Certification

U 

What does U mean?

The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four and over.

Is violence or horror permitted in a U film?

A U film may include brief fight scenes or moments where characters are placed in danger. However, moments of emotional stress or threat will be quickly resolved and the outcome will be reassuring.

There may be brief scary scenes and moments where the characters are placed in danger. As with violence, however, these scenes will be balanced by reassuring elements, such as comic interludes or music.

‘Baddie’ characters may carry or use weapons, but there will be no emphasis on these. Child or ‘hero’ characters are unlikely to use any kind of weapon outside, for example, historical settings.

What sorts of films are usually passed at U?

A U film can explore many themes, as long as they appropriate to a young audience. This doesn’t mean that all films rated U are children’s films, some adult themes may be rated as a U but  not exactly a child's film.

A children’s work at U will generally contain positive messages about loyalty, honesty and friendship, particularly amongst children. The film will have a happy ending for the child.

PG

What does PG mean?

PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for all people viewing it, but some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. A PG film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. 

What sort of themes are passed at PG?

No theme is prohibited at PG, as long as it is treated in a way appropriate to the category. PG works can explore challenging issues such as domestic violence, bereavement or racism without upsetting a lot of people.

In a PG work, illegal or antisocial behaviour, such as bullying, will not be condoned or seen to go unchallenged. Smoking and drinking will not be promoted and if child characters are seen smoking or drinking, there should be a clear message that this is bad.

As far as horror goes, we allow some 'jump' moments and scary scenes, but sequences showing significant or realistic violence, horror or threat must not be prolonged.

12A

What does the 12A symbol mean?

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 (eg someone over the age of 18), who must watch the film with them. 

Is there a lower age limit for a 12A film?

No. However, the BBFC considers the content of 12A rated films to be suitable for children aged 12 and over, and we would not recommend taking very young children to see them. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them.

15

What does the 15 symbol mean?

 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.

Are there any limits on what sort of theme a work can have at 15?

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

18

What does the 18 symbol mean?

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.

Are there any limits on what sort of theme a work can have at 18?

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.