Film Classifications and the BBFC

Film classifications are decided and rated by the BBFC (The British Board of Film Classifications). The BBFC are an independent, non-governmental body that has been classifying cinema films since 1912. When the Video Recordings Act was passed in 1984, the BBFC began to classify videos and DVDs. The BBFC classifies films under the categories as follows:

‘U’ or Universal is described as suitable for all. Categorically, a U is aimed at any audience of 4 years and over. A Universal rated film may contain mildly scary scenes, mild threats or menace, mild sexual behaviour (i.e. kissing), and very sensitively dealt with themes.
Examples of films with a ‘U’ rating would be: The ‘Shrek’ Series, Monsters Inc, Casablanca and Mary Poppins.

‘PG’ or Parental Guidance is for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A ‘PG’ film should not upset or cause disturbance to a child aged eight or older. Parents should make the conscious decision as to whether younger or more sensitive children are able to view certain films. In a ‘PG’ film Drug references or Discrimination must be clearly disapproved of or not referred to at all. Sex, Violence and bad language must be very mild and must not be detailed. Themes of a more serious nature should show that such behaviour or actions are not condoned or acceptable.












‘12A’/’12’ are films that are suitable for ages 12 and over. The same criteria are used to rate these films – the only difference being that the ‘12A’ category only exists for cinema films. Anyone younger than 12 years of age cannot view a ‘12A’ film unless accompanied by a responsible adult. ‘12’ and ‘12A’ rated films should not glamorise the misuse of drugs and infrequent moderate physical and psychological threat may be used, as well as dangerous behaviour should not be dwelled on in detail which could be imitated. Moderate language is allowed, however stronger language must remain infrequent. The treatment of themes, sex and violence must be content which is suitable for young teenagers to view.
Certificate ‘12’ films are: The Bourne Ultimatum, The King’s speech, Sherlock Holmes and The Holiday.

‘15’ rated films restrict anyone under the age of 15 viewing one of these rated films in the cinema or purchasing these video works. Discrimination regards that the work as a whole should not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour. Drug taking may be shown but drug misuse must not be glamorised or sanctioned as a whole. Also the use of easily accessible and highly dangerous substances, are unlikely to be authorised under this rating. Strong threats are permitted in 15 rated films; however they cannot be sadistic or sexualised. Dangerous behaviour must not be shown in great detail which could be copied. Strong Language of frequent use is permitted, however, the strongest less-used terms must be infrequent and justified by the context. Sexual activity and nudity may be shown without strong detail. No themes are prohibited, as long as they are suitable for the age restraint.
‘15’ rated films are: The Shawshank Redemption, Gran Torino, Slumdog Millionaire and Hot Fuzz.

‘18’ certificated films are not to be viewed in the cinema or purchased by anyone under the age of 18. Very little is limited at certificate ‘18’ apart from pornographic material, which is warned against with another certificate.
‘18’ films are: Pulp Fiction, Goodfellas, In Bruges, Fight Club and Kill Bill.