Advice viewings
It may be useful for companies to receive an indication of the category a work is likely to receive in advance of a finished version being assembled and, if relevant, what changes might be required to obtain a particular category.
The BBFC therefore offers an advice viewing service. Such viewings may take place inside the BBFC or at an outside venue by agreement.
Advice offered is not binding the BBFC reserves the right to reach a different decision when the work is submitted for classification in its final form. This may occur if the finished version is significantly different in terms of content and where the finished version (particularly if released in cinemas) has a stronger impact than was evident from the advice viewing.
What can/can't I submit?
Works may be submitted on DVD/Blu-ray, as computer files or on film. Although works must be playable, they need not meet the same technical specifications as works submitted for formal classification and may display on screen logos and other text. Although the BBFC will accept advice submissions in black and white and/or with incomplete sound and picture, the lower the quality of the version submitted the less helpful any advice given may ultimately be.
The BBFC will also consider scripts for advice.
Any works submitted for advice do not need to be retained by the BBFC and may be collected by the customer upon request following the classification decision. Any advice submissions not collected will be retained for 2 months, after which time they will be destroyed.
How do I submit?
Companies who wish to submit a work, or part of a work, for an advice screening should make an entry on the BBFC Extranet as normal.
In order to submit a work please make an entry on our extranet service.
If you do not have an account you may request one here.
How much does it cost?
Advice viewings are charged at a lower fee. Full details are available here.
Is there anything else I need to consider?
Advice viewings are usually seen within three working days and advice will normally be sent via email or via telephone shortly after viewing.
The BBFC does not issue any formal paperwork or certificate for works seen for advice.
Where changes are made to a work in line with the advice given (eg in order to achieve a particular category) the fact that such changes have been made, together with a clear indication of their nature, will be published on the Board’s website when the finished version is eventually classified.
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