Netflix is adding age ratings to more content on its U.K. service after partnering with the British Board of Film Classification. The goal of the new collaboration “is to work towards 100% coverage of BBFC age ratings across the platform,” the ratings board said.
Online services in the U.K. are not required to submit content to the board for evaluation, but Netflix already does so in many instances. About 60% of the SVOD platform’s content in the U.K. is BBFC-classified. “Lost in Space,” for example, is rated 12 (the minimum suitable age), “Stranger Things” 15, and “Sex Education” 18. Acquired films generally already have had a rating applied.
The aim now is to have ratings on all Netflix’s content in the U.K., in part under an arrangement whereby Netflix will tag the content itself in line with the BBFC’s guidelines, which were recently overhauled, notably for graphic sexual content. The BBFC will monitor the classifications to make sure they are being properly applied.
“Our work with the BBFC allows us to ensure our members always press ‘Play’ on content that is right for them and their families,” said Mike Hastings, director of editorial creative at Netflix.
The BBFC ratings appear on the “details” tab on a Netflix show and in an overlay once the title begins to play. A BBFC spokesman said there is the possibility of the ratings symbols assuming a more prominent position on Netflix content over time.
