Frequently Asked Questions about Not-For-Profit Film Screenings

Why are not-for-profit film screenings classified?

All films shown in public in Alberta for an admission fee are classified and this includes films shown by not-for-profit organizations whether they be part of a film festival, fundraisers, or ongoing screenings of film appreciation groups.  Classifying these films allows members of the public the opportunity to decide what entertainment would be most appropriate for themselves and their families and not-for-profit exhibitors to reach the most appropriate audience

Who classifies films shown at not-for-profit screenings?

Films shown at screenings hosted by not-for-profit organizations can be classified by Alberta Film Classification or, under certain circumstances, by the organization hosting the screening.  Many not-for-profit groups have specific audiences whose sensitivities and tolerances may vary from overall Alberta community standards.  Allowing those groups to self-classify the material they plan to exhibit can help to provide a ratings system which suits the expected audience more directly.

All members of not-for-profit organizations who self-classify the material they exhibit must have current training as provided by Alberta Film Classification and adhere to the guidelines for classification in the province.  Should a film already have a classification as assigned by Alberta Film Classification, that classification must be used. 

Not-for-profit organizations are accountable for the classifications assigned to films they have self-classified.  Alberta Film Classification reviews all classifications and reserves the right to request a copy of any film classified by a not-for-profit organization. 

Who is responsible for ensuring classifications are adhered to at not-for-profit screenings

The not-for-profit organization hosting the screening must ensure that all legal requirements of age and accompaniment restrictions are carried out. Ratings should be publicized wherever showtimes are advertised, admission tickets are sold and in any web material created by the organization.

Alberta Film Classification should be made aware of all classification concerns that may arise from not-for-profit screenings. Not-for-profit organizations are accountable for the classifications assigned to films they have self-classified.Should a concern or inquiry about the classification of a film self-classified by the organization arise, the organization is responsible to respond to the party raising the concern and inform Alberta Film Classification of the interaction. Alberta Film Classification is available to assist all organizations in responding to public inquiries.

How can an organization become eligible to self-classify films

Organizations registered as not-for-profit societies in Alberta can request training to self-classify directly from Alberta Film Classification.  Alberta Film Classification will provide training seminars in various centres in the province throughout the year. 

Training must be refreshed once every 2 years and each member of the organization who will take part in the self-classification must have current training.  Organization members must be 18 years of age or older to be eligible to take part in film classification.