The Woman in Black Case Study

Key Facts:

• Film: The Woman in Black
• Release: 10th February 2012
• Director: James Watkins
• Theatrical Certificate: 12A with cuts
• DVD Certificate: 15 uncut
• The BBFC receieved 134 letters of complaint following the theatrical release.
• The soundtrack had to be altered in order to decrease the intensity.
• Film makers wanted it to be 12A to attract a much greater audience because Harry Potter fans were likely to be attracted to the film due to Daniel Radcliffe’s main role.

Plot
The film is about a young lawyer who travels to a remote village where he discovers the vengeful ghost of a scorned woman who is terrorizing the locals.

Why was it problematic?

• There are a number of scenes containing supernatural horror. The ghost threatens the main characters as well as locals. However, this threat is generally moderate, the intense scenes are spaced out with less intense scenes to break them up.
• The ghost of the ‘woman in black’ appears to hang herself from a noose, as well as this three young children are shown jumping out of a window.
• A young girl smashes an oil lamp and subsequently bursts into flames.
• A girl coughs up blood after ingesting caustic soda.
• Repeated references to a young boy drowning in a muddy swamp.
• A mother dies during childbirth, which may be frightening for younger audiences.
• Dated uses of the word ‘harlot’ (prostitute).

What had to be cut for the theatrical release? (12A)

• 6 seconds of “strong violence” and “horror” was cut from the entire film.
• Some scenes had to be darkened which meant some of the scarier scenes and visuals were darker and less noticeable, which reduced the impact for the audience.
• Sound levels were reduced and the soundtrack was altered to be less intense.

More Facts:

• Despite many letters of complaint, 89% of the public supported the 12A rating, with only 11% thinking that it should have received a higher age rating.
• The book had appeared on the national curriculum. The BBFC were aware that if they gave a higher certificate, it would mean that some students did not get to see the adaptation of the film. Whereas the 12A rating would allow for a wider audience and those who studied the book (likely in secondary schools) would be able to view the film.
• The BBFC concluded that once the cuts were made for a 12A, viewers over the age of 12 should find the scary moments thrilling, rather than upsetting.