Ever wonder how movies get those ratings like “G” or “PG”? Did you know that the “ratings” are actually called classifications?
In British Columbia, Consumer Protection BC is responsible for classifying all general release movies that are shown in theatres in our province. Our motion picture classification team reviews film content so you as the public can make informed viewing choices for yourself and your families. For more information about what we do and what each category means, visit the motion pictures page of our website. You can check out the classification categories (i.e. 14A) of the movie you want to see as well as an advisory which gives you more insight into the content of the film.
In 2009, Consumer Protection BC held a student film competition to produce a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) about film classification. Four individuals/teams went head to head and created some excellent PSAs. Our finalist was Stephanie Blakey whose winning entry was shown on the big screen in movie theatres across BC. Have you seen it before? If not, here’s a link to her winning entry and the runner-ups as well! Everyone did a great job and we love the entries.
- Rated Argyle by Stephanie Blakey – Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design
- Spaces by Tim Laks – Capilano University
- Chloe’s Knight Out by John Oman – Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design
- Kid’s Choice by Jonathan Williams – Capilano University
While I can understand the purpose of classifying films (personally I couldn’t care less what a movie is “rated”) what really bothers me is your powers of censorship. Even though you may not exercise them regularly they are still on the books. In this age of internet downloads and multi-media access not only is censorship useless it is an insult to adult moviegoers who prefer to think for themselves. I am quite capable of being offended without having my life ruined, and explicit sex (with or without violence) has not turned me into an outlaw deviant. As someone with a passion for the art of cinema I strongly oppose the idea of a government panel deciding what is “safe” for the general public regardless of what your individual qualifications may be. The thought of Cinema Cops controlling what is shown on theatre screens and raiding adult stores looking for “official decals” seems hopelessly archaic.
Thank you for your comment. We always welcome feedback and questions. Consumer Protection BC performs a variety of activities outlined in the Motion Picture Act, including classifying films so that British Columbians can make informed viewing choices for their families. We have the challenging task of mirroring the collective community standards of all British Columbians in our classifications and we do get feedback from parents who rely on our classification information.
We appreciate your perspective related to some of our other activities. The DVD decaling program accomplishes a number of things including helping to restrict access to adult films and videos by younger audiences and protecting the industry from piracy. The provincial government continues to maintain responsibility for the law which we enforce. We will pass along your views.