Age ratings

U: Suitable for all

A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. However, it is

impossible to predict what might upset a particular child, especially at this lower end

of the category range. Films or DVDs with this BBFC insight should raise no significant

issues in terms of discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behaviour, language, nudity, sex, theme or

violence.

PG: A film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for

younger children. A PG film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older.

Parents should consider whether the content might upset younger or more sensitive

children.

12 and 12A: Over 12

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 (e.g. someone over the age of 18), who must

watch the film with them.

Difference between 12 and 12A: The 12 certificate is just for videos, DVDs and Blu-

rays. 12A is for films at the cinema only.

15: No- one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a ‘15’

rated DVD. 15 rated works are not suitable for children under 15 years of age.

No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year

olds.

18: Films rated 18 are for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or

buy/rent an 18 rated DVD. No 18 rated works are suitable for children. No theme is prohibited

at 18. Adults are free to pick their own entertainment within the law, so it is possible some

themes tackled at 18 may be offensive even to some adult viewers.

R18: The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit

works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to

adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in

licensed sex shops. ‘R18’ videos may not be supplied by mail order.