The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has reclassified the original 1961 film West Side Story from a PG to a 12 certificate, citing concerns over sexist and transphobic remarks. The decision, which applies to home entertainment releases, marks the first change in the film's rating in nearly 40 years.
The BBFC noted that the film contains 'occasional transphobic marks', believed to refer to the character Anybodys, a 'tomboy' who would now be considered transgender. Other factors include 'moderate violence, sexual threat [and] discrimination', as well as scenes of characters smoking and references to alcohol addiction.
The classic musical, directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins with music by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, has been a PG since 1986. The BBFC updates its classification guidelines every four to five years after public consultation, leading to the re-evaluation.
The reclassification follows a similar move for Wicked: For Good, which received a higher age rating due to magical threats and violent scenes. The BBFC's updated guidelines aim to reflect modern sensitivities around discrimination and harmful content.
