ABSTRACT
In many ways, it is a mistake to apply the notion of self-regulation in a strict sense to the European film industry. In fact, the regulatory framework for the content of cinematographic art and entertainment – from the first black-and-white theatrical releases to television, video, on-demand movies, and DVDs – has deep roots in the classical models of statutory regulation. A large and diverse body of detailed statutory rules for protection of minors, and consumers in general, has been developed in every EU member state. However, even in the traditional area of classification for theatrical exhibition, national boards have started to move away from censorship and more towards advisory content ratings. The development of the EU audio-visual policy, the Commission’s concern for the protection of minors, and the promotion of self-regulation have started to create a new legal and policy environment.1 Technological changes have also led most classification boards to consider, at least, the role of the Internet, movies-on-demand, new advertising, and DVD/video distribution across EU member state boundaries.
