Official Statement From UK Distributor of The Human Centipede: Full Sequence

Posted on June 13, 2011 by Ben 2 Comments

by Ben Bussey

It’s very rare that we just cut and paste the press release when reporting the news here at Brutal As Hell. In this particular instance, however, I felt that was the best thing to do. As I would assume most of you are aware (if not, click here), the British Board of Film Classification last week refused to grant a certificate to Tom Six’s Human Centipede sequel, making it illegal for the film to be bought, sold or otherwise exhibited in the United Kindom. Today, Eureka Entertainment and Bounty Films, who were set to release the film to DVD, give their official response. This follows below.

Press Release on behalf of Eureka Entertainment/ Bounty Films – The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence)

Within the last week, the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) announced that it had rejected and was unable to classify for release on DVD, The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence).

Bounty Films, and its UK distribution partner Eureka Entertainment Ltd., are disappointed by the decision of the BBFC to deny the film a classification certificate. While both companies respect the authority of the board, we strongly disagree with their decision.

In support of their decision, the BBFC issued a press release that gave an unprecedented level of detail regarding certain scenes contained within the film. Whilst it appears customary for the BBFC to issue press releases in support of its decision making, the level of detail provided therein does seem inconsistent with previous releases where the statements have been more concise. We are concerned this may be prejudicial to our forthcoming appeal.

The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence) is adult entertainment for fans of horror films. If a film of this nature does not seek to push boundaries, to challenge people and their value systems or to shock, then it is not horror. The subject matter of this film is in line with not only the genre, but other challenging entertainment choices for adult consumers.

We respect those who have different opinions about both the film and the genre, and whose opinions may differ to our own, but we hope that the opinions of the adults for whom this product is intended will also be considered. The adult consumers who would watch this film fully understand that it is fictional entertainment and nothing more.

Classifying and rating product allows the public to make an informed choice about the art and media they wish to consume. Censoring or preventing the public from obtaining material that has not been proven to be harmful or obscene, is indefensible in principle and is often counterproductive in practice. Through their chosen course of action, the BBFC have ensured that the awareness of this film is now greater than it would otherwise have been.

Having taken advice on these matters, and in accordance with BBFC guidelines, we will be submitting our appeal to the Video Appeals Committee in due course.