

BBFC Podcast
BBFC
The BBFC is independent and not-for-profit, and we’re here to help everyone in the UK choose age-appropriate films, videos and websites, wherever and however they watch or use them.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 25, 2024 • 5min
BBFC Podcast Episode 121: What you need to know about Venom: The Last Dance
Venom and Eddie Brock return this autumn in Venom: The Last Dance. Before you head to the cinema, you can find out everything you need to know about the film, and who it’s suitable for, in this bitesize episode.

Oct 17, 2024 • 59min
BBFC Podcast Episode 120: In Conversation With Kelly McMahon, Motion Pictures Association
In the latest episode of the BBFC Podcast, BBFC CEO David Austin sits down with his American counterpart, Kelly Mahon, at the Motion Picture Association.
Kelly is the Executive Vice President and Chair of the Classification and Rating Administration for the Motion Picture Association, or MPA for short. The MPA is an American trade association that advocates for the film, television and streaming industry. The MPA established the Classification and Ratings Administration (CARA), which determines the age ratings for films in the States.
In this feature episode, David and Kelly discuss the history, similarities and differences between the two organisations, British and American approaches to classifying content, and a selection of films that present various classification areas.

Oct 3, 2024 • 5min
Episode 119: What you need to know about Joker: Folie à Deux
Dive into the thrilling world of crime drama as the hosts discuss the suitability of Joker: Folie à Deux for older teens. They break down the age rating and provide essential content advice. Explore themes of adventure and rebellion, reflecting on the excitement of stepping beyond the ordinary. With dramatic dialogues and playful references, discover what key issues the film presents before you hit the cinema!

Sep 6, 2024 • 1h 3min
BBFC Podcast Episode 118: Classifying sex on screen with Rowan Pelling
Rowan Pelling, an acclaimed editor and former writer for The Erotic Review, joins the discussion on how the BBFC navigates sexual content classification. She dives into shifting public attitudes towards sex on screen, influenced by movements like #MeToo. The conversation explores controversial scenes from shows like 'Girls', the evolving standards from historical perspectives, and the importance of context in ratings. Pelling also highlights educational initiatives addressing online pornography for youth, advocating for informed discussions around sexuality.

Aug 30, 2024 • 17min
BBFC Podcast episode 117 - An intro to classifying horror films
Dive into the intriguing world of horror film classification! Discover how societal shifts influence reclassifications, like the downgrade of 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' from 18 to 15. Explore the evolution of standards and what it takes for a horror movie to earn its 2024 rating. Delve into the complexities of violence and themes in classics like 'Carrie' and the groundbreaking impact of 'Halloween.' It's a fascinating look at how perceptions of terror transform over time!

May 1, 2024 • 25min
BBFC Podcast episode 116 - Our new Classification Guidelines. Shaped by you.
Chris and Wallis from the Compliance team share insights from their groundbreaking research that influenced new classification guidelines. They discuss how over 12,000 participants shaped understanding of violence, sex, drugs, and language in film. The duo explores innovative methods for engaging young audiences and the evolving landscape of content standards. They highlight specific films like 'Megan' and the Bob Marley biopic, showcasing how audience perceptions can directly impact classification choices and reflect contemporary public attitudes.

Apr 26, 2024 • 40min
BBFC Youth Panel Takeover - Episode Two
A brand new episode of the BBFC Podcast is out today and it is another special Youth Panel takeover!
In the final episode of our two-part mini-series, our Youth Panel explore some classic coming-of-age films that shaped their growing up experience. Some of these include Billy Elliot, She's the Man, The Perks of Being a Wallflower and more.

Apr 11, 2024 • 54min
BBFC Youth Panel Takeover - Episode One
The latest episode of the BBFC Podcast is out now, and this time with a special takeover episode from our brilliant Youth Panel!
In episode one of this two-part mini-series, our Youth Panel dives into some classic coming-of-age films through the decades, and how they feel about them now. We're talking Mean Girls, Ferris Buller's Day Off, Grease, Clueless and more.

Feb 9, 2023 • 51min
BBFC Podcast Episode 113 - Henning Wehn & David Austin
Comedian Henning Wehn discusses poll results and new BBFC ratings’ feature in an exclusive podcast takeover episode.

Oct 25, 2022 • 35min
BBFC Podcast Episode 112 - BBFC Youth Panel's Haunted Halloween Takeover
In this episode, our BBFC Youth Panel chat about scary movie moments that frightened them the most when they were young.
From Toy Story 3 to Coraline, find out what family films from the noughties kept Gen Z up at night.