes of violence of any kind, and none would be written into the full film. Our opening contains a pillow fight, which may be seen as violent, but in context gives playful and fun connotations.