Overarching Factors

Certain factors override decisions when classifying films. These are particularly important when a work lies on the borderline between two categories.

Context:

• Refers to the central issue of the film (sex, language, violence etc.)
• Account for the expectations of the general public as well as the target audience
• Genre (e.g. realistic/contemporary approach may intensify effect, fantasy may soften it)
• The manner of presentation (e.g. aggressive vs. comic language)
• Intentions of film maker (e.g. educational)
• Original production dates (e.g. outdated attitudes may be treated more leniantly in an obviously outdated work)
• Special merits of the work

Tone and Impact:

• More restrictive classification given if the tone is dark/unsettling
• In junior categories important to consider degree of fantasy/connection with real world
• Presentation of desparing view on world/moral perspectives

Release Format:

• Stricter on video works over film - increased possibility of under-age viewing