BBFC (British Board of Film Classification)
Rated U
The "U" symbol stands for Universal. A "U" film is suitable for audiences aged four years and over. There are no issues featured in the film in terms of discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behaviour, language, nudity, sex, theme or violence. Only very mild bad language is allowed (e.g. ‘damn’ and ‘hell’) Characters may be seen kissing or cuddling and there may be references to sexual behaviour (i.e. to ‘making love’) A "U" film may include brief fight scenes and there may be brief scary scenes and moments where the characters are placed in danger. Rated PG "PG" stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, however some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. A "PG" film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. Some films are given a "PG" certificate but have not been made with a young audience in mind. "PG" films can explore challenging issues such as domestic violence, bereavement or racism. If drugs are mentioned or seen, there should be an emphasise that they are harmful. There may be mild bad language (such as ‘shit’ or ‘son of a bitch’) As far as horror goes, some 'jump' moments and scary scenes are allowed, but scenes showing realistic violence, horror or threat must not be dragged out. Rated 12 & 12A "12A" means that anyone aged 12 or over can go and see the film unaccompanied. The "A" stands for accompanied and advisory. Children younger than 12 may see the film, if they are accompanied by an adult, who must watch the film with them. The 12 certificate is just for videos, DVDs and Blu-rays. 12A is for films at the cinema only. Guidelines state that there may be strong language (e.g. 'f***') at 12 or 12A, but it must be infrequent. There may be nudity in 12A films but sexual nudity should only be brief and discreet. Heterosexual and homosexual sex and sex references are treated the same. At 12A, moderate violence is allowed but it should not dwell on detail. Dangerous behaviour for example hanging, suicide and self-harming may be present in 12 or 12A but not shown in detail. Rated 15 Meaning no-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 rated film at the cinema or buy/rent a DVD. There is no limit on the theme, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year olds. A "15" can include strong violence, frequent strong language (e.g. 'f***') sexual nudity and drug taking. Many horror films are rated 15, there can be strong threat and menace (as long as it is not sadistic or sexualised), although the strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Easily accessible weapons are allowed however must not be glamorised and it should not dwell on pain or injury. Dangerous behaviour such as hanging, suicide and self-harming should not be dwelled on and in great detail which could be copied. Rated 18 Films rated 18 are only for adults and no children. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 rated film at the cinema or buy/rent a DVD. No theme is prohibited at 18 as adults are free to pick their own entertainment within the law. An "18" can contain very strong violence, frequent bad language and can contain strong and detailed horror such as blood and gore. Even though most subjects are allowed at an "18" cuts are occasionally made. (Abbey Mustoe) |