Film censor BBFC cracks down on sexual violence and disturbing ‘real-world scenarios’ A crackdown on sexual violence, with tougher age ratings for depictions of rape, was announced by the British Board of Film Classification

Any depiction of rape will be banned in films for under 15s under a major shake up of film censorship rules.

A crackdown on sexual violence in films, with tougher age ratings for depictions of rape, was announced by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).

Graphic sexual violence, rape and pornographic language will be restricted to films for over 18s.

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Concerns over sexual violence

The movie censor has revised its guidelines after a survey of public attitudes found rising concern at children’s exposure to sex and violence, particularly from online platforms.

Keira Knightley’s 2008 drama The Duchess, which was classed as a 12A at the time, would now be made a 15 because it included a rape scene.

More than nine in 10 (91%) of the 10,000 parents and teenagers surveyed said they wanted the BBFC to extend age classification ratings to YouTube and streaming services such as Amazon and Netflix to protect children from sex and violence.

More films to get 18 rating

Audiences have a tolerance of violent scenes, but wanted higher classifications for films and TV shows featuring depictions of rape and sexual assault.

Films with strong sexual references and what the BBFC called “the language of pornography” will now be expected to receive an 18 certificate.

Scenes of sexual violence involving a “gang dynamic,” a protracted build-up of sexual threat and a prolonged depiction of nudity will also command an 18 rating.

‘Real world’ scenarios concern

“Real-world scenarios”, which could happen to them, were found to be the most troubling for young people, who are uncomfortable with portrayals of discrimination, terrorism, self-harm and suicide.

British audiences have changed their views on sexual violence since the last consultation in 2014 – some 95% of teenagers now called for stronger classification, consistent across film, DVDs and streaming.

15 minimum rating for rape scenes

David Austin, BBFC chief executive, said the censorship body “will not be classifying any depiction of sexual violence at 12. We will limit it to 15.”

Mr Austin added: “Over the last five years the way we consume film and video has changed beyond all recognition. We are updating our standards around depictions of sexual violence and very strong sex references to reflect changes in public attitudes.”

Mr Austin said audiences were “much more relaxed about genre violence like James Bond or Jason Bourne.” The BBFC is working with Netflix to ensure that its age classifications are adopted by the streaming service.