The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has published an educational resource that features five films that focus on transgender experiences for families to watch together. The BBFC has partnered with All About Trans, an On Road Media project, on this initiative. The Charity supports people with first-hand experience of the issues to do safer, more strategic media work, bringing them together with journalists and producers to inspire great content.
At the lower end of age rating categories, Little Girl (PG), A Kid Like Jake (12) and Ma Vie En Rose (12) have all been highlighted as films that deal with transgender themes sensitively. For older teens and parents who want to continue learning about other topics, such as trans representation in the media and starting a family, the BBFC has suggested both Disclosure (15) and Seahorse - The Dad Who Gave Birth (15).
All films come with information about the classification, information about what viewers can expect, and accompanying suggested discussion points so families can hold a guided conversation after the credits roll. The BBFC and All About Trans held a focus group, made up of non-binary and trans people and a parent of a trans child, to consult on the films and the resource.
Sarah Peacock, Compliance and Education Manager for the BBFC, said: “Films are excellent springboards for starting conversations. We’ve selected three films rated U, PG and 12 and two films at 15, so there is something for the whole family to pick from, with a range of different themes to explore together. We were delighted to partner with All About Trans on this resource, to ensure that the voices of trans people were accurately reflected in the project. We hope that these films act as a starting point for more research and education.”
Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir from All About Trans, said: “We know it can be hard to find time to sit down with your kids to learn about new issues and ideas. We hope that this resource will open up a space for really meaningful and worthwhile discussions with children and young people about identity, and what it means to explore who you are.” The educational resource can be found on the BBFC website.
