BBFC relaxes classification policy on variant DVD releases

The BBFC have decided to change the classification policy which prevents different versions of videos and DVDs being distributed if they are not rated for the same age group.
With the advent of the DVD there has been a growing trend towards the release of alternative versions, or 'Director's Cuts', of successful film titles. These may contain new material not present in the version originally submitted to the BBFC, or simply the uncut versions of films previously cut to obtain a lower certificate (at the cinema and/or on video). In a number of instances these have required a higher age rating than the original, which the BBFC has not permitted. The key concern has been that two versions of the same title would lead to customer and retailer confusion.
The BBFC have now decided to relax this policy. To ensure that there is no confusion between the different versions the BBFC has obtained the agreement of the industry to make the packaging for the new version significantly different from the original and to include clear references to the uncut, or 'Director's cut' versions. The industry has also agreed to ensure that packaging for the higher rated versions is not attractive to under-age viewers. All packaging will be approved by the BBFC to ensure that there should be no confusion between the different versions.
Robin Duval, Director of the BBFC, said: “We know that this change of policy will be very popular with film fans who want to own the uncut versions of their favourite films, or who want to see a film as the director intended it. The industry's agreement to submit all packaging to the BBFC for approval will mean that the different versions will be easily identifiable so that retailers and rental shops can continue to prevent under age viewing, but adult film fans will be able to enjoy their favourite film in full.”
(GB)