Film Classifications

The certificates for films are decided by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). This is an independant, non-governmental body which was set up in 1912 for several reasons:

- "we give the public information that empowers them to make appropriate viewing decisions for themselves and those in their care. We help to protect vulnerable viewers and society from the effects of viewing potentially harmful or unsuitable content while respecting adult freedom of choice.

- we provide media industries with the security and confidence of cost-effective, publicly trusted regulation and help to protect providers of moving image content from inadvertent breaches of UK law.

- we are able to assist Trading Standards officers in their enforcement role"


The Categories are as follows:


U - Suitable for all

A 'U' film should be suitable for all audiences ages 4 years and over.
They should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.



PG - Parental Guidance

General vieweing but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
Should not disturb a child aged around eight or over.

12A/12 - Suitable for 12 years and over

Exactly the same criteria are used for these two. The 12A catergory exists only for cinema films as children under 12 cannot see the film unless they are accompanied by an adult.

15 - Suitable for only 15 years and older

Nobody younger than 15 can see a 15 film in a cinema.

Could be due to language use, violence, sexual scenes.. etc.

18 - Suitable only for adults

Nobody younger than 18 may see an 18 film in a cinema.
Again, due to aspects of the content.




R18 - R18 films are only to be shown in specialised cinemas or liscened sex shops and may not be supplied via mail order. Any content is permitted except that which may encourage sexually abusive and illegal behaviour such as paedophilia or rape.

Reference: www.bbfc.co.uk