British Board of Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, non-government body, which has been classifying films since 1912 and videos since 1984. There are 7 categories: U, PG, 12A, 12, 15, 18 and R18.

U- Universal is suitable for all ages over the age of four. U films should have a positive moral framework and with any mild violence there should be reassuring counterbalances quickly after. There should be no reference to drugs, discrimination, weapon glorification or dangerous behaviour. Also, only mild references to sexual activities (kissing) and very little bad language. Since children are easily influenced these films should make it clear what is right and wrong, and to try and discourage unwanted behaviours. Recent examples of this classification are High School Musical and The Hannah Montana Movie.

PG- Parental Guidance is suitable for any age, however, it alerts the parents that there may be some disturbing scenes which are unsuitable for younger audiences. The advised age is around 8 as they could cause upset towards the viewer. The film must have no reference to drugs, discrimination, weapon glorification or dangerous behaviour, similar to U films. They are allowed mild swearing only, discrete mentions of sex and can have more adult themes such as crime, as long as they aren’t seen as a positive. One example is Night at the museum.

12A and 12- Both of these have to comply to the same criteria except 12A is only used for cinema. For films that are 12A, an adult must accompany children if they are under the age of 12. There may be some mild passing reference to drugs and dangerous behaviours. Moderate nudity, sexual activities (as long as its not above what the average 12 year old would know), use of language and violence are acceptable. Mature themes may be approached as long as they are done so in a form acceptable to young teenagers. An example of this is Planet of the Apes.

15- Suitable for anyone over the age of 15. Reference to drugs and weapons are allowed, as long as not to glorify them. Strong language is permitted, as is sexual activity. Any themes are allowed to be approached as long as they are in a manner acceptable for 15 year olds. Any type of horror is permitted except sadistic or sexualised. An example of a 15 is the Butterfly Effect.

18- Only suitable for adults. There is no specific guidelines as adults are allowed to watch whatever they please. Exceptions may include: if the material breaches the law, explicit images which are unjustifiable and something that may be a risk to society. Pulp Fiction is an example of an 18.

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R18- Only sold in sex shops to people over the ages of 18. They may not be sold over mail order and may only be shown in specially licensed cinemas. Certain things may not be allowed such as the encouragement of illegal sexual activities for example sex without consent, paedophilia and rape.