2. BBFC Ratings
The BBFC stands for British Board of Film
Classification. It is a non governmental
organisation funded by the film industry
and responsible for the national
classification of films within the UK. It has
a statuary requirement to classify videos,
DVDs and some video games under the
video recordings Act of 2010.
3. o The U symbol stands for Universal.
o A U film should be suitable for audiences
aged four years and over although it is not
possible to predict what will upset particular
children.
o U films will generally contain positive
messages and the overall tone should be one
of reassurance.
o U films are unlikely to contain discriminatory
language or behaviour unless it is clearly
disapproved of.
4. o PG stands for Parental Guidance.
o PG films should be suitable for children
aged eight years and over but may not be
appropriate for younger children.
o It is up to the parent to consider whether
they think the film content will upset their
child.
There may be mild bad language, sexual
references or violence in a PG film.
5. o 12A means that anyone aged under twelve
must be accompanied by an adult when
going to see the film. The A stands for
'accompanied' and 'advisory'.
o The 12 certificate is just for videos, DVDs and
Blu-Rays. 12A is for films at the cinema only.
o A 12 or 12A film may include some
infrequent strong language, discreet sexual
references and moderate violent content.
6. o No one under 15 is allowed to see a 15
film at the cinema or buy/rent a 15 rated
DVD.15 rated films are not suitable for
children under 15 years of age.
o A 15 film may include frequent strong
language, scenes of a sexual
nature, nudity, strong violence, drug
taking and discriminatory language and
behaviour.
7. o Films rated 18 are for adults and are not suitable for
children. No one under 18 is allowed to see an 18
film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated DVD.
o No theme is prohibited at 18. An 18 film may have
content that is seen as offensive by some adult
viewers.
o An 18 film may contain frequent strong
language, very strong violence, strong portrayals of
sexual activity, discriminatory language and
behaviour and strong horror, blood and gore.
