The British Board of Film Classification has recently reclassified several classic films, such asEmpire Strikes BackandLord of the Ringswith higher age restrictions. This comes after new analysis of the films revealed that these films meet the criteria for being scary and violent.
The current certificates of the Board include U (Universal, PG (Parental Guidance), 12A (requires adult supervision), 12 (ages 12 and above only), 15, 18, and R18 (a rating usually reserved for pornography).
BothEmpire Strikes BackandLord of the Rings,alongside other 70s and 80s action films such asRaiders of the Lost Ark,received child friendly ratings despite some of the more violent scenes within the films. However, according toiNews,these films are now being rerated due to these same scenes.
In the case ofEmpire Strikes Back,their Universal rating was changed to a PG due to scenes such as Luke’s hand being chopped off as well as the dismemberment of a Wampa creature. Similarly,The Fellowship of the Ringwas shifted to a 12A rating for its extended edition due to the Orcs and hooded Ringwraiths.
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Raiders of the Lost Arkalso received a 12A as well, due to the decapitation of a German mechanic and the paranormal destruction of the Nazi troops during the climax of the film.
Chris Davies,BBFC’s Compliance Manager, discussed the new ratings withiNews,stating how “This provides a fascinating insight into how people’s tastes and standards change and develop over the years – and will continue to do so in the future. Through research and outreach, it is our role to keep in step with the direction in which society is moving, to ensure our standards meet the expectations of people across the UK.”
Other films, such as the summer blockbusterJaws,have received similar reclassifications. While this does showcase a shifting time in society, these new reclassifications may make it more difficult to showcase these classics of cinema to a new generation.
