There are certain overarching factors that may influence a classification decision at any level and in connection with any issue. These factors are of particular importance when a work lies on the borderline between two categories. The guidance set out under ‘The Categories’ should therefore be read in the light of the more general advice offered here and under ‘Main Issues’ and ‘General Principles’.

Context

The context in which an issue (such as sex, language or violence) is presented is central to the question of its acceptability.

When considering context, the following factors, amongst others, may be taken into account:

• the expectations of the public in general and the work’s audience in particular
• the work’s genre. For example, a realistic or contemporary approach may intensify the effect. By contrast a historical or fantasy setting, or comic presentation, may soften the effect
• the manner in which an issue is presented. For example, language used aggressively may be dealt with more stringently than the same terms used in a comic way
• the apparent intention of the film maker, as reflected in its effect. For example, whether the work is intended to be educational
• the original production date of the work. For example, outdated attitudes which might be considered offensive in a contemporary work may be treated more leniently in a much older, and obviously dated, work
• any special merits of the work.

Tone and impact

The overall tone of a work may also affect the classification decision.  While the presentation of specific issues, such as sex and violence, may not be problematic at a particular category, if the work has a generally dark or unsettling tone that may disturb the audience at that category, then it may receive a more restrictive classification. At the junior categories, and on the borderline between categories, such considerations as the degree of fantasy; the level of connection to the real world; and the extent to which the work presents a despairing view of the world or lacks a clear moral perspective may be important factors. The impact of a work (ie, how it makes the audience feel) is also taken into account, for example in relation to horror films where threat may be more significant than violence.

Release format

Classification decisions may be stricter on video works than on film. This is on account of the increased possibility of under-age viewing or game playing recognised in the Video Recordings Act, and of works being replayed or viewed out of context. Accordingly, a video work may occasionally receive a higher classification than on film, or require new or different cuts.