THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT (2012)

THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT is a romantic comedy about a couple whose wedding plans are put on hold after a series of unexpected events prevent them walking down the aisle. The film was classified '15' for strong language, sex and sex references.

The BBFC's Guidelines at '12A'/'12' state 'The use of strong language (for example, 'fuck') must be infrequent'. The film contains over 20 uses of strong language, meaning it is more appropriately classified at '15' where the Guidelines state 'There may be frequent use of strong language'.

The film also contains two strong sex scenes. Although there is no nudity in either scene, the focus on sexual mechanics exceeds the type of brief and discreet portrayal of sexual activity that is permitted by the Guidelines at '12A'/'12'. However, the scenes are allowable at '15' where 'Sexual activity may be portrayed without strong details'. There are also a number of strong sex references, including a scene in which a chef holds a piping tube between his legs and mimics the act of masturbation, culminating in cream spurting out all over his shirt and face. There is also a verbal exchange in which the word 'peonies' is deliberately pronounced in manner suggestive of a strong sexual act. These references are most appropriately classified at '15' where the Guidelines state 'There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour'.